Here’s Where Beauty Lovers Shop for Skin Care in Person

The Enduring Appeal of In-Person Skin Care Shopping

In a digital age dominated by online shopping, in-person skin care shopping remains an integral part of the beauty retail experience. Recent research involving over 600 NewBeauty readers has shed light on where beauty enthusiasts prefer to shop for their skin care products. The findings reveal that while online options are convenient, nothing beats the tactile experience of browsing in-store.

Sephora and Ulta Lead the Pack

According to the survey, Sephora stands out as the top destination for in-person skin care shopping, with a remarkable 64% of respondents choosing it as their go-to location. Ulta closely follows with 59%, showcasing the robust competition between these two beauty giants. This allegiance to specialty beauty retailers signifies a clear preference for curated selections of premium products that shoppers often seek. For a deeper dive into what each retailer offers, explore Sephora’s and Ulta’s extensive collections online.

The Role of Department Stores and Targets

Though prestige beauty retailers dominate, department stores maintain a steady presence, with 31% of respondents still opting to shop there. Meanwhile, Target is not to be overlooked, with 26% of shoppers gravitating toward its convenient offerings. The blend of luxury and accessibility found at these retailers caters to a diverse audience, successfully blending upscale selections with budget-friendly options.

Drugstores and Specialty Retailers Remain Relevant

Survey responses also indicate that drugstores like CVS and Walgreens account for 19%, reflecting their strategy of providing practical options for everyday skin care essentials. Additionally, specialty skin retailers hold steady at 13%, suggesting that some consumers still appreciate niche markets focused on unique products and personalized experiences. These findings underline the diverse preferences among skin care shoppers.

Specific Product Preferences

The survey also delved into specific product preferences, revealing interesting insights. When it comes to moisturizers, Sephora emerges as the staple with 44% of responses, while Ulta captures 34% of the cleanser market. Notably, "Other" retailers—such as department stores and brand boutiques—lead the way in serums, garnering 41% of the votes. This highlights a potential inclination towards personalized purchasing experiences for products that are seen as high-performance. When it comes to face mists, Sephora again takes the lead with 38%, reinforcing its status as a destination for trend-driven beauty purchases.

The Craft of In-Person Shopping

While the rise of online shopping is undeniable, this data indicates that in-person beauty shopping is far from obsolete. The tactile experience of swatching products, the instant gratification of leaving with a new purchase, and personalized consultations from beauty experts contribute to the enduring popularity of brick-and-mortar stores. Many shoppers appreciate the ability to physically experience products and receive tailored recommendations, making in-person shopping a unique and valuable experience.

Conclusion

The findings from the NewBeauty survey serve as a reminder that while online shopping offers unparalleled convenience, the allure of in-person skin care shopping remains strong. Sephora and Ulta dominate for a reason—they provide comprehensive beauty experiences that resonate with consumers. As such, the shopping behavior of beauty enthusiasts reflects a strategic approach, leveraging various retail destinations based on product type. Whether you’re seeking luxury, accessibility, or expert advice, there’s undoubtedly a place for in-person beauty shopping in today’s market.

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