Beauty supply stores have long been a go-to destination for individuals looking to enhance their beauty routine with high-quality products, professional-grade tools, and expert advice. In the U.S., the beauty supply industry is a thriving sector, offering a wide range of cosmetics, skincare products, haircare treatments, and other personal care items. Whether you’re shopping for everyday essentials or looking for specialty products, these top 10 beauty supply stores provide customers with an extensive selection of beauty solutions.
In this article, we will explore the top beauty supply stores in America, focusing on what makes each one stand out in a competitive market. From industry veterans to newer players, these stores are leading the way in customer satisfaction, product offerings, and convenience.
1. Sally Beauty Supply
Overview
Sally Beauty Supply is one of the largest beauty supply retailers in the U.S., with over 3,000 stores nationwide. Known for catering to both professionals and consumers, Sally Beauty Supply offers a wide range of haircare, skincare, nail care, and cosmetics products. Their commitment to providing both salon-quality products and affordability has made them a top choice for beauty enthusiasts.
Why It’s Popular:
Wide Selection: Sally Beauty carries a broad range of beauty products from well-known brands as well as exclusive in-house lines.
Professional Products: The store is known for offering salon-grade haircare and beauty tools, which appeals to professionals and at-home users alike.
Loyalty Program: The Sally Beauty Rewards program lets customers earn points on every purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts and special offers.
Affordable Prices: With frequent sales and discounts, Sally Beauty offers quality products at affordable prices.
Popular Products:
- Hair dye and coloring supplies
- Professional hair tools (hair dryers, straighteners, etc.)
- Skincare and makeup products
- Nail care essentials
- Styling products
2. Ulta Beauty
Overview
Ulta Beauty is one of the largest beauty supply retailers in the U.S., offering a wide range of beauty products, including high-end and drugstore brands. Ulta has become a beloved destination for beauty shoppers, with its expansive product selection, frequent sales, and an exceptional loyalty program that rewards customers with exclusive discounts.
Why It’s Popular:
Extensive Product Range: Ulta carries everything from high-end luxury skincare and makeup brands to affordable drugstore products, making it a versatile shopping destination.
Salon Services: Ulta Beauty also features an in-store salon where customers can receive a variety of beauty treatments, including haircuts, facials, and makeup services.
Loyalty Program: The Ultamate Rewards program offers customers points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for discounts, exclusive offers, and birthday gifts.
Convenience: With both in-store and online shopping options, Ulta makes it easy for customers to find exactly what they need.
Popular Products:
- Skincare brands like Clinique and Philosophy
- Makeup brands like Too Faced, MAC, and Urban Decay
- Haircare products from brands like Redken and Matrix
- Fragrance lines from Dior and Chanel
- Salon services and gift cards
3. Sephora
Overview
Sephora is a global beauty retailer with a significant presence in the U.S. Known for its sleek, modern stores and vast selection of luxury beauty products, Sephora has become a leader in the beauty industry. Offering high-end skincare, makeup, and fragrance lines, Sephora provides a luxury shopping experience for beauty lovers.
Why It’s Popular:
Premium Product Selection: Sephora is renowned for its carefully curated selection of luxury brands, including high-performance skincare and professional-grade makeup.
Beauty Advisors: The store employs trained beauty advisors who can offer personalized recommendations and help customers with makeup application, skincare routines, and more.
Beauty Insider Program: Sephora’s rewards program offers tiered benefits, including free products, discounts, and exclusive events for members.
Try Before You Buy: Sephora allows customers to test out products in-store, making it easier to find the perfect match for their skin tone or hair type.
Popular Products:
- Makeup from brands like Fenty Beauty, Tarte, and Huda Beauty
- Skincare from brands like Drunk Elephant, La Mer, and Kiehl’s
- Fragrances from brands like Tom Ford and Jo Malone
- Haircare products from brands like Olaplex and Living Proof
- Beauty tools like makeup brushes and skincare devices
4. Beauty Bay
Overview
Beauty Bay is an online-based beauty retailer that has become a favorite for beauty enthusiasts looking for both popular and niche brands. With an emphasis on inclusivity, Beauty Bay has established itself as a go-to destination for high-quality beauty products, offering everything from skincare to makeup and tools.
Why It’s Popular:
International Brands: Beauty Bay offers a diverse range of beauty brands, many of which are hard to find in physical stores in the U.S.
Inclusive Beauty: Beauty Bay emphasizes inclusivity, with products catering to a variety of skin tones, hair textures, and beauty needs.
Online Shopping Convenience: As an online retailer, Beauty Bay provides customers with easy access to their products with fast shipping options.
Frequent Sales: Beauty Bay regularly holds sales and promotions, allowing customers to stock up on their favorite beauty products at discounted prices.
Popular Products:
- Makeup brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills and Morphe
- Skincare products from The Ordinary and Pixi
- Tools like makeup brushes and facial rollers
- Haircare brands like OUAI and Briogeo
- Beauty boxes and gift sets
5. The Body Shop
Overview
The Body Shop is a beloved global beauty retailer that focuses on ethically sourced, natural ingredients in their skincare, haircare, and bath products. With a strong commitment to sustainability and cruelty-free products, The Body Shop has built a loyal customer base around its eco-friendly mission.
Why It’s Popular:
Ethical Products: The Body Shop is known for its commitment to using natural, cruelty-free ingredients, which appeals to customers seeking ethical beauty choices.
Global Reach: The Body Shop has a significant U.S. presence, offering in-store and online shopping options with a diverse product selection.
Sustainability Efforts: The Body Shop has made strides in sustainability, including using recyclable packaging and sourcing ingredients responsibly.
Inclusive Beauty: The brand emphasizes inclusivity, offering products suitable for all skin types and tones.
Popular Products:
- Body butters and lotions
- Skincare products like cleansers, toners, and moisturizers
- Bath products like shower gels and scrubs
- Haircare items such as shampoos and conditioners
- Makeup products like lipsticks and foundations
6. Cosmoprof
Overview
Cosmoprof is a professional-grade beauty supply store catering primarily to beauty professionals, but it also serves the general public. Offering a wide variety of products for hair, nails, skincare, and cosmetics, Cosmoprof is a go-to destination for those seeking high-end beauty supplies for both salon and personal use.
Why It’s Popular:
Professional-Grade Products: Cosmoprof provides salon-quality products for both consumers and professionals, ensuring customers have access to the best tools and supplies.
Wide Product Range: The store offers a diverse selection of beauty supplies, including products for hair color, skin treatments, and nail care.
Online Shopping: Cosmoprof’s online store allows for easy ordering and delivery, making it convenient for both beauty professionals and consumers.
In-Store Services: Many Cosmoprof locations offer beauty advice, consultations, and product recommendations for professionals in the industry.
Popular Products:
- Hair dye and coloring supplies
- Professional-grade hair styling tools
- Skincare and anti-aging products
- Nail care products
- Salon equipment
7. CVS Pharmacy
Overview
CVS Pharmacy is one of the largest pharmacy chains in the U.S. and offers an extensive beauty section in its stores. Known for its accessibility and wide product range, CVS provides everything from skincare to makeup to haircare, making it a go-to destination for everyday beauty supplies.
Why It’s Popular:
Convenient Locations: CVS has thousands of locations across the U.S., making it incredibly easy for customers to pick up beauty essentials while running errands.
Affordable Beauty Products: With a range of drugstore beauty products, CVS offers quality at an affordable price point.
Exclusive Beauty Brands: CVS carries exclusive beauty brands, such as the CVS Health skincare line and various in-house beauty products.
Rewards Program: The ExtraCare Rewards program provides customers with discounts, special offers, and personalized coupons.
Popular Products:
- Skincare from brands like Neutrogena and Olay
- Makeup from Maybelline and CoverGirl
- Haircare products from Pantene and Herbal Essences
- Health and wellness beauty products
- Nail care and accessories
8. Rite Aid
Overview
Rite Aid is another popular pharmacy chain that also offers a wide range of beauty products in-store and online. Known for its health and wellness focus, Rite Aid offers quality beauty products at competitive prices.
Why It’s Popular:
Convenient Access: With thousands of locations, Rite Aid is easily accessible for beauty shoppers looking for quick picks.
Diverse Product Range: Rite Aid carries both drugstore brands and premium beauty products, offering a wide range of skincare, makeup, and haircare solutions.
Loyalty Program: Rite Aid’s Wellness+ rewards program provides customers with discounts and promotional offers on beauty products.
Popular Products:
- Skincare from Aveeno and Neutrogena
- Makeup from L’Oréal and Revlon
- Haircare products from Garnier and Aussie
- Health and beauty supplements
- Over-the-counter beauty remedies
9. Target
Overview
Target is a nationwide retailer offering a wide range of beauty products. With a focus on affordable and accessible beauty, Target has become a favorite shopping destination for beauty lovers seeking both high-quality and budget-friendly options.
Why It’s Popular:
Wide Variety: Target offers a diverse range of beauty products from both drugstore and higher-end brands.
Affordable Prices: Known for its budget-friendly options, Target makes beauty accessible without sacrificing quality.
Target Circle Rewards: Customers can earn 1% back on purchases and enjoy exclusive discounts on beauty products through Target’s loyalty program.
Popular Products:
- Skincare from Cerave and Olay
- Makeup from e.l.f., NYX, and Sonia Kashuk
- Haircare from Pantene and SheaMoisture
- Nail care and beauty accessories
- Fragrances and wellness products
10. Walmart
Overview
Walmart is one of the largest retailers in the world, offering an extensive selection of beauty products in-store and online. Known for competitive pricing, Walmart is a go-to for budget-conscious beauty shoppers.
Why It’s Popular:
Affordable Prices: Walmart offers some of the lowest prices on beauty products without compromising quality.
Convenient Shopping: With thousands of locations nationwide and a robust online platform, Walmart makes beauty shopping accessible to all.
Wide Selection: Walmart carries both drugstore and salon-quality products, giving customers a wide range of choices.
Popular Products:
- Skincare from Neutrogena and Aveeno
- Makeup from Maybelline and CoverGirl
- Haircare products from L’Oréal and Suave
- Fragrances and personal care items
- Beauty tools and accessories
Conclusion
The U.S. beauty supply market is full of options, each offering unique products and services to meet the needs of beauty enthusiasts. From the professional-grade selections at Cosmoprof and Sally Beauty to the luxury brands at Sephora and Ulta Beauty, these top 10 beauty supply stores have earned their reputation by providing quality products, exceptional customer service, and competitive prices. Whether you’re a beauty professional or a casual shopper, these retailers ensure that you have access to the best beauty supplies on the market.
