Women are often told their sense of hyper-awareness is paranoia. But for many, that vigilance stems from lived experiences, from uneasy walks home at night to discomfort in something as routine as taking an Uber during the day.
You can even find guides on how to do basic errands “as a woman,” such as grocery shopping or commuting, which says a lot about the reality women live in.
Recently, one woman’s shopping trip to Ulta showed how “relaxing” in public is rarely a good idea.
A scary Ulta shopping trip
TikTok creator Colleen Shehan (@colleensheehan7) shared a video after visiting an Ulta in Tampa, near a Target and HomeGoods.
She had planned to film a haul of “acne safe” products, but instead ended up shaken by what employees told her. Her clip has more than 35,800 views.
“I went in there just to get some of my new products and more makeup,” she said, explaining she even had her Notes app open to stay on track. After about 45 minutes inside, she headed to the register. That’s when things took a turn.
According to Shehan, the cashier looked at her and said, “Don’t move, don’t react. The cops are coming to escort you. There’s been a man that’s been following you around for like 45 minutes.”
She recalled having noticed him earlier while grabbing something from a low shelf.
“I go and stand up and like turn my head to look behind me and he’s like standing there,” she said. At the time, she brushed it off—until employees confirmed he had been banned before but kept returning.
“I’m so mad at myself because I’m usually so hyper aware,” she admitted. “The one time I wasn’t, like this happens. Honestly, I just feel really violated.”
Commenters empathize with her
In the comments, users praised both Shehan’s awareness and the Ulta staff for stepping in.
“I was once 13 years old walking maybe 5 blocks home when I felt someone behind me,” one person shared. “Your brain doesn’t always perceive someone as an immediate threat, but that’s probably what kept you safe.”
Others questioned the store’s handling of a man they allegedly knew about. “So they know he’s done this before but they let him in anyway???” one user asked.
Another, who said they used to work at Ulta, explained, “For the employees’ safety they never wanted us to confront these people. Instead call the cops and let them handle the situation!”
Another pointed out the frustration many women feel: “1. Shout out to the staff. 2. This is EXHAUSTING for women ugh.”
@colleensheehan7 Ladies be aware of your surroundings. It’s so annoying that we even have to live like this.
♬ original sound – Colleen Sheehan
The Mary Sue has reached out to Colleen and Ulta Beauty for official comment.
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