The partnership between Target and Ulta Beauty, launched in 2021, created a unique opportunity for consumers to access premium beauty products within the familiar Target shopping environment. This collaboration integrated Ulta Beauty shops into Target stores and linked the two companies' loyalty programs. One of the primary benefits of this partnership was the ability for customers to receive free beauty products by linking their Target Circle and Ulta Beauty Rewards accounts. However, consumers should be aware that this partnership has a defined end date, and specific free product offers are often limited-time promotions.
The Target and Ulta Beauty Partnership
In 2021, Target and Ulta Beauty established a partnership to create "Ulta Beauty at Target" shops inside select Target stores and online. This collaboration allowed Target shoppers to purchase premium beauty brands during their regular shopping trips. The partnership also enabled customers to combine the benefits of both stores' reward programs. According to a statement from a retail consultant, this partnership provided Ulta Beauty with increased exposure to younger shoppers and those who purchase beauty products only occasionally, while offering Target customers access to a wider range of beauty products.
The partnership is scheduled to conclude in August 2026. As the end date approaches, consumers may find that specific promotional offers, such as free beauty freebies for linking accounts, could be discontinued before the official partnership end.
How to Receive a Free Beauty Product by Linking Accounts
For a limited time, Target offered a free beauty product to customers who linked their Ulta Beauty Rewards account to their Target Circle account. This promotion was available to participants who created a new account. The offer did not work with existing linked accounts; it required the creation of a new account to be eligible for the free product.
To redeem this offer, participants were instructed to: 1. Navigate to the relevant offer page on the Target website or app. 2. Select the option to "Link Accounts." 3. Create a new Ulta Beauty Rewards account or sign in to an existing one to complete the linking process. 4. Visit the Target Circle Deals section and locate the offer in the bonus section. 5. Select one free item from the available choices to add to their order.
Available Free Products
The specific free products offered through this promotion have included a selection of mini and full-size items from well-known beauty brands. Based on past promotions, eligible free items have included:
- Bumble and bumble. Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer (regular price $16)
- Clinique Mini Moisture Surge 100 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator Mini (regular price $17)
- FIRST AID BEAUTY Ultra Repair Cream (regular price $18)
- Origins Checks & Balances Face Wash (regular price $15)
- Fenty Snackz by Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Hella Thicc Volumizing Mascara (regular price $19)
Promotions of this nature are typically available for a short period. For example, one such offer was valid only through August 30th. Consumers interested in these freebies should monitor Target Circle offers for current availability.
Other Ways to Get Free Samples at Beauty Retailers
Beyond the Target and Ulta partnership, consumers can find free samples and trial-size products through other beauty retailers' programs.
Ulta Beauty
In-store, Ulta Beauty customers can request samples of products they are interested in. This allows shoppers to test products for allergic reactions and personal preference before purchasing a full-size item. Online, Ulta offers free samples with purchases and provides special offers, a free birthday gift, and bonus point rewards to members of its email list.
Sephora
Sephora provides free samples with online purchases. Customers typically receive three free samples with each order. Sephora also offers beauty deals, including limited-time markdowns and exclusive offers with promotion codes. By registering for the Beauty Insider loyalty program, customers can receive free deluxe samples and gifts on their birthdays. Points earned through purchases can eventually be redeemed for larger samples or full-sized products. In Sephora stores, customers can also ask for samples of products they are interested in.
General Free Sample Opportunities at Major Retailers
Some major retailers, including Target and Walmart, offer free samples through online forms. These opportunities often require customers to fill out a short form about their shopping habits. After submitting the form, the free samples are typically delivered by mail within three to five weeks.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Target and Ulta Beauty has provided a convenient way for consumers to access premium beauty products and receive free items through linked loyalty accounts. While the partnership is set to end in 2026, limited-time offers for free beauty products may still appear. Consumers can also explore free sample programs directly through Ulta Beauty, Sephora, and other major retailers by joining loyalty programs and watching for online promotions.