Ulta Tipping Guide – How Much to Tip at Ulta Salon

If you’ve ever wondered how much to tip your stylist at Ulta, you’re not alone. Tipping feels tricky, but it’s just a way to say thank you for good work. Below you’ll find easy numbers, when to add a little extra, and why the tip matters.

General Tipping Rules

For most services – haircuts, blow‑outs, or basic color – 15‑20 % of the total bill is a safe range. If a $50 haircut brings you a fresh look, a $7‑$10 tip does the job. For higher‑priced services like a $100 hair color, aim for $15‑$20. You can round up to the nearest whole dollar; it’s quick and the stylist appreciates the gesture.

When you book a package (e.g., cut + color), calculate the tip on the combined price, not each part separately. This keeps the math simple and ensures the stylist gets a fair share of the total work.

Special Cases and Extra Tips

If your stylist goes above and beyond – extra layers, a stubborn curl, or a last‑minute change – add a few dollars. A $5‑$10 bonus shows you noticed the extra effort. Same goes for senior stylists or master colorists; their expertise often commands a higher tip.

For add‑on services like deep conditioning, keratin, or a scalp massage, treat each as its own bill. A $30 conditioning treatment deserves about $5‑$6, even if it’s done alongside a haircut.

Cash is still the easiest tip method at Ulta counters. If you prefer card, give the tip when you sign the receipt – just double‑check the amount before you approve the total.

Team‑based services, like a manicure paired with a pedicure, can be tricky. If two people work on you, split the tip evenly or give a little more to the primary tech. The front desk can help direct your tip to the right hands.

Remember, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it builds goodwill. Stylists rely on tips for a big part of their income, so a fair tip helps keep the service quality high.

Next time you’re at Ulta, use these quick numbers and you’ll never feel unsure again. A small gesture goes a long way – and you’ll leave the salon feeling good about both your look and the tip you left.