Tip of the Day #5: Quick Guide to Reward Programs

It seems that nearly every place you buy beauty products nowadays has its own reward program - and they probably do. How can you keep all the cards, points, and discounts straight? Here's a little guide outlining the customer reward programs of a few of the places you may shop at often if you're on a budget.

CVS/pharmacy - CVS ExtraCare

The ExtraCare program system is great for those who love shopping at CVS, and works on rewards called "Extra Bucks." You'll receive 2% back with every in-store and online purchase, along with additional Bucks on certain advertised items weekly. You'll also save more money with your membership card on weekly ad items. Membership is free and you can sign up online.

Every three months, your Extra Bucks will print on your store receipt to use on your next purchase - but you can check and print them at any time online. If you use CVS as your pharmacy, you'll also get an Extra Buck for every two prescriptions purchased. Being a loyal shopper REALLY pays off here!

Sally Beauty Supply - Sally Beauty Club

This membership requires a payment of $5.00 per year. Intended for non-professional customers, members receive a discounted price on every non-sale item purchase in the store. Once a member, you'll also be able to sign up for a special newsletter containing info on extra savings, samples, and product news. It's a shame you have to pay, but the price is relatively low, at least. :) If you're a frequent shopper, it will definitely pay for itself in no time.

Sephora - Beauty Insider

I'm guessing the only way you haven't heard about this program is if you have never stepped foot in a Sephora store! The sales associates really love to advertise it. :)

Sephora's free Beauty Insider program rewards one point for every dollar spent in-store or online for purchases. When a member reaches 100 points, the member can choose from a selection of deluxe beauty product samples. (From my own experience, the selection is limited, but changes every few months. The samples are also quite nice in size and quality, and often come from high-end brands.)

In addition, if you place an order online within 14 days of your birthday, you'll receive a free gift! You can also obtain it without a purchase by visiting a store and presenting your Beauty Insider card. Just make they know it's your birthday!

ULTA - The Club at ULTA

The free reward program at ULTA is based on your spending during four different earning periods throughout the year, while using your ULTA card for purchases. You can earn "reward certificates" depending on your level of spending, which can be redeemed for free products or salon services. The levels increase by $50 increments and are as follows:

• Level 1: Spend $50 per earning period
• Level 2: Spend $100 per earning period
• Level 3: Spend $150 per earning period
• Level 4: Spend $200 per earning period
• Level 5: Spend $250 per earning period
• Level 6: Spend $300 per earning period

And, of course, members can enjoy special offers and coupons all year. Refunds and returns are deducted from your account, and certificates do have expiration dates - so use it or lose it! :)

Walgreens

Walgreens has a rewards program, I believe, but it is brand-new at the moment. I'll update with information when I learn more about it.

As far as I know, Rite-Aid and Longs Drugs do not currently have their own reward programs. If they do, please let me know! I'm sure you're already aware that we don't really have those stores around here. ;)