With its clean ingredients, social impact mission, and a surge of popularity on TikTok and YouTube, Thrive Causemetics has quickly gone from a niche beauty brand to a household name. Now that it’s available at select Ulta Beauty locations and online, the buzz around Thrive has only grown. But the question remains: Is Thrive Causemetics actually worth the hype at Ulta, or is it just another trendy beauty brand riding a wave of marketing? In this honest review, we break down what works, what doesn’t, and whether it deserves a place in your cart.
The Brand at a Glance: What Makes Thrive Different?
Thrive Causemetics isn’t just about looking good—it’s about doing good. The brand’s motto, “Beauty with a Purpose,” reflects its mission: for every product purchased, Thrive donates to women in need, including survivors of domestic abuse, cancer patients, and those experiencing homelessness.
Key selling points include:
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free
- No parabens, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances
- Clinically proven ingredients
- Social impact-driven model
This conscious approach to beauty is appealing, but performance still matters. Let’s see how their products stack up.
Standout Products That Live Up to the Hype
1. Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara™
This tubing mascara is the reason many shoppers try Thrive. It’s smudge-proof, flake-free, and builds impressive length and definition. It removes easily with warm water—no tugging required—and is ideal for sensitive eyes.
Verdict: 100% worth the hype
Comparable to salon lash extensions minus the cost or maintenance.
2. Brilliant Eye Brightener™
This cream-to-powder highlighting pencil is designed to make your eyes look more awake. Use it in the inner corner, brow bone, or waterline for instant brightness.
Verdict: A great multi-use tool
Subtle but effective, perfect for no-makeup makeup days or layering with bolder looks.
3. Buildable Blur CC Cream™
This CC cream offers SPF 35 and medium-to-full coverage with skincare benefits like vitamin C, collagen, and antioxidants. It gives a natural, soft-matte finish that blurs imperfections and evens tone.
Verdict: Best for mature or dry skin types
It may not satisfy oily skin lovers, but it’s a strong performer for those who want makeup that acts like skincare.
4. Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner™
This eyeliner glides on like a gel but dries to a long-lasting, budge-proof finish. Bonus: it comes with a built-in smudger and sharpener.
Verdict: A solid staple
Great for tightlining, smoky eyes, or everyday wear. It holds up against high-end rivals.
Where Thrive Falls Short
While Thrive’s core products are impressive, there are a few caveats:
- Shade range limitations: For complexion products like CC cream, the range is more inclusive than some brands, but still not as broad as major players like Fenty or Tarte.
- Lack of variety: The product lineup is curated, which some shoppers may love, but if you’re seeking colorful palettes or bold lipsticks, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
- Limited Ulta availability: As of now, Thrive is not in all Ulta stores, which makes in-store shade matching and product testing a challenge for some shoppers.
What Shoppers Love Most at Ulta
According to Ulta Beauty customer reviews and online feedback, shoppers appreciate:
- The clean formulas and skin-loving ingredients
- The social mission behind the brand
- The high-performance mascara and multitaskers
- The sleek, minimalist packaging
Many customers also mention that Thrive products are ideal for mature skin and everyday makeup routines, favoring a more natural look.
Final Verdict: Is Thrive Causemetics Worth It?
Yes—especially if you value clean beauty with a mission. Thrive Causemetics delivers on its promises with standout products like the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara™ and Brilliant Eye Brightener™. While its curated selection and limited availability may not satisfy every makeup junkie, the brand’s core lineup performs exceptionally well for everyday, fuss-free beauty.
Worth the Hype: ✅
- If you love clean, minimal makeup
- If you’re shopping for sensitive skin
- If you support brands that give back
Not for You: ❌
- If you want bold colors, full glam, or expansive palettes
- If you prefer shopping in-store and need shade matching help
As Thrive continues expanding its presence at Ulta, it’s clear that this is more than just a fleeting trend—it’s a feel-good brand with performance to match.