Review of lash extensions at The Best Beauty, Century Square

** Updated 17 Feb
Bought the deal for 2 Pax Barbie Doll Eyelash Extension & Perm from JuzToday and intended to redeem it together with my BFF. When calling to book appointments, the staff insisted that they do not run lash extension deals for 2 Pax. And secondly, though the deal stated no surcharge for redemption during CNY period, the staff told me over the phone that there is a $10 surcharge. I went ahead to make an appointment for redemption on 14Feb for myself (1pax).

At the same time, I contacted JuzToday regarding a mis-representation in the deal

Email -
"I bought the 2 pax option for this deal "Only $18 for KOREAN POPSTAR Barbie Doll Eyelash Extension + 3D Eyelash Perm @ 7 Locations Islandwide" !!

Under the T&Cs it was stated that this deal was "Valid on eve of PH & PH!" but when I called up to fix an appointment for me and my girlfriend, the merchant tells me $10 surcharge is applicable per pax. Can you explain to me why does your website leave out this crucial piece of information?"

JuzToday replied -
"We checked and confirmed that the merchant did not inform about the surcharge to us previously. It might be due to the coming CNY festive season.

Nevertheless, we are sorry for any inconvenience caused.
Would you be able to consume the coupons? Thanks."

Come 14Feb, I went down punctually to redeem the deal. Upon reaching the shop I flashed the voucher to the shop assistant showing proof that the T&C clearly states 2pax and I paid $32 for the 2pax voucher. Honestly, how else can you interpret "2 Pax Barbie Doll Eyelash Extension & Perm"?

To my horror, the lady replied me out loud, attempting to humiliate me in the shop by saying that for this price, there is no way you could have purchased a deal for 2pax. She interpreted the deal as 1Pax to enjoy the lash extensions and the 2nd pax to enjoy the lash perming. Not lash + perm for 2 customers. I honestly found this reasoning to be bullshit. Nonetheless, I do not wish to argue further, just wanted to finish the extensions and get the hell out of this shady shop.

Before starting the lash extensions, the shop assistant kept harping on eyelash perming. Well, according to her flawed interpretation, I could redeem both lash + perm on myself. I thought since it was already included in my deal why not just do it. To my horror yet again, the lady tried to up-sell me $120 top-up for perming, claiming that their shop uses premium perm solution that will produce very long-lasting perm effects. Do you really think I am a 3 year old?

Grudgingly, we finally begun the lash extensions. While working on my lashes, once again the hard-selling tactics surface. She claims that since I am not doing lash perming, she offered to do a thicker layer of extensions and requested that I top up $30 for another layer of lash-by-lash extensions on top of the cluster extensions that my deal covered. This according to her, will ensure that the extensions last longer. I clarified with her to ensure that there will be no discomfort because I fear that a thick layer of extensions will be too heavy for my tiny eyes. She confirmed that I will not feel a thing (the extensions).

Well, with my eyes at her mercy, I agreed. I suppose she loaded my eyelids with tonnes of glue because my eyeballs felt like they were burning. When the therapist was done with the extensions and asked for me to open my eyes, my eyes were red and tearing furiously. Speaks alot about her skills. Or rather, the lack-thereof.

When she finally completed the extensions, I was stupefied to see that the effects. It was exactly the same as the uncomfortable and torturous extensions done at City Plaza which only costs me $30! But I had actually paid $32 (voucher) + $30=$62 for this?! As if she has not extorted enough from me, she went on to offer me $388 packages and also kindly informed that removal of lashes would cost another $30! I was already boiling mad and wanted to get the hell out of the salon before I exploded from anger.

The extensions were glued onto the eyelids so my eyes just felt burdened and heavy, most uncomfortable so to speak. In the shower when I shut my eyes to prevent water from getting it, my eyelids felt painful because of the extension "pinching" on my skin.

During the night in my sleep, I felt the lashes poking my eyelids, to my utter horror, the extensions all fell OFF. Yes, within less than 24hrs! Oh the irony of her telling me that the extensions done at their salon is of good quality and will last for a good long time. In case you are wondering, I did not return to make a scene or request for them to rectify the job proper because I was pretty sure that if I had gone back I would have created a din and end up on Stomp. And judging by how the business conducts itself, they will definitely give me a piece of their mind, in the loudest manner possible.

May this nightmare serve as a reminder for all before deciding to purchase any deals associated with The Best Beauty.

Update - after reaching out to JuzToday, they have kindly offered to refund my purchase back in the form of store credits :)

Photo taken right after extensions were done

Less than 24hrs after extensions were done

Extensions all fell off by themselves!

What remains

Snapshot of deal from
JuzToday

Review of facial at SkinLab The Medical Spa, Wheelock Place

$28 Groupon deal includes 90 min Clinical Vita C Infusion Facial + Mask with Eye Treatment + 15 min Lactic Peel. Arrived on time for my appointment on a Sunday morning. Upon consultation, I made known that my key concern was blackheads. The consultant advised that I should top up for a medical peel (which was previously known as chemical peel, using salicylic acid) because the Lactic Peel included in my Groupon was much milder. The salicylic acid would allow the blackheads to be extracted easily subsequently.

With the promise of less painful extraction, I went ahead and topped up $38 for the peel. Mind you, this top up already costs more than the Groupon deal itself. I guess for me, I like to try and experience new treatments which will treat my blackheads and in particular, any treatments which will pave the way for less painful extractions is a must-try for me, provided it is within my affordability.

I had high expectations for the facial, SkinLab promoted themselves as a medical spa hence I had the impression that the products used in the facial must be of higher grade than your usual beauty salons. Unfortunately, the facial did not meet my expectations. During the exit interview, I had voiced out my disappointment.

Firstly, the salicylic acid peel served no purpose because the facial extractions still hurt (like a b!tch) to the same extent as my usual facials. In fact the blackheads extraction was not performed thoroughly. I was taken aback when the consultant explained that her beautician did not perform a full extraction as I was using a Groupon deal. I suppose a suitable analogy would be - imagine you went to a restaurant which serves you half-cooked food and the restaurant manager then explains to you "Oh we are serving you sub-standard food because you are a Groupon customer." *Slow clap* Another tiny gripe I had was, the beautician did not even trim my eyebrows. I was clearly not impressed.

The consultant went on to offer 2 subsequent facials at $268 and she promised that this time round the beautician will (1) perform the full suite of services (extraction in particular) and (2) leave the chemical peel on the nose for a longer period of time for the blackheads to be better exfoliated.

I felt this was illogical, the whole point of working with Groupon is to promote your brand to new customers like myself, and if your services and treatments were in fact that fantastic (like how it was with Gangnam), customers would be able to tell and see the results from this one trial session. Why would customers purchase any more of your services if the trial session produced no results? Needless to say based on my personal experience with SkinLab, my overall review is a thumbs down.

Review of lash extensions at HighBrow (part 2)

After touch-up session on 21 Jan

Picture taken on 27 Jan

Extensions all fell off in less than a week

Skin condition - Steatocystoma multiplex

Few years ago, small bumps started appearing on my chest area. Physical appearance wise the bumps resembled acne and blocked hair follicles.

I showed the bumps to my beautician who proceeded with extraction on the largest visible bump, (a decision I lived to regret because the extraction was not done thoroughly hence leaving behind an unsightly scar of about a bubble tea mini-pearl size), expression of the bump contents produced pus substances similar to those from acne. When the wound didn't heal like how a normal pimple would, I was left with a sizeable reddish spot.

After some research on a suitable skin clinic, I found myself at Nxxx Mxxxx Clinic, hoping to treat the spot and at the same time find out what condition this is so I can stop the bumps from multiplying. The doctor mis-diagnosed the condition as Folliculitis and prescribed me a day cream, a night cream and an antibiotic for the red extracted spot. As with any private skin clinics, I expected a hefty bill but fortunately the expenses at Nxxx Mxxxx came up to less than $200.

The red extracted spot did not recover but instead left it's mark on my body as a permanent scar. Needless to say, the creams and antibiotics prescribed did not deliver any results.

Last year, I felt the urge again to treat the condition which was why I ended up at Dr. Cxxxx's Medical Aesthetics Clinic. This proved to be a futile trip because Dr Cxxxx also mis-diagnosed the condition as Folliculitis, again I was given the prescription of a day cream, a night cream and a mask to apply 2-3x weekly. But this being an aesthetics clinic, Dr Cxxxx offered laser treatment for scar removal, but spending $800 - $1,000 for a scar the size of a bubble tea mini-pearl just felt like unnecessary spending because after all, the area is normally covered by clothes.

The bill came up to around $300-500, which burnt a larger hole in my pocket. I expected results with the prescriptions, yet, despite diligent applications, there were NO improvements whatsoever. Imagine my disappointment and frustration, this was again money thrown down the drain.

Few weeks ago I noticed the bumps have multiplied somewhat considerably hence causing some panic for myself. I went to the company clinic Fullerton Healthcare @ Gethin-Jones to get a referral to the National Skin Centre (NSC). Dr Wong at Gethin-Jones saw me. The night before I took a photo of my condition which I showed to the doctor but he wanted to take a look for himself.

I was not prepared for what's to come. After seeing with his own eyes, he actually claims that the bumps are not visible (and the actual condition was nothing like the photo I showed him, sorry but is he implying that I am trying to fool him?!). Dr Wong also added that my condition couldn't be Folliculitis because the bumps should not just disappear overnight. For the record, the bumps are there! That was when I started doubting his credentials as a GP or he could just be visually impaired. He didn't advised further action on such conditions because he believed that since these are not life threatening and do not cause any discomfort or inconvenience in my daily routine, I should not seek further action or treatment.

Not surprisingly, Dr Wong mis-diagnosed my condition as Keratosis *slow clap* and reluctantly penned a referral to NSC. I was particularly peeved with this particular doctor because he was absolutely apathetic to my condition, not forgetting his visual impairment when examining my condition. Society places high regard and respect for doctors because of the work they do, the knowledge they possess and the social good they are capable of. This Dr Wong however, unfortunately, absolutely disgusts me.

At the same time, I decided to pursue a perhaps more expensive channel by dropping an email with a picture of my condition to Dr Joyce Lim Skin & Laser Clinic. Hoping that someone somewhere can offer me the insight of the exact condition I am suffering from.

To my surprise, Dr Lim replied -

"these looks like steatocystoma multiplex

you need to remove surgically

no creams (to help stop the growth)"

21 Jan I went for the appointment at NSC and saw Dr Chua Sze Hon, this time round, finally the good doctor gave the right diagnosis of Steatocystoma Multiplex (exactly like what Dr Lim has diagnosed). There is unfortunately no topical creams to stop the growth. The invasive approach to removing existing growth is via extraction (inserting a needle to draw out the pus) or surgical removal. However the size of the cysts on me are too small to warrant such aggressive approaches. Furthermore, surgical removal not only produces a even larger and unsightly scar, it also does not help to stop or prevent future growth.

I had barely warmed up the seat and Dr Chua had already sent me out the door because there are no treatment options available. I left NSC feeling utterly disappointed because I could not believe that in this day and age, medical technology has no solution available. Consultation fees was $106.

Based on Dr Lim's last response, I queried whether she treats Steatocystoma Multiplex at her clinic and what are the fees expected. Another surprise from Dr Lim again -

"Yes

i need to see exactly what it is first before deciding whether a procedure or laser is needed

con fees $130

preocedure from $150

laser from $350"

The first question that popped up was why Dr Chua at the NSC did not offer me this option? Was it because it is a government hospital? While I am elated to hear from Dr Lim, I also have to manage my own expectations after the 2 failed attempts at Nxxx Mxxxx Clinic and Dr. Cxxxx's Medical Aesthetics Clinic. I am still sitting on the fence whether to see Dr Lim or just live with it, because truth is the bumps are here to stay and is it really worth spending thousands of dollars just to fix an area which is usually covered by clothes? I am still considering...

Review of lash extensions at HighBrow (part 1)

Bought the Groupon deal at $42 for Full Eyelash Extensions + Touch Up. Arrived punctually for my appointment and I was promptly whisked off to start my lash extensions. Therapist kindly informs that I have to pay $3 for the eye masks which is necessary for them to proceed with the lash extensions.

Extensions done up nicely, in my opinion, thicker and longer than my prior extensions done at Dreamlash and Lolita The Beauty Studio. I was very impressed at how much more awake and alert I look with the lash extensions, not to mention my "zhng-ed" eyes definitely appeared more lively than it naturally is.

Before leaving, therapist reminded me of the steps to take care and prolong the lifetime of the extensions, most importantly being to avoid oil-based make-up removers. My usual remover from Biore is oil-based, later on that evening I purchased a water-based cleanser from Sephora, hoping that my efforts at taking care of the lashes will help to maintain it at its optimal condition.

Dipped cotton buds into the water-based cleanser and painstakingly started removing the eyeliner I had on like how the therapist had instructed. Even when showering, I avoided pointing the shower-head at my face. Unfortunately, right after showering I noticed the extensions on my right eye has fallen off significantly, such that there was a noticeable "hole" along my lash line.

The following day, I contacted HighBrow because I was bewildered at how the extensions could have detached themselves so quickly in less than 24hrs from my lash extension treatment, without hesitation they offered me a free touch-up as part of sales recovery (impressive service!). I was genuinely taken aback and very delighted. The touch-up restored my extensions back to its glorious form.

Unfortunately, my happiness did not last long as the extensions started falling off within days, at one week old my extensions already appear sparse and in dire need of a touch-up. Needless to say, I am looking forward to the touch-up session on 21 Jan!

Photo taken fresh after the extensions were done (7 Jan)

After shower. Look at where the red arrow is pointing (7 Jan)

After touch-up (8 Jan)

Extensions at 1 week old

Review of laser facial at Gangnam Laser Clinic, HarbourFront Centre

Received a complimentary laser facial session from the Gangnam team which came just in time for my wedding skin-prep.

Made the appointment on 18 Dec, approximately 1.5 weeks before wedding day in order to allow the skin to recover (fear of unexpected side effects after the laser treatment). I had high expectations for this laser facial after the raved facial I had at Gangnam Aesthetics. Furthermore, a close friend who went for the same treatment at their Raffles branch shared highly positive reviews. I mean, since laser facials are more penetrative than usual facials, the effects must be even more pronounced right?

Before heading down I had already checked out their prices and packages, seems reasonable and I just needed to see the effects after the treatment to convince myself to sign up.

Arrived at the clinic, filled in registration form and read through the long list of T&Cs on the indemnity form which kinda scared me because of the endless possibilities and side effects that may arise from the laser facial. Eventually I spoke to the doctor regarding my concerns and that my big day is coming so I cannot afford any awful bumps or spots on my face. Thankfully he laid all my fears to rest as the side effects only happen to a small handful of patients. Lastly, he added that his staff will pass me a post-laser treatment list of activities and products to avoid.

Before treatment started, the staff removed my makeup, albeit in a rather rough manner (Gangnam Aesthetics staff were much professional in this aspect), which left me rather displeased.

2 types of laser treatment was administered by the doctor, the first is the one that stings for skin resurfacing. The pain is definitely tolerable as it was only for a short 3-5mins. The "burnt" smell is due to facial hairs being burnt off by the laser. As I laid there going through the procedure, I silently hoped that the effects better be worth all these discomfort.

The next laser administered was for toning, this was a comfortable procedure as a warm probe was rolled around the face. After which the staff re-enters the room and requests that I shift to another room to recuperate with a mask applied to my face. The mask was icy cold and hence very soothing on my face.

After the staff removed my mask, she tells me that no further paperwork required and I was free to leave right away. So I enthsiastically checked out my skin in the mirror, I had expected bright, radiant skin but I was disappointed to see not much has changed on my face. Crestfallen, I left the clinic (which by then was empty, even the reception counter was empty) and without the post-laser treatment list.

Negative shopping experience with HipVan

Ordered a coffee table from HipVan and they have scheduled the delivery on this morning at 9am. Happily, we waited. But the delivery man never came knocking on our knock. Next thing we know, round 10am in the morning, an email comes in - yes HipVan expects us to be monitoring our inbox 24/7 and did not even have the decency to give us a call - notifying us that :

<We are writing in regards to the delivery status of your order #11369 for the item - Quiche Coffee Table - Cocoa.

Before even attempting to explain the reasons leading to this unintended mistake, I would like to sincerely apologize to you for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The delivery arrangement for the item has been overlooked and your item is still in our warehouse, while our courier is already out delivering in the west area today. We take full responsibility for the error and we guarantee that such incidents will not occur in the future.

We understand that you have been waiting since this morning for the item but to no avail. Do allow us to deliver it tomorrow, 8th Nov, Saturday, first thing in the morning. 

Please accept our deepest and sincerest apologies for the frustration and inconvenience caused. 

Regards,
Izan,
on behalf of the HipVan team.>

Our initial reaction was shock and anger, we had taken time off work on a week day specially for this delivery. HipVan has committed such a regrettable mistake but they do not even take the effort in calling up the customers to explain what has happened. Furthermore, did they expect customers to be sitting round the house whole day long just waiting for the delivery? This lapse in service standard came across to me as a rude awakening.

To make matters worst, calling up HipVan's hotline was such a test of mental tolerance. I continuously called for half an hour but nobody bothers to pick up my phone call. It was as though nobody was mending the hotline. When someone finally picked up my call, I had a belly full of fury waiting to explode. Finally HipVan agrees to make the delivery by today. Unfortunately the coffee table was sent to our unit was defective *slow clap for you HipVan* we rejected the piece and it is going to be a 2 weeks await for the replacement.

Those intending to purchase from HipVan, you have been warned.