Dear Ulta team,
I am writing to share my experience at your store and specifically with one of your employees. I visited your store in search of a waterproof, non-transferable makeup to cover up my acne scars for a wedding. As someone who has been on a long journey to heal my skin (currently on accutane), it was a vulnerable moment for me to ask for help.
Unfortunately, the employee that approached me was less than sympathetic. She made me feel ashamed of my skin and proceeded to lecture me on the need for a breathable foundation. Which may be true, however I was looking for foundation for a wedding. This is my first time seeking body make up and I am unfamiliar with products that are offered. When it comes to foundation I have been informed by my dermatologist what to use, as I am under professional care. I did not need a lecture from a sales employee and her delivery was poor. She then asked me to lift up my hoodie and show my back where the scars were. When I showed her my back to explain what I wanted to cover, she made a disgusted face and gasped. She then proceeded to say “ oh thats going to difficult” and showed me 1 product her reaction was rude and condescending. It was clear she was judging me for the current state of my skin. I was hoping she would have mentioned a few brands or products to help me but she did not. This happened in front of my sister along with other customers.
I left your store feeling more insecure than when I arrived. As someone who has struggled with acne, it's difficult to summon the courage to seek help, only to be met with such a dismissive attitude. In my opinion, it's unacceptable for an employee working in sales for makeup to not be sympathetic to all skin types and want to help those looking to boost their confidence.
I ultimately bought the product she recommended because I didn't know any other options and felt like I needed it. But I wanted to make sure you knew that I was extremely dissatisfied with my experience. No one should be made to feel bad about their skin, especially by someone who is supposed to be an expert in helping customers.
I hope you will take my feedback seriously and consider how you can train your employees to be more understanding and supportive of all customers. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Disappointedly,
Taylor