ulta

What's better than an inexpensive blowout? A free one. On Thursday, April 5, Ulta stores around the country are offering complimentary Fekkai blow-outs (yep, that's free). This offer lasts only from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., so plan accordingly. You'll be able to choose between a Silky Straight or Full Blown Volume service. Plus, drop $25 or more on Fekkai products, and you'll go home with a free sample of the brand's Brilliant Glossing Cream. Can't wait until next week for a perfect hairstyle? Get blowout tips to use at home.

Butter London fans, get excited. The 5-year-old nail polish brand, which previously could only be found in limited distribution through apothecaries and boutiques, just got a whole lot easier to purchase. Earlier this month, seven Nordstrom stores began carrying the line with plans to expand to more stores next year. (But there's always online.) And that's not all; Ulta's also in on the action, stocking approximately 60 percent of the line in 30 of its stores, with plans to branch out to more locations come Spring. Also coming our way next year will be a Victoria Beckham-inspired polish, a bubblegum-pink color named VB. Are you pumped that Butter London's going to be easier to find? I know I am.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are over, but today is College Tuesday at Ulta. For today only, all Ulta stores are offering 20 percent off for people who flash their university IDs. Even if you're not a student, you can still score the deal; just go online and enter the code 24999 at checkout for the same 20 percent discount. And don't forget to join our Beauty Bargains group for all the latest coupons, codes, discounts, and deals. Have at it!

Source: Flickr User Eli Hodapp

When it comes to the adult version of kids in a candy store, do you get your fix from the beauty juggernauts of Ulta or Sephora? And when it comes down to making the choice between these two powerhouses, which one do you typically choose? According to NPD research, 29 percent of 25 to 34 year olds go for Ulta, while 30 percent shop at Sephora. It's a close call. Sephora has always been known for its prestigious, upscale approach to beauty. But is the well-rounded Ulta giving Sephora a run for its money?

With 331 stores, Ulta is lauded for its one-stop shopping and easy-to-get-to locations, which are often found in strip malls. Many shoppers prefer the convenience of being able to buy both lower- and higher-end items, along with the accessibility of an in-store salon. While Ulta has had a discount vibe in the past, stores have become more polished over the past few years. On the flip side, if it's a hot item, Sephora almost always has it first. With 230 stores nationwide (along with 140 retail areas in JC Penney), the beauty giant is pretty much the originator of the concept of bringing together prestige brands under the same roof. Which experience do you prefer?

Sources: Eli Hodapp and Mrkathika

It's not uncommon for salons to charge $250 for blowout classes, but beauty store powerhouse Ulta is changing that by offering up two free (yes, free) hairstyling workshops throughout the month. To reserve your spot, call 1-800-968-5823 or head to the company's location finder. What's more, first-time guests will receive 30 percent off hair color or a $30 haircut at the salon. Interested? Check out the schedule for dates and times:

Turn Up the Volume

• July 11: 10 p.m.–12 p.m.
• July 12: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• July 18: 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Tame Your Mane

• July 19: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• July 25: 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
• July 26: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• August 1: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.