What to Gift Your BFF from Ulta Beauty, Based on Their Online Persona

From chronically online trendsetters to offline classics lovers, discover the ultimate Ulta Beauty gift guide for every type of best friend.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Created on

If you’ve ever scrolled through gift guides, you know most don’t get one essential thing right: your best friends are not all the same. The beauty lover who recreates TikTok looks daily wants something completely different than your low-key, totally offline friend who would not recognize a viral product if it landed in her lap. With Ulta Beauty’s huge collection—from iconic staples to the internet’s favorite launches—it’s possible to find absolutely perfect gifts, matched to each BFF’s unique digital attitude.

Whether your BFF is chronically online, a social media cleanser, a casual fan, or just impossible to shop for, this Ulta-centric holiday gifting guide will check off everyone in your group chat. Pour yourself a cozy drink, pull up your holiday list, and get ready to browse the buzziest, most joyful, and classic gift ideas for every digital demeanor.

Table of Contents

For the Chronically Online

They’re the ones forwarding you memes, decoding every TikTok trend, and probably can recite the latest Viral BeautyTok hack in their sleep. For the BFF who scrolls her FYP first and last every day, only the most on-trend beauty picks will do.

  • NARS Afterglow Liquid Blush Duo
    Universally loved and viral on every corner of the beauty Internet, this set brings together two full-sized shades: Orgasm (the beloved peachy-pink) and Bubbly (a rich mauve). Both deliver dewy, glowy flushes and are powered with vitamin E and sodium hyaluronate for skin that looks fresh and hydrated.
  • Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plumping Gloss
    Hailed as the internet’s consistently top-rated lip product, this gloss blends the benefits of plumping, high shine, and lasting moisture, thanks to maracuja oil, açai extract, and hyaluronic acid. It’s layerable, plush, and ticks every box for a viral-worthy lip finish.
  • Tree Hut Season of Splendor Gift Set
    A scrub trio exclusively at Ulta Beauty, offering lush self-care. Each scrub combines sugar crystals with shea butter and six nurturing oils to exfoliate and nourish. Your online-obsessed friend can show off their glowing skin on Stories after using these cult-favorite formulas.
  • Benefit Cosmetics So Eggstra Brows
    This adorable, grocery-themed brow trio (exclusive to Ulta) includes everything needed for statement arches: the Precise, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+ for volume, and Fluff Up Wax for that feathery, model-off-duty look. It’s TikTok-ready!
  • MAC Golden Girls Mini Lustreglass Lipstick Vault X 12
    The ultimate unboxing experience: 12 mini Lustreglass Sheer-Shine lipsticks encased in a gold vault (no wrapping required). Each shade glides on with comfort, a glossy finish, and is enriched with shea butter, jojoba oil, and raspberry-seed oil.

Bonus Tip: Wrap their gift in bold packaging for extra story-sharing potential. Consider pairing with a cute phone grip or mirror for that beauty-on-the-go lifestyle.

For the Social Media Cleanser

Some friends actively avoid the endless scroll. Maybe they’re focusing on self-care or just need a break–either way, they appreciate tried-and-true beauty classics and best-sellers that don’t rely on trends or tutorials.

  • Tarte The Award Winners Best-Sellers Set
    This award-winning duo features the legendary Shape Tape Concealer (famed for its full yet flexible coverage) and a brand new shade of the iconic Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump. Both provide effortless, everyday glam with no learning curve required.
  • MILK MAKEUP Ready to Jelly Cooling Water Jelly Tint Gift Set
    With a blend of fun textures and hydrating ingredients, this set delivers a refreshing jelly tint for cheek and lips. Perfect for a fresh, wellness-inspired routine that feels more like a treat than a task.
  • Clinique Ready, Set, Refresh: Hydrating Skincare & Everyday Makeup Gift Set
    Curated for comfort and ease, this duo covers hydration and classic makeup finishes, making it ideal for the minimalist or offline queen prioritizing self-care.
  • First Aid Beauty Head-To-Toe-FAB Kit
    Travel-friendly, gentle, and endlessly soothing, this collection is built for uncomplicated skin TLC—no trends or steps needed. Thoughtful, luxe, and always appreciated.

When gifting to someone who values classic comfort over the latest viral moment, choose sets that do double duty for skin and mood. Consider adding a candle or journal to complete the offline-at-home vibe.

For the Casual Beauty Enthusiast

This BFF dabbles: they appreciate good beauty but don’t live and breathe for every trend. Their ideal gift is something fun, functional, and flexible—simple enough for quick routines but chic enough for special occasions.

  • JoyBright by Ulta Beauty Beauty Box: Y2Cutie
    Packed with an on-trend palette and everything needed for a playful look, this set is as joy-inducing as its name suggests. It makes a statement in anyone’s collection.
  • Too Faced Lashes Ever After Mascara Set
    Delivering big, fluttery lashes, this set includes bestselling Too Faced formulas. It’s perfect for effortless drama—at brunch or on a night out.
  • Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray
    For bouncy hair that lasts all day, this spray is a staple, especially for fine-haired friends. Adds volume and grip with zero crunch, and is a stylist favorite.
  • Grande Cosmetics Lash & Brow Power Pair
    This powerful duo supports fuller lashes and brows. The casual beauty lover will feel instantly elevated with minimal effort and maximum payoff.
  • Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set
    For gentle, beautiful curls minus damage, this easy-to-use kit is cozy enough for sleep and delivers salon looks after only a few hours. Great for the friend who loves looking put together without fuss.

Insider Hint: Add a cute hair clip set, silk scrunchies, or some spa-inspired sheet masks as a stocking stuffer for a complete, thoughtful bundle.

If You Have No Clue: Opt for a Gift Card

Whether you’re shopping last minute or your BFF is notoriously picky, sometimes the best present is the gift of choice. An Ulta Beauty Gift Card allows anyone to explore and pick what they’re truly craving—be it a cult fragrance, luxe skincare, or a new multi-styler. It’s quick, never the wrong shade, and always fits.

  • Physical or Digital Delivery: With email options and festive packaging, you can cover all time zones and schedules.
  • Personal Touch: Pair with a handwritten note, a cute makeup bag, or a DIY beauty coupon for a thoughtful twist.
  • Flexible Amounts: Suitable for big gifts or stocking-stuffer budgets alike.

Gift cards are especially perfect for:

  • Long-distance friends
  • Those who love shopping online
  • Friends with ever-shifting wish lists

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I choose a beauty gift that matches my friend’s personality?

Think about the beauty habits your friend displays (online or offline): do they talk about trending brands, prefer reliable classics, or seem to enjoy quick/easy routines? Browse this guide’s sections to find gifts that align with their style.

Are all these products available at Ulta Beauty?

Yes, all the featured products and sets are available at Ulta Beauty, some as exclusives. Check online for the most current selections and availability, as holiday sets may sell out quickly.

What are some universally safe gifts if I don’t know my friend’s beauty preferences?

Body care gift sets, nourishing lip balms, hydrating sheet masks, and gift cards are always safe bets. Choose items with broad appeal, gentle scents, or travel-friendly options to suit most skin and style types.

What makes beauty gifts from Ulta special?

Ulta Beauty carries a blend of viral sensations, timeless crowd-pleasers, exclusive holiday kits, and budget-to-luxe options. This lets you shop based on your friend’s personality, beauty expertise, or wish list.

How can I add a personal touch to a beauty gift?

  • Write a handwritten card with a custom beauty tip or inside joke.
  • Add a small accessory like a cute scrunchie or makeup pouch.
  • Bundle a few smaller items to create a custom mini spa kit.

Table: Ulta Beauty Gift Ideas by Digital Persona

Persona TypeGift IdeasWhy They’ll Love It
Chronically OnlineNARS Afterglow Blush Duo, Tarte Maracuja Lip Gloss, Benefit So Eggstra Brows, MAC Mini VaultOn-trend, viral essentials; social-media approved
Social Media CleanserTarte Award Winners, Milk Makeup Jelly Set, Clinique Skincare Set, First Aid Beauty KitMinimal steps, gentle routines, trusted best-sellers
Casual Beauty EnthusiastJoyBright Beauty Box, Too Faced Mascara Set, Bumble & Bumble Spray, Grande Lash & BrowQuick but fun; classic picks with modern flair
Tricky-to-Shop ForUlta Beauty Gift CardUltimate flexibility and choice

Pro Tips for Gifting from Ulta Beauty

  • Check Ulta’s seasonal promotions for bundled sets and gift-with-purchase offers.
  • Consider creating a personalized bundle from different categories—mix makeup, skincare, and haircare.
  • If you’re late, digital gift cards are perfect and can be delivered instantly.
  • Sign up for Ulta’s rewards program to earn points on your purchases (hello, future savings!).

Wrap-Up: Celebrate Their Style—and Yours

No two best friends—digital or analog—are the same. With Ulta Beauty’s enormous, expertly curated selection, you can celebrate the individual quirks, habits, and beauty dreams of everyone in your inner circle. Happy gifting!

Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete