Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Shakura Pigmentation Beauty Salon – not so beauty after all...

If you search "Shakura Pigmentation Beauty Salon review" online, you will see not so favourable remarks about this beauty salon chain...there are positive reviews too, but it's very, very few compared to the negative reviews...in this post, I'm gonna share with you my experience and view on this...

The promotional RM18 facial flyer

Slightly more than half a year ago, while shopping for the coming Chinese New Year, there was this girl approached me to buy the RM18 voucher for 1st facial trial at Shakura Pigmentation Beauty Salon at Paradigm Mall...the trial promotion included 1 session of pigmentation facial therapy, 1 home care set and 1 free mystery gift...

Usually, I would just brushed off this kind of selling approach...I'm in the opinion of, how good can a facial be when it's only RM18, or RM38 like those in group buying sites? But on that 'fateful day', I gave in and purchased the voucher after much persuasion from that girl!! I remembered fondly I was still in disbelief mode after the purchase and hb was actually not too happy about it...

The benefits of facial as claimed by Shakura

I didn't bother to call to book an appointment; in fact I have almost forgotten it 'till the last day before the voucher expiry when the staff called me instead...after setting up the appointment, I did consider whether to just forget about the whole thing and loss RM18, or went ahead with the facial...I went anyway for the first facial trial on the appointment day...it was mid of March...

The first session started with skin consultation to better understand my facial skin...The beauty consultant, let's name her as Ada*, scanned my skin at different parts and pin-pointed some 'pigments' on my face...I'm not a beauty expert nor do I know how to differentiate between a pigment or a mole...whatever Ada said, I just nodded...

After consultation, I was ushered to one of the facial rooms...before the facial started, Ada took some photos of my face...over the facial, Ada told me what product was being used as and when she applied it to me... There were cleansing with the milk essence, black and white heads extraction, cold masks in between, enzyme application and lastly what felt like a clay mask...I think Ada has put at least 4 different types of masks on me...at one point towards the end of the facial, she took photos of my face again...The facial lasted for about 3 hours...

After the facial, I was shown the before and after pictures...Ada said the pigments on my face were slightly less visible and that my face was more radiant...'ya right', I think...because I can see the lighting of the pictures were different (how can the towels over my head and body changed their color lol) But when I looked at the mirror, I actually felt horror to see my face in redness...I think it was due to the extraction, but I didn't say anything about it...

Ada claimed that the whole treatment was worth RM560. She said, even though I paid only RM18, the facial I got just now was a full facial, to let first time customer to feel the efficiency of the facial...btw, Shakura claims its facial to visibly lighten pigmentation in just 1 session...she then continued to tell me that, with my face skin condition, I would need 20 sessions of facial to fully treat the pigmentation and other skin problems that I have...she guaranteed me that, after the course of 20 sessions, I would have flawless skin...wow, guarantee, that was a big word!!!

20 sessions of RM560 per session...that summed up to RM11200 for the whole course!! I immediately say no, that was too expensive...Ada said she understand, so she gave me discount 50%, so it became RM5600 for 20 sessions...she said it was good deal given the facial was RM560 per session....again, I said no, I need to consult my hb first since that was not a small amount (that was an excuse actually)...

But Ada didn't give up...she said, on top of the 20 sessions, she would give me some free products to take home...she even told me that, no need ask husband's consent, when your face is more beautiful your husband will even sponsor you...I actually felt offended when she said such...was she telling me to do something behind my hb's back? 

Seeing that I was still not wanting to give in, she suggested that, if 20 sessions was a too much of amount, then I can try 10 sessions...so that would be RM2800, and I can pay by installment with zero interest...I just told her, no, I still need to ask my hb first...by then I can felt that Ada had started to feel irritated...ah, who cares, it was my money we are talking about!! Ada then suggested 5 sessions first for RM1400...I asked if I can give her answer later, but she said this is a one-time offer only and will be forfeited if I do not sign that day, that I would only get 40% discount if I sign the other day...I told her it's ok, 40% discount is still good...actually I  was starting to feel uneasy and under pressure from her continuous persuasion...

But gosh, she sure has a tough heart...she said in that case, why don't you put a deposit of RM500 here to guarantee that you will get 50% discount if you sign up later, and the RM500 can be used to purchase the Shakura products...I was like, huh???!!! Why would I deposit RM500 here? That means I still have to fork out some few thousands to buy the facial course right? So, I said no again...she then said, fine, with a 'black' face, and went out to get my free home care set...'Black' face!!! Is this how they treat customers?

When she returned to the room, she showed me the home care set, and very impolitely warned me; this is not suitable for you, your face skin is very unstable, you let your husband use lah...I just stayed mum...Then she went out again...I was thinking, why she still don't let me go? I really had this urge to just walk out but by then she came back again...

Ada told me that she has applied from the manager to give me the student price, which was RM560 for 3 sessions...that worked out to be about RM186.70 per session...she said that was really a good deal but now I wonder if the facial was really worth RM560...blame for my weak heart, but my mind was really blank and I finally gave in and signed for the RM560 for 3 sessions package...I still remember I was very reluctant when I said 'ok' but it was too late because Ada has swiped my credit card...I can only be thankful it was RM560 and not RM5600...

That night itself, I googled up "Shakura Pigmentation Beauty Salon review"...to my horror, there were so many negative reviews on this salon, and all with the similar sales tactic...you can read it here, here and here....some even went on to pursue legal claim like this customer...damn...I have paid RM560 and now I was not sure whether I should go ahead with the facials!!! I was just too worried that what if I was asked to top up during the middle of my facial like some other 'victims'...I also felt cheated when I saw that almost all of the complainers were asked to go for the 20 sessions facial course...why, because that means it was a 'standard procedure' for the Shakura staff to persuade customers to sign the standard 20 sessions, and not because my face need it like what Ada has claimed!!! Wtf!!! Gosh...how I wished I had seen all these before I went there that morning...

At the end, I went ahead with the facial...Although Ada asked me to go every fortnight, I went once a month instead...And the facials was not as comprehensive as the trial session...the masks were only 2 or 3 per session instead of 4 like the trial, and the extraction has really 'tortured' me a lot...and during the course of facial, I was left alone in the facial room most of the time as Ada went out and in, to serve other customers perhaps...and each time after the facial, my face would have red patches here and there, but luckily they disappeared  after 2 or 3 days...I was just thankful that I didn't have any other skin problems due to the facial, like other 'victims'...but, co-incidentally each time after the facial, I would fall sick and flu for good few days...so yeah, every month from March to May, I had to visit the doctor and spent on medical bills.

The last session was in June...before I went for the last session, I told myself must be strong to resist any pressure from Ada or any other staff...I even took out all my credit cards and left them at home lol...The facial lasted only 1.5 hours...Short changed? I'm not sure...And as expected, Ada again tried to persuade me to sign the course for remaining 17 sessions...otherwise she can try apply from her manager to give me student price again...I said no, and gave excuse like I need to go outstation for work for few months hence no time for facial yada yada (which was a lie actually)...perhaps she got the hint, so she just told me I can go back anytime and still entitled to 50% discount...I said "ok, thanks", and that was the end of my relationship with Shakura...I swear I would never go back again...

The home care set that apparently not suitable for me

Now...whether the facial at Shakura is good or not, I think it really depends on individuals...everyone has different skin conditions, thus things good for one are not necessarily good for the other...For me, the facial was ok; yes I can see my facial skin became more radiant at the end of the last session, yet I can't ignore the fact that my skin developed red patches, even though they disappeared after few days...and I also strongly dislike, and really really hate being pressured to purchase something at exorbitant price when I was not convinced enough...The money is mine; I decide what to do with it, not you ok...

What Shakura Pigmentation Beauty Salon has offered is perhaps suitable for those who do not mind to take risk to commit 20 sessions, but it's definitely not for me...my experience of being pressured to commit few thousands, which luckily did not materialize, has actually been a good learning point for me to handle such situation again in the future...

Oh btw, Ada didn't give me the mystery gift and I didn't inquire about it either...I just didn't care about the gift anymore but be thankful I didn't stupidly sign the RM5600 course...

* 'Ada' is not the real name of the beauty consultant.

158 comments:

  1. Omg, "Ada" was so rude! I really hate being pressured to buy things, especially if it's that expensive. If anythings they are selling their services and for that amount for that attitude, it's not worth it at all. Good call about leaving your credit card home lol. I guess that's why people like to go to facials with friends, just to have someone to pull you out of situations like this. Thanks for sharing your experience dear.

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    1. Me too don't like being pressured >.< this was a good lesson for me, and yeah, I would go facial with a companion next time just in case :)

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    2. I totally agreed with yr comments. Even after signing up, they still torture me each facial session. They talk non stop to get me to buy more products. Now i so scared to go there. They actually drive customer away by doing such. I have 30 session for 10K plus. But i have seen good result on my face. Before i have lots of freckles, pigments...now all gone with clear looks. The only part i hate is the sales talk.

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  2. Wow..really surprise with the price Shakura offer you. Thinking that I'm signed up 20 times for 7K. First time walk in my facial are $500 for first time with some product, and I was wondering how good will the result will be so I sign again 5 times. If I'm not mistaken the price for one time facial is $360. Thinking now and doned with 8 sessions ad still having my scare problem. How insobriety am I..

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    1. Wow...is that the price in SG?? So expensive!!! How many sessions have you been to??

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    2. sad to say this shakura is not from Japan at all.... its jus a gimmick and the therapist are not true dermatologist. please do not trust them anymore!!

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    3. , I am at shakura now. Thanks God. While waiting I read your review.

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    4. Hi Zarina, I hope this blogpost has helped you to make an informed decision :)

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  3. I experience the same. Fortunately I managed to escaped myself since I informed that I am a housewife and depend on my children. I am already prepared for this is the normal pressure used by all beauty saloons and slimming centers.

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  4. I wish I had google and read about Shakura Pigmentation review by all of you. I am from Spore. During my 1st free trial session, they play the same tactics as you described, scan your face, took photo and they pressure me into signing up for 20 session for S$4,922/-. I too refused to signed and they keep on talking and convincing me and when they see me. They also have a Manager to talk to me and give me a Senior Citizen rate S$1,900/- for 10 sessions. They refused to let me go off and they keep on pressure you with their sales tactics. Eventually, I gave in and signed for 10 sessions at S$1,900/-. Until today, I felt cheated, angry and regret what I did, for unable to withstand their sales pressure. I hope through your blog, people will read and not meet with the same thing as me.

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    1. Hi, I really feel for you!!! It's indeed really hard to withstand the pressure when they practically breath behind your neck >.< Anyway if you don't mind could you share your experience with the 10 sessions? Have the sessions improve your skin?
      And yeah, I would be glad if my blog can help those who are in similar situation. It doesn't matter which beauty salon, but I hope through my blog people are aware of the sales tactic and be prepared to say 'no' if they are not comfortable with the package offered.

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  5. OK. I'm the latest victim then. I paid RM1,680 via credit card (stupidness of me) for 5 times facial & products (after all the mktg sessions of course). I told them to hold the set of products for me but she insist I take home the Night Essence Mask and apply 3 times nightly straight after treatment. I haven't unboxed the mask. Can I still ask for a refund? I'm willing to return their products in an immaculately & lose out on credit card charges as long as they REFUND me the larger chunk of money. Why didn't I google about this beforehand? Sighs.

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    1. Hi, I'm not sure whether you can ask for refund since you have 'authorised' your credit card? Have you gone to the facial yet? If the facial is ok, I think nothing much you can do :( But if the facial gives you side effect, you can file a complaint and ask for refund I think. Good luck~

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    2. Shakura is suck. Will go n ask them for refund.

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  6. 因为电台promo RM28试用护理
    我才接触到这shakura
    他们promo treatment时
    他们讲到我面的印纹红斑很严重
    我已经推了不要了
    开始他们也是promo 20次护理上八千多元配套
    他又叫经理与我商量价
    问多多为何不能接受这配套
    讲到我面的印纹红斑很严重否则后果这个那个

    我很怕严重性傻傻的签了分十二期的
    护理十次脱纹配套
    RM3360有送5只booster

    以为是包山包海又没讲明之后另外要买booster
    第一次护理过后
    他们又敲诈逼我买它的其他20只booster
    又说之前送的5只booster
    是不够的否则一定会留下黑印

    讲到好吓人
    搞到我进推两难
    如果他们之前讲明要再另买贵死的booster
    我肯定绝对不会接受这配套RM3K
    有受骗感觉

    那个booster好贵,
    十只小小瓶要RM1700
    而且一小瓶只可用两晚而已

    自从在这短短两星期花费整rm3000 + rm1700后
    我每晚都失眠很难过
    怪自己太快决定用这死人压力配套
    怪我自己蠢太容易相信他们甜言蜜语!!
    也不敢告诉家人

    那个死consultant 千丁我每晚都要搽
    而且一瓶只能用两晚
    死妹丁说不能省着用
    令我很大心理压力
    一直骂自己骂自己为何我签这死人配套

    我心想那末贵怎晚晚用
    那末肯定很快用完
    consultant一定又要我敲诈我加买十瓶赚钱

    现在我搽booster搽得很省

    我还有九次脱斑护理的treatment
    还有14只booster

    这九次护理过程里我绝不再带信用卡去
    或连ATM卡都放在车上

    我现在卡債累累了
    什么家里东西需要买的都被逼搁置
    尤其是现在接近过年
    还清卡債再打算

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Hi....I can't really read chinese, so I used Google Translate help...hope I got you right....

      It's indeed 'scary' the way they talk about your face...I experienced the same too...they sure know how to use psychology and fear tactic to press you into signing their expensive treatment course...

      I just hope the treatments have brought good effect to you since you have paid so much...and don't buy their scare tactic anymore....leaving your credit card and ATM cards at home is a smart move...

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    2. ok, thanks, i wil leave all credit card and ATM cards at home b4 go treatment !!

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    3. Yes, do that!!! Do update me on your treatment outcome ya Carmen ^_^

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  7. It was a wonderful morning for me. Woke up early, made myself maggi tom yam and a cup of coffee. Listen to the radio while enjoying my breakfast. Then i heard the DJ from warna 94.2fm to sms my name this number 72272 to stand a chance to win a free facial treatment! I love participating in radio contest and be the one who can get through their line to be on air and answer their questions. I thought after sending the msg the dj will call me and put me through on air and announce me as the winner or something like that. I waited but to no avail. So i left for work as per normal. Quite disappointed actually. So half an hour ago shakura called me! She told me to set an appt with her for the free facial treatment. First thing i asked her, did i win? She was abit confused. She said she received my sms and contacted me to make an appt. Then i asked her if anyone else sms that number they will also get the free facial? She said yes......... i feel so cheated. Anyway im a guy. I never fancy facial treatment or anything before. I just enjoy the victory from winning in a radio contest. Anyway, the lady told me i can bring another person for the free trial. I told her i need to check my schedule to arrange an appt. She said if i booked an appt within this month, i will receive a gift. She booked a slot for me tmrw and told me to call again to confirm. I guess i am lucky to come here before confirming. Anyway my skin is alright. Hehe. Thank you cpmoon!

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    1. Nah...winning contest is just marketing gimmick and trick to make you feel lucky...when i bought the first trial rm18 the girl told me it was last day and only limited for selected few customers...but when i went for the first session the promotion still on lol...so you didn't go for the first session? :)

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    2. Nope. They called me again at night to confirm my booking, i told them i have to cancel my booking as im going outstation for work. At first she insisted that i go because it is free, when she finally gets it that i really cant go, she told me to find someone else to replace me. I told her i dont have the time as im going outstation next week. She said its ok as they will try to keep calling me as they cant clear my number from their database! Haha. I just heard the radio advertising their free trials again!! Hahaha

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    3. You know what?? I think they would keep calling you until they successfully make you walk into their salon haha...if you don't wish too, just ignore and stand by your decision...otherwise, keep in your mind never sign any course no matter how they persuade you, if you feel uncomfortable... :)

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  8. I just went shakura in mid valley tis morning. It was a worst facial that i ever had before. The beatician keep on criticize my face..the whole session was just mask for 2 hrs. Really wasting time, the sales consultant persuade me to sign the cost.i feel not comfortable n not enjoy at all during the facial. I just says no.

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    1. Good for you to didn't sign the course!! Yeah, we deserve much better treatment during facial, we are customer after all :)

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  9. Oh dear! Sorry to hear about your misfortune at Shakura. I'm terrified now >_< have bought a groupon voucher online and will be going for the 3hr facial with my mum next week. But we're on a really tight schedule as I only have a few days in Malaysia. So will definitely not sign up any package with them. Phew!

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    1. Good excuse, hehe...just tell them you are leaving Malaysia soon ;-) Where are you going? :)

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  10. Hi Alan, I'm sure ladies from New Delhi would find your info useful :)

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  11. Having read ur post makee me hate Shakura even more. I think most customers hv more or less the same experience with their therapists. They are just blood suckers, out to gun ur money. I did sign as a member with them for RM500, whuch enabled me to receive a RM1,000 worth of treatment or products. Anyway, I hv done 2 treatments so far & my mum did one in her pigmentation, & am thinking of not using my final treatment as I really hate stepping into their salon now. Shd i just go ahead to get ut done or forget abt it since my mum & I had already 3 treatments between us for RM500?

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    1. Hi there....they offer you RM500 for 4 sessions? Since you only left one final session, perhaps just go and do the treatment? But remember to left all your cash and credit card at home in order to avoid signing the course again...but of course, if you don't wish too, then just skip the final treatment if the treatment does you no good... :)

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  12. omg I wish I saw your post earlier..i juz signed a 20 sessions with Shakura 2 days ago. I got a free trial for thr first time which I feel is quite OK and makes me sign for the package. Am I a victim already? oh gosh..

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    1. Hi there....I wish to clarify this post is not about scam or what...what all of us here have been through was signing package under great pressure...if you are happy with the first trial, and are happy to sign the package because you confident with the treatment, then nothing wrong with that I guess :)

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    2. but I cant find a single good comment about the place and treatment..am really worried now..i will start my first treatment nx week..anyone got treatment and come out with bad result?

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    3. But the first trial was ok for you right? :)
      For myself, I think the result so-so only...
      Everyone has different skin condition and react differently to different products...
      Maybe you can monitor the result on you.... :)

      Actually, there are good comments from satisfied customers...you can find it on the web....but very few I think...

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    4. yes u are right..cant really find a good comment..i just hope nothing when wrong with my face..if their treatment is so good..why they need practice such tactic?

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    5. Since the 1st treatment is ok, the next treatments should be ok on you...anyway to be safe, better monitor the result ya....

      Hmm...maybe because they have sales targets to meet? They have a lot customers though...when I went for my sessions, it's always full of customers....

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    6. Do not sign for another package.

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  13. I see..thanks for the info anyway..although im too late to know..hope I see good results if not my money will be super waste.. :(

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    1. Well don't be despair....the result could be good on you :) Update me ya ^_^

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    2. im stil feeling unsure on whether to start their facial yet..my first session will start nx week..read alot ppl advise don even start theie treatment as they will damage ur skin..am really in dillema now..should I juz file the case to tribunal like most ppl do..or stil go and try? sigh...

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    3. Hmmm...it really depends on yourself....if you feel not right, then do what you think is right...on the other hand, it's always best to trust yourself rather than just follow what other people do....decision is yours, good luck yeh... :)

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    4. I'm also in the dilemma after swiping MYR3000
      I haven't go for the first treatment in the package.. *cries*

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  14. Thank you for sharing the information. I would like to tell that I have recently found a beauty salon changing room salon who is providing a very great services in all types of beauty treatments like haircuts, hair color, waxing, nails, reflexology to facials with all types of modern beauty amenities.
    Contact Us For Expert Hair Stylists

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    1. Hi sheila, hopefully someone would find that useful :)

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  15. Hey gals, I came across this blog cause I heard the radio advertisment n was tempted to send the sms. Tot I better check for review....luckily!!
    I hv been to another beauty salon widely advertised in singapore "NY" and they used exactly the same kind of tactics. Critised how bad ur face was before facial trial, emphasized on how good ur face was after facial, pressure fm staff followed by manager, special cheaper packages "just for u"........
    I did sign up in the end but only for 6 facial. Stopped after that as I didn't see any results.

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    1. Hi there...am glad to be able to help!!!
      I was so regret that I didn't check for review during my time, and so I shared my experience here so that at least anyone out there would make an informed decision, and not just blindly sign the package :)

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  16. Hi there...same like you, i also experience the same situation. Yesterday already sign up for another 3 sessions plus me also buy their sunblock spf25...now i felt so scary seeing all this negative comments..what should i do..

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    1. Hi Liza...another 3 sessions, means you've been there before? How do you find the facial? It's nothing bad if you find it ok, really....the comments here may be negative because they feel pressured to sign the package...

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  17. Hi there, me also facing the same experience plus yesterday already sign up for another 3 sessions treatment plus their sunblock spf 25 all total for RM642.60...what should i do now..sob..sob T-T

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    1. As mentioned, nothing wrong if you are happy with the facial treatment.... don't despair...update here yeh... :)

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  18. i was one of the victim too. i signed for 30 session + 10 session. No result on my face, in fact worse. Then they asked me to buy another 100 bottle of "new booster" (they claimed) since they said no good result on my face. I refused and didn't go for the facial anymore. i sitll have few times facial left. They don't call me anymore.

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    1. wow....40 sessions? that must have cost you more than 10k!!!
      how many times you left?? did you consider to claim back the remaining sessions' money since the facials made your face worse??
      Anyway good luck eh and di update us here :)

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  19. Raeding your terrible experiance make me felt like I am sooooo lucky to be assigned with a good consultant of Shakura Pigmentation. Over the last few years, my skin had become dull-looking and my once-cute freckles had turned into blotchy brown spots. I found out about Shakura from a friend of a friend and I couldn't be happier with the results. At my first facial, I didn't even need to tell my consultant what my concerns were because she immediately assessed my skin and knew exactly what my problem areas were and what needed to be done. She was very conservative to start. I actually told her I didn't mind if she did something stronger, but she was insistent on protecting my skin.

    One of the things I appreciate about my consultant is that she does not push her products on me. Every skin consultant I've ever gone to has always seemed more interested in selling me their products than in my skin care, and that whatever I was using was wrong and bad for my skin. My consultant does not discourage you from using your own products if they are good products. But she gave me samples of a couple moisturizers she thought would help me so that I could try them out. It turns out the moisturizer she gave me is the best one I've ever used and very reasonably priced.

    But the BEST thing is when people notice and comment that my skin looks absolutely radiant! People I haven't seen in a while always want to know what I've been doing because my skin looks so great. My skin is now something I can be proud of and not hide behind makeup.

    I just wanna say TQVM to Jane of Shakura (Mid Valley outlet)

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    1. Hi Fatimah...
      Wow....great to hear about your experience, at least we know there are sincere beauticians out there!!! You are lucky that your consultant truly wanted to 'fix' your problems, and not just push the product/ package sale. I'm sure you are the happiest girl now ^_^
      Just curious, how many sessions you have been?

      Aih, why am I not so lucky >_<

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    2. CpMoon, this Fatimah Susila has nothing on her blog-link, and her statements are so rehearsed that they suspiciously look like the work of a "troll" that exists simply to do "damage control". Also, if you check on another real blogger (like you) who I have followed for a while, you will see the same Fatimah Susila there making the SAME comments on the SAME day. NOBODY should believe this post of hers to be real. It is more likely that a Shakura PR / Marketing staff has noticed the comments on many bloggers' site -- real, true reports on experiences with Shakura -- and are now trying to counter the terrible experiences by making positive statements.

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    3. Oh dear....if that is true, how low could the company be? haih~
      Do you mind to share with me the link of the other blogger that you mentioned? Would love to know about the blogger's experience...
      Seriously, if they really want to do the 'damage control', they should look back on their sales and marketing strategy...

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    4. The blog is http://klgirlnowinipoh.blogspot.com/2013/09/shakura-pigmentation-beauty-experts.html -- read that Fatimah Susila's comment posted on the same date as on yours here.

      The company has shown itself to be unscrupulous, so I don't expect them to care about sales & marketing strategy apart from the Hard-Sell Strategy. It is difficult for an honest company to do well in this trade, with so many of these unscrupulous companies scamming people and scaring people away.

      The fact is, products that have quality ingredients and manufactured to a high standard would and should command a high price simply because of quality, the R&D cost that has gone into the product and also considering the import duties required for it to enter the Malaysian market. What more, people generally are attracted to packaging, so that is another cost. Simply hard-selling with price drop and packages should not be the way to honestly run a beauty business with an honest aim to HELP the customer solve her skin problems. Unfortunately, many women fall for packages, thinking of the "savings". This characteristic drives the hard sell strategy with discounts.

      Delete
    5. Oh dear....now this 'Fatimah Susila' is really suspicious!!!

      I know of a salon that doesn't do hard-sell like this Shakura...the salon let me have one-time facial, without having me to sign entire 20-time course.....the salon told me that different people would have different improvement progress, so it's not fair to bond a customer even though the treatment may not be suitable for that customer one day...I believe this salon is more sincere in treating its customers :)

      But because this salon doesn't bond customers, I'm afraid its revenue may be lower than Shakura (not sure, based on guessing only)....this is because some customers are like 'touch n go', they just want to try the facial and not really interested to be in long-term with these salons...

      Shakura may win in terms of 'locking' the customers, but eventually it would lose the customers' hearts....I think their business is more on new customers rather than existing/loyal customers, with the heavy promotions on radio and group buying sites, offering very low price for 1st trial...

      I even receive blast emails from Shakura, Yun Nam and New York Skin; kononnya want to give me free trial in conjunction of my birthday... =.="

      Delete
  20. I went to Shakura on Friday 11th April, as a walk-in customer at the branch in The Curve to enquire about the product, treatment and services. I have bad pigmentation on my face, it is visible and has grown larger with age. I went there in the hope that this may perhaps be the answer to my pigmentation problem. The information given and the way it was given truly disappointed me. The front-line staff kept on repeating "milk enzyme" as their success story, refused to give straight answers when I asked about any machines used to assist in the treatment, and kept on saying that they can only tell me how many treatments I would need AFTER I paid Rm28 to undergo the 1st Trial. The info leaflet given to me was exactly the same as the one you have, posted here in your blog. In the end, I sensed that this was a scam and all they were interested in doing was to take your money. When I read about your experience here, it was so much like what others had experienced, those who had gone to New York Skin Solutions and London Weight Management. I also discovered that all these companies are under a single company called AMES Group (http://www.jobstreet.com.my/jobs/2013/5/new/a/10/1954937.htm?fr=R) . This company should be ashamed of themselves, treating people like cash cows.

    I thank you so much for putting your experience online and telling the truth, saving others from falling into this scam. Nobody should be pressurized into parting with their hard-earned cash in this way. It is UNPROFESSIONAL and downright wrong.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Samantha,

      Thank you so much for sharing your experience...ya, when I was there, the beauty consultant also kept on repeating on how good their "milk enzyme", or whatever they call it...when I asked if they have any testimonial from real customers, she said "aiyo, so many, very hard to search for you" =.=" but yet...aih...how could I signed on the dotted line...luckily it was only 3 sessions, and past means already past, I would never step my foot to the salon again....

      And wow....thank you for sharing that the companies being all under the AMES Group...agree so much with you; nobody should be pressurized into parting with their hard-earned cash in this way...

      Delete
    2. Hi CpMoon, you shouldn't fault yourself for signing up. The pressure is too much for a normal, kind person to take. Unless you are a thick-skinned, bold personality who cannot be pushed around, most people would just sign up something to back away from the situation. As for me, I raised my voice in the branch coz I was just so fed up with the stubborn idiocy of the front-line. By the way, the term "milk enzyme" would most likely refer to LACTIC ACID, which is used as part of chemical peels (check this out :http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chemical_peel ). Haiya...even this they cannot "educate" me on. "Milk Enzyme" my foot.

      Delete
    3. Hi Samantha,
      Yep, the pressure was too much; I signed because I want to escape the pressurized situation lol...but it was a good, expensive lesson for me so now I think I can better handle this kind of situation (hopefully!!)...I hope I can raised my voice like you too lol!!! Dunno why that time felt really intimated =.="
      Oh, you are right on the "milk enzyme"....!! Sometimes I just wish that a real beauty expert, walk-in to the salon, and give them a lecture when they try to sell their products to that expert lol... :p

      Delete
  21. Hey, lol. You need to learn how to speak up in person for yourself rather than blogging about the whole scenario and now at the losing end. Yeah, I encountered these situations before but they got the loads out of me for being really annoying.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Aisyah, as mentioned in previous comments, i was too intimidated and also it was first time i encountered this. Yep, i learned from my mistake. Well, i don't find anything wrong of blogging the whole experience...it's my way of sharing and i believe many have found it helpful. Thanks for your feedback anyway :)

      Delete
    2. I really appreciate your blog post babe because I just got a complimentary voucher to Shakura and wanted to know how the service is like. However, the only difference is that yours in Malaysia and mine is in Singapore. Ahh sheesh your only misake was to buy the package and get intimidated by the beauticians there. Oh well, at least your readers can learn from that. ^^

      Delete
    3. Oh wow, if you can stand the pressure, you can go and try the facial; it's free for you anyway ;-) who knows you find it ok, haha...but if you don't like, stay firm and refuse to sign anything yeh...i'm sure you will do well ^_^

      Delete
  22. And thank god, you didn't go ahead and pay for more items at the end of the sessions. Beauticians are losers! Lol.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ya, conscience hit me and i refused to pay more lol ^^ well, not all beauticians are nasty, some are really good and sincere... you just need to have the luck and fate ;-)

      Delete
  23. Hi all, thx for all comments, i'm a victim of RM560 (3 sessions). After 1 day i signed up & read all these negative comments, i decided to cancel it on the following day with my husband. We raised our voices in order to speak with the GM through phone until she made a decision to refund the money. Luckily i got the money back. Always remember pls google first bfore go to any beauty center.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Lucky for you for able to get a refund!! Many that don't. And ya, agree with you that one should google first before going to any beauty centre. One can never be too careful!!

      Delete
    2. Which branch? I also want to get refund! How should I talk to them in order to get refund?? I'm desperate.. :( MYR3k

      Delete
    3. Is there any ways to get my money refund? Please advise me.. I'm miserable after swiping MYR3k. I haven't attend the first facial in the package. I called up the manager and she said, there is no case of refund here. No client ever request for refund! They're all satisfied with the treatments! *Cries*

      Delete
    4. Hi Teacay, I'm sorry to hear your case....refund is very unlikely unless you go for tribunal...then again, they may ask for proof etc....haih, I also not sure how :(

      Delete
    5. I also want to ask for refund. How shld I talk abt it.

      Delete

  24. Dear all, I'd like to share my bad experience with Shakura Pigmentation Beauty Malaysia.
    I was told that I have won a contest via 988FM and only need to pay RM20 for 2 sessions of facial treatment. Before going, I double confirm with the girl from Shakura The Curve branch if there was any hidden cost or needed to sign package. They said "NO". So I made an appointment with them. Before starting my facial treatment, they collected RM20 for me as registration fees. After that they persuaded me RM500 to join member and said this can be refunded if I signed any program with them . And also I will get 2 free products from them. After the treatment, the lady tried to persuade me to sign the program but i rejected. To me it was really over price. With the price, I can get better treatment from well-known Dr.Ko Skin Specialist!!
    Then the lady just give me a very small travel kits and said the free product will on hold. If I sign the program., then I only can get the products. I was so angry and went away immediately. There was no way for me to fight because I was so dumb to give them my credit card.Just fyi, they will collect your credit card and swipe before any treatment.
    So becareful this Shakura..And please read the review from online. I was so regretted only saw all the negatives comment about this Shakura after the treatment. Should have read before going. I was considered lucky because only lost RM500 to them. Some people lost few thousands.



    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yep, with that amount of money, better spend at a proper certified skin specialist !!

      Delete
  25. Mine even worst..my cooling face mask was lifted up (this is not the final mask yet) on my 8th facial (but Shakura mentioned is no more left). I was told my remaining 3 times packages(8-10th) was all used up for one time spot removal that cost RM1200. The consultant not proper inform me on the cost and after the facial, I received a sms from them to chase the amounts. I have been went through so many big and small facial saloon but Shakura is the first saloon treat customer in such a ways. An uncomplete facial was done and I felt very stupid and annoyed for paying Rm3k+ for such services received from them.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, sorry to hear that...gosh how can they be so irresponsible by not informing you upfront?

      Delete
  26. Hi there, I just went to Shakura at Lot 10 just now, and was VERY VERY UPSET with their pushy tactic as well. Then I came back home now to Google up about Shakura, and I found your blog. OMG what you described here is EXACTLY same as what I experienced just now, every single details matched. My mom got the free gift promotion as a J-CARD member. On top of all your explanation, they were trying to do a background check, asking question like what is my job, what is my mom’s job etc, to see whether we can afford their RM10++ package. The girl who served me kept asking stupid questions which made me felt uncomfortable. For instance, I am the super dry skin type so I scratched my neck or face when it’s itchy then she said why my skin like that la? Did I consult a doctor?? Why I never do so, is it because I have NO MONEY?? It’s just a small matter like get you get a scratch or wound, no big deal and normal people do have such problem too, sikit sikit go for doctor meh?? Sarcastic questions which I didn’t even know how to answer. And just like you said, the girl who did my facial said I needed 20 session for my face/ skin problem which is RM 560/ session X 10, RM 11600K. That’s really A BIG/ HUGE AMOUNT. I am full time student, and my mom is a housewife, it is totally insane for us to spend RM10k on facial. Similar to the 40%/ 50% discounts you mentioned, I encountered the same situation too, and the girl even offered me a buy 10 free 10 promotion at around RM5600 cause she knew I as a full time student cannot afford it. She even refused to let me go out from the consultation room when I said I needed to discuss with my mom which was an excuse to run away actually, saying that why don’t she called my mom in to discuses together. Like what you said, initially I thought it requires 20 times treatment for my skin problem but then as you explained above, it is their standard tactic recommended to all customers. Their treatment is SO DAMN EXPENSIVE. Compared to my previous facial experience though the price is so MUCH CHEAPER, the service was very good with complete procedure. As for them, like you said I was in the room most of the time waiting for them to change the mask which they didn’t really do anything, nor bother to serve me, running in and out. STUPID AND LOUSY SERVICE WITH SUCH AN OVERPRICED PACKAGE, CON JOB.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sorry to hear that dear...i feel for you!!

      Delete
  27. Omg~..i just signed a 20 sessions with Shakura yesterday. How? Is there any ways to get my money refund?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi anon...omg sorry to hear that...maybe can get help from consumer tribunal?

      Delete
  28. Hi all those tactics posted here happened to me too. I signed up the package for 20 sessions. I have completed my 20 sessions and my consultant has given me an extra free one session. However, i want to share my experience, my pigmentation which looked like freckles at both my upper cheeks seemed to have grown to be dark patches and looked burned. It was hardly visible and my consultant told me that my pigmentation is deeply rooted in the dermis that they need to bring it out to the epidermis level so that the pigmentation can be removed. But now my skin looks worse off and I dun know what to do. The consultant is already talking to me about a new package to boost my immunity and no mention about my current marks. In fact during the facial sessions the consultant and her manager insisted i purchased the booster to remove thepigmentation. I told them at the initial stage they mentioned there is no more additional that i need to include apart from the package i signed and why now you mention about this. I told them I feel cheated. I am really contemplating to bring this case to the Consumer Tribunal coz they assured me with the 20 sessions my pigmentation can be removed and their advertisement says they are pigmentation expert. But look at my results. Do you have anything to share with me or anyone who had taken a case against them. Tks,

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi there. I signed up for 20 courses too and felt really bad afer that. I went back next day to tell them I cant afford it and I even tried to reduce it to 10 courses but in the end they did not speak to the management and im the end I just accepted it.
      Today I did the pigmentation removal which was done by another consultant. she used a tool which gave out some slight tingling sensation and burnt smell. And I was advised to purchase the booster, at first she said 3 months worth then it became 6 months. It is interest free for 2 years but although I was hesitant I ended up letting her swipe my card for it. While I was laying down before treatment was carried out she even offered to take my bag for me so I can hand her my card. Their tactic seems to be very gung ho. Then after that the consultant again said I need to add on other stuff.. all in it totalled up to 16k but I did not agree to swipe all as my card was limited.
      I do want to cancel this recent transaction but my last attempt failed. I dont know how I can persuade them to cancel it as I willingly signed the receipts (although I did feel giddy then probably to too much sleep during facial).
      My friend said its like I kena pukau. I do feel such heartache as think about it..its just some facial treatment and products which can cost you 5 digits!
      I hope others can share their thoughts. Yes we all feel stupid. Are we just too easily persuaded?

      Delete
    2. Hi anon and Christina, i feel so sorry to hear your experiences!! Kena pukau? Not sure, but their pushing tactic is really intimidating so it's not surprising many fall for it...but Christina, I was especially surprised that they even offered to take your bag so that you can take out your credit card? That is so ridiculous!!

      Delete
  29. i just signed up 20 sessions as well, as they said must sign up 20 sessions in order for them to remove the freckles on my face. how? really need advise, plz help? they just used machine on my face freckles today, now i really scared...thkq

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jane, I'm not sure about machine,,,coz they never used machine during my facial..I hope everything is fine!!

      Delete
  30. I was just googling about the review of Shakura and stumbleupon your blog. I had exactly the SAME experience with you even though that I did a treatment in Singapore branch. I get a promotion voucher from the internet and curious to try their facial. I made an appointment and came for the treatment. After the treatment, the therapist persuade me, even pushed me to sign up a package just like Ada did to you. It's real expensive but then she kept pushing me until I signed up for only 4-treatment-package which, for me, already cost me a lot and still they still tried to make sign up bigger package and buy their products. I really hate it and start to make a conclusion that it's just how they roll: giving promotion and push you to sign up for expensive package regardless which branch it is (Malaysia or Singapore). It's like a lesson learned for me that next time I'd better google it and read a review first.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yep, agree with you...I have learnt my lesson and will now be more cautious and careful...

      Delete
  31. New York skin is the same tactic.. Maybe everyone was hopeful the first time . Then when comes the second and third session, there is no way I will be signing or buying anything..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Because they are from the same parent company, haha~
      http://jobvacancy.me/company/276/Ames-Group-of-Companies

      Delete
  32. Saya tulis dlm bm blh yerr... sy beli voucher rm28 siap ckp no hidden charges... smggu pastu dgn senang hati sy ke shakura... consult bkn main lama then ckp muka sy kering.. skin tag... bla3... advise sy amik pakej... katenyer bila sy sign up dpt 40% diskaun... sy rase ok ler... next time leh beli produk n buat treatment dgn 40% off since sy pon x der pergi mana2 special beauty salon... dh byr rm560 br sy diberitau utk dpt diskaun kena amik pakej... sblm tu x ckp pon... pakejnyer 20 sessi... bila sy ckp x mampu, dia krgkn kpd 15 sesi... sy still ckp x blh... dia pujuk n pujuk... nk tlg itu ini... zero % bla3... last2 sy kate ok sbb blh byr later tp byr deposit dl... then tmbh 1.2K guna kad kredit... pastu sy dpt produk n buat treatment... 2 mggu lps tu sy dtg lg n setel the rest n buat treatment... then diberi 1 booster... pd sy, sy sendiri yg nk...then shud b ok lerr... lg pon dh mmg terkena... huhu... kali ke3 buat treatment x termasuk yg promosi rm28 tuu... buat treatment remover... buang skin tag... bintik2 hitam... tp buat yg kecik2 dl... pastu dia suruh sy amik booster mcm yg diberi sblm niii... booster tu slps diskaun 40% dpt rm160 utk sebotol 3ml... yg bertahan 3 hari jerr... pas 3 hari dh x leh pakai... katenyer dh teroksida. .. 1 box ader 5 botol kecik... so harga rm800 lerr... tahan 15 hari... n sy dinasihatkn ambik 10 box aka 50 botol... haha... harganyer 8K... tp sbb ambik 50, ader less 1K... so 7K... kalu beli loose 8K... sy ckp x der duit... n nnt sy ambik skit2 jer laa... dia push n sy pon ckp sy ambik 1 jerr... then sy byr rm800 guna debit kad... tp dlm bank ader 700 lbh jerr... jd sy byr rm700... the rest sy byr cash... sy keluar dr shakura dgn duit x smpai rm10 dlm tgn... kad debit x der duit... kad kredit dh lbh limit... cam bodoh jer kn... sy terpikir camner sy nk byr... hutang kad kredit pon lom setel lg n sy plak fulltime housewife... mula2 terpikir nk guna simpanan... tp suatu hari my hubby blk awal ajak pergi rumah kwn dia... katanyer kwn dia meninggal... heartattack... br mlm td sibuk berwassap... then sy terpikir... if sumthing happen kt my hubby... mcm maner sy nk survive... then sy nekad x nk beli booster... sy pm shakura punyer page... dia jwb tp juz mntk nama n no hp... esoknyer ader 5 miss called... sy rase dr shakura lerr... may b nk diskas kot... sy x jwb pon... bknnyer dh bls mesej sy... next 2 week sy ke shakura lg... tgk ler aper jd... yg pasti sy x nk beli booster... n sy rase ok jer muka walau x pakai booster... ingtkn dh amik pakej abis cerita tp byk sgt agenda tersembunyi...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Hunny...banyak habis duit tu kan? Susah-2 kita kerja dan menabung, dek tekanan dari 'beauty advisor' kita macam terpaksa sign pakej mahal-2, kalau tak jangan harap keluar dari bilik tu kalau hati tak kuat...

      Kalau Hunny rasa facial tu ok, tak apalah...tapi berpada-2 lah swip credit card tu, sebab tak berbaloi kan hutang sini sana dek sebab facial saja...

      Delete
  33. I got an message from StarHub Singapore, Shakura is giving free 1time facial during my Bday week as Bday gift. I relay got excited. Clicked on the link sign up for 1 free special. It was a good experience. Really nice and proficient sales person at Tampines Singapore. Last who did facial was calm, friendly. Extraction was a bit pain full but OK.

    Ice done they explained my son is dry and uneven tone. I need 3 fast track session or 6 normal sessions. Offer price 321S$. I read your review and then did not signup.

    In Singapore they have hired Malaysian crew who talk with a pleasing appeal.

    Hope this review helps other.

    Deb

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. hi debu999, glad that you had a nice experience, but many of us not so lucky :)

      Delete
  34. lucky read your blog, thanks for your sharing. Just realised that yun nam, new york, london, shakura, dorra is under same corporate management.Recent i visit Victoria Facelift also under same group company, no wonder tactic was same as your story. The beautician attitude also same as Ada. 30 sessions RM17,400, after 50% discount become RM8700 and Free products. As i refused to sign the package, they also show black face, giving pressure and talking how worst is my skin. lucky my mother accompany, eventually we didn't sign up, after tat they offer another package RM688 for 4 session, last treatment only can claim as your birthday, i feel that like cheating people. But now after read your article, i think is not worth to sign the package, all is low cost products selling high margins, with nice packaging. The facial was ok; after facial that moment my skin became more radiant. i rather using back mine elemente products, more safety and secure.
    Your sharing really help lot of people. Thankful.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Wynn, I'm glad that this blogpost is helpful for people to make an informed decision :)

      Delete
  35. Hye, I baru terkena semalam 22/2/2016. Luckily, just for a trial session only (RM28). Tapi dia pujuk to buy the package up to 23k. Oh mai. Then it can be discounted to as low as 1k. Nonsense. I didnt buy any one of the packages fuh so relieved. I did mine at Subang Parade. The staffs were so rude. Forcing and making face when I refused to buy the packages.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Im totally agree with you! Just tried my treatment and they forcing me to pay for rm260 to upgrade the treatment as they said my face is in very worse situation. The before after result doesnt see big different but the consultant also forcing me to say yes and force me to sign for 20times package. Then 10times and 5times because i said it is too expensive. In the end my heart was strong and didnt want to sign any package and she force me to use that rm260 as a deposit for the membership then only let me go. Bad experience here. I should read the review before i came here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Wenzi, huh...so at the end you paid Rm260 for membership? Anyway, If you are not returning to the salon, just treat the Rm260 as a 'fee' to a good lesson on pushy salon....at least we are now wiser!!

      Delete
    2. Yup, It is for the upgrade for my facial actually, but i think it is totally the same, nothing is upgrade.
      I wouldn't not enter again. lol. Just treat it as a lesson.
      Total i paid for rm 288 for just one time of facial treatment, and they only took an hour plus for the facial, just simple 2 times mask, pressing and massage that's it. It is not worth at all. Plus forcing me to sign the 20 times package which cost for
      RM 11200-40%=RM6720(RM336 per facial)
      After the facial, my face felt so itchy, i think is because of the enzyme too strong. even now sometimes i still feel the same part itchy when sweating, i dont know why but it didnt happen before the facial, only after that.
      I also bought 2 coupon for johnson protein hair treatment from the same booth. Don't dare to go. I think i will just waste it.

      Delete
    3. Well, for me after the facial my face was having red patches but not itchy, and luckily the red patches went away after few days...perhaps your skin need longer time to heal from the strong enzyme...
      I think Johnson Protein and all those hard-selling ones all have similar scheme; pushing and pressurize customers to sign package...yup, better just let the coupons burn...

      Delete
  37. thanks for sharing! I still din step in their salon got the free trial, luckily read ur review here :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Cindy, I'm glad this blogpost has helped you to make an informed decision :)

      Delete
  38. just went there today for free trial treatment.... they made me pay 50+ for deposit because i said i have to confirm with my dad whether i can continue. i was stuck in the room for always 30 mins. the consultants keep changing to convince me. so pressured. but if i only paid the deposit and don't continue the treatment, thats okay right? I'm just scared that i have to pay the cancellation fee and full treatment charge because i don't want to continue.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Natasha, you mean you have only paid RM50 and that's all? Did you sign anything?
      Seems to me the RM50 would likely get 'burned' if you choose not to return for treatment.
      I don't think they will force you to pay for the rest of the treatment charge.
      However if you are paying by credit card then it could be different story :o
      In any way, it's better to be cautious...I wish the best for you :)

      Delete
  39. hi all, you can actually fill in the feedback form at shakura's website if you have any complaints! Better inform them your experiences so further actions can be taken by them. Hope it helps!

    http://www.shakura.com.my/feedback

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ying Ching, that is very helpful :)
      I hope other readers can make use of the feedback wisely :)

      Delete
  40. I have just went for the trial session today and signed up a SGD 535 package for 10 sessions of 'maintenance package' after few rounds of negotiation when I found price for 'Treatment'are too expensive. After reading the review on facebook and blogs, noting the comments that after trial session, the standard of service dropped immediately, and also similar to other reviewers,I had 'patches' on my face & discoloration which they told me the enzyme is 'working'. I've told them beforehand near my right eye there's a patch with eczema, they said that's ok, the trial facial is or all skin type. However after I've gone home, i noticed the skin color beside the eczema area is discolored, I don't intend to go for further treatment & decided to cancel it tomorrow. Can anyone advise me how to get refund successfully, knowing they'll be tough to deal with? I seriously don't intend to continue treatment if end up i'll have to visit skin specialist to fix a problem they caused....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Unknown, I hope you would be able to get the answer soon! Perhaps try talk to the salon first? Good luck!

      Delete
  41. I went for a free trial at shakura tdy. I dint like the consultant at all.....gave me an ignorant attitude. I think this is the worst trial facial i hav been to.but Im 8 months pregnant so lucky thats y not much pestering to sign package.She told me $321 for 6 sessions. Hated the service.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Hi I also have the same experience as you...I m so stressed up everytime I visited the salon.Now I only hope to faster finish the package and stay away from all these shit

    ReplyDelete
  43. Omg...
    I was in shakura consultant room. They left me inside alone so i decided to google and i came to ur blog.. i was reading halfway.. then she came in. I experienced all the unpleadant things everyone here talked about. Omg !!! They were so pushy.. i am totally disgusted. Why did i end up here, really being so unfortunate. Hate myself for being got cheated with 5 sessions for RM1400. Felt really bad disturbed and troubled.. if only i have read ur blog a day earlier i wouldnt walk into the shop at all..i am just so unlucky sob sob !!

    ReplyDelete
  44. I cannot sleep very well since last 3.11.2016. As i have swiped my credit card for amount 9K plus. I am so stupid. But this is not Shakura, but Dorra slimming centre. I dont know why i am just nodded my head when the consultant do the talking and comenting my scary body shape. So sad i dont even not sure if i will come for first treatment next friday because our last appointment dorra said to me i have unpaid balance of 8K... :,(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Najwa...Shakura and Dorra is under same company oh...

      Delete
  45. I've been to both dorra and shakura for their free trials. I don't spend money in salons with funny names. My experience at dorra was stressful. Upon arriving there were 5-6 girls at the reception, like vultures awaiting their next roadkill. Consultation took an hour. In between the consultant kept going in and out before telling me to take off my clothes. She took pictures of me with a camera. I questioned her as I saw this as a violation- I didn't sign a contract to permit this and if there was one I'd like to read it. But I went along with it anyway cos I wanted to see how far they'd go. I couldn't understand 99% of everything bcos of her English. Post treatment, came the usual hard selling. I was so adamant it annoyed my consultant. Somewhere in between the lines she said "normal price is RM40k, but if you sign up this package it's RM10k". I was like GOD. That's batshit crazy. I told her I'd signed up with a gym the month before and I didn't need the package as my dad is filthy rich, and all I needed to do was some sweet talking to him for approval. They bought it. I also didn't have my cash or card with me (on purpose) so I didn't pay any downpayment shit like that. I went to Shakura today and I count myself lucky I didn't go through a long ass consultation before the treatment. My consultant, Suki, kept leaving the room. I was already pissed cos they reminded me 3x prior with calls and messages to the facial. Like scuse me bxtch, I came here early yeah you made that a point.. I do my part and you do yours. I think she cut the consultation short cos I told her I was looking for a new salon as my existing package elsewhere is about to run out. There were no machines btw. A lot of masks. The first was a cheap smelling one. The second was another cheap mask, with the cold steamer on. What salon would use cold steamer though? During extraction (she's also a beautician) I was really uncomfortable and I guess it showed. She meddled with some blackheads here and there on my nose area and forehead. Hardly 5 minutes. Probably since I was frowning the whole entire time. She kept pressing on my nose and I couldn't breathe. Then she applied some enzyme on my face. It hurt few parts of my face. I expressed myself and she applied another (small) bowl load of enzyme. Surprisingly that reduced the pain. She massaged that spit looking thing in my skin for about 10 mins. That's the most work I ever received from them. Other than that.. they'd just leave you on your own in the room 99% of the 2 hour session. The third mask was a sloppy clay/ seaweed looking one. I have a habit of taking off eyepads during facials. She asked "you don't want to moisture your eyes ah?" I was like no I need my phone my Zalora package is arriving today. I took a selfie with the mask. Hell yeah it was so badly applied it was weighing my neck down, dripping on my hair, and the one on my forehead was closing in on my eyes. I stayed there for half and hour, no one came. So took off the mask myself and got dressed. As soon as I got my bra on, she came in pretty shocked like wtf my customer's running away. What's appalling is, she exclaimed "HAH? You don't feel itchy ar?!" Why should I? Did you use bad products on me? I had a million things running through my head. Maybe she spat in my mask. I told her they were slow and I had to leave. I sat on the bed while she applied moisturiser. She asked if I'd grown up abroad cos in her own words, my "English is like oversea". We got to the front desk and I signed an appointment card and another card god knows what it was for. Just like that, like I just up and leave. I got a box of facial scrub as a gift. I'm not too sure. There are 3 small tubes (3ml) and one big one (25ml). Cleanser and scrub, but I'm not gonna put them on my face. Hell no. I've got my Laneige.

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    1. I should add. During consultation Suki did a skin test and while explaining the images she said my skin is not acne-prone, when in fact it is. I have a dermatologist to attest to that. She took pictures of my skin before the treatment (while I was laying and dozing off). I guess she was supposed to show me comparisons after the facial but we never did that as I left abruptly. Her massage was really bad. I have tired eyes and neck from hyperthyroid, now my neck and shoulder hurt like bruises. It was so swift I could feel her oily palm all over my widow's peak. I hated it. I washed my hair in the morning before going. When I got into my car I looked at myself in the rear view mirror and noticed the extracted areas were visibly red and very bumpy. I'm lucky she didn't do too much work. I don't have flawless skin and I don't wish for it- to those who are interested in enzyme facials, please steer clear of this place. And even if a staff has somehow picqued your interest, please be a conscious buyer. Get the free trial if you really want it. I can't convince you enough. I wouldn't say my skin improved after all that. It's somewhat brightened but that's only because they cleared away my dead skin. I seem to have some bumps on certain areas. They don't itch. They're not breakouts either. My skin just doesn't feel and look smooth like it normally would after facial. I don't know how to explain myself. The walls are paper thin too, btw. So refrain from having conversations. The whole time I was there I overheard 2 Indonesian ladies talking on my left, and 2 Chinese on my right. They don't provide designated lockers, so please don't leave your bag unattended. I held on to my purse like my dear life. I'm grateful though Suki's better than what I had at dorra. The consultant there wasn't even trying to impress me. She went through slides after slides really quickly like meteor shower kind of quickly. And she spoke very badly. I even got her name wrong. I thought it was Zoe but I later learnt it was something else. One thing about beauty salons that I hate is their poor English. I mean, if your IC is blue, have the decency to speak Malay if you can't speak English. They can never pronounce my name and I have to correct them over and over. Who am I kidding, they can't even pronounce their own 'English' name. I don't even know why I bother going to these places. I'm a cheapskate and find free treatments thrilling :| but I'm certainly sticking to my current salon.

      Delete
    2. LOL Your descriptions are hilarious! I also admit, I'm a cheapskate so when I see FREE I am so tempted. I even made an appointment, and am going to go tonight!

      However, the numerous horror stories have scared me away for good. I am going to schedule one at my normal beauty parlour this weekend. I go there often for massage (for the past 3 years) so I believe they won't hard sell so much to me.

      Free stuff = never without strings attached

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    3. I went to Victoria Facelift last week... my beautician friend raved about it once so I thought oh fine I'll go. I paid RM25 for this first trial. I went to the one in Subang Parade after gym. Prior to facial was okay, at least they didn't harass me twice or thrice with phone calls. While walking there I read the fine lines and was appalled that it was not for full-time students. But on the voucher I'd registered myself as a student. I thought oh crap I need to make up a new persona. Then it dawned on me how stupid I'd been to lie twice before about my job status... to the same company! Cos I told dorra sunway pyramid I was a student but to shakura I said I was self employed. So when I gave in my voucher at Victoria, the receptionist was like "you're a student?!" I said oh yes part time.. I'm working for my family business now -.- I didn't have money or cards on me... lied to her I left my belongings with my driver hahah she was nice to me, like normal beauty therapists, but did try to kiss ass during the facial. She tried selling but very subtly. And I had to dive into my new character and made up stories about the non existent family business.. just to keep up with the lie -.- I liked the facial way better than shakura's. Her lymphatic massage hurt so bad and she kept telling me I had toxins here and there. I didn't disclose my hyperthyroid btw. She said something like "when you have toxins you'll get headache a lot etc". I actually do but only when I hit hypothyroid... I went along with it "yeah yeah my head feels heavy all the timeee". I appreciate her genuine hard work with the massage and machines. After the facial when we reviewed my before and after photos, honestly my face was a lot brighter, dark circles SLIGHTLY improved, and somewhat 'lifted'. But I wasn't interested in their shady business so I politely turned her down kajilion times. She was now annoyed and started sulking... something you'd get when you come across an angry piano teacher and a toddler potty training. The packages were affordable- one package for 10 sessions I think it was around 1.5k but still, it came with the usual bullcrap "this promotion is only for today, and the 20% discount is only for this month". The interior is 100% similar to shakura's, software, everything. Walls are paper thin here too. Same uncomfortable beds. Same layout. And I think each beautician handles 3-4 or perhaps more customers at once. I could hear the front desk calling for beauticians to attend to customers in designated rooms. Just like shakura, I was left with my mask for 45 minutes. I was very concerned about overdrying so I took it off myself. The whole waiting time felt like forever. I felt like I was living in North Korea.. you know, how they each have a PA system in their household kitchen and receive announcements. I waited and listened to the sound of beauticians hustling in and out of rooms.

      Delete
  46. thank god, i got free session from sakura, after I read this.. I swear I never come there ..fuhh ..thanks for the review.

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  47. Good post but I was wondering if you could write a litte more on this subject? I’d be very thankful if you could elaborate a little bit further
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    ReplyDelete
  48. Hi all,

    Just went for a trial treatment from Shakura Plaza Singapura. Have read all the comments *after* I went for this trial. Looking at both sides of the coin.. I think the treatment service provided was reasonable. In fact the treatment seems rather reasonably priced.

    Then again, to each their own, not every product suits everyone, that is true.
    There is definitely hard-selling, why else would someone provide you a completely free service, if not for the opportunity to sell (or try their very best to sell(i.e hardsell))? Then again, everyone is not obligated to buy. Stand firm, don't get swayed if you do not wish to buy and just want to try.

    Also, Singapore has lemon law, they will refund you within 5 (or 7 days) of your payment. :)

    My advice (even though as anonymous) try lor, at least you can save your strength squeezing some blackheads etc and enjoy the tea, service, learn some hardsell techniques. LOL

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  49. Besides the first trial, I had signed another 3 times costing $321. (Singapore ). They promised me that my sensitive acne skin will recover 50% after the last treatment. I'm convinced. I had done 3 sessions( once a week) including the first trial. My skin really looks better than before. I think it's worst trying as my previcous skin salon cost $1200 for 10times. However , they really push ppl a lot to purchase their service. It's really hard selling.

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    1. Hard selling that make us stressful lot!!!

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  50. Shakura pigmentation is using lesser treatment...? Can I know, who knows....

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  51. OMG,i just got an email from them said that ive won their free treatment blablabla worth RM 700/++.
    Seriously,i got excited on that time sebab ive never go for facial treatment so i clicked on the link and fill my fone number and email.
    Ayoo.. Their already called me and set my appointment on this coming weekend.
    That why la my heart keep said macam suspicious aje.
    Thank god im reading your blog and comments.
    Shakura kaw kaw punya taktik tarik duit kita.

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    1. Hi YaYa, yet, there are customers who are satisfied with Shakura...I guess it depends on individual....but definitely not me >.<

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  53. I am at shakura now. Thanks God. While waiting I read your review.
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  55. I am one of the victims as well! They offered free enzyme treatment which are going to be introduced by famous taiwan expertise during the show, include scarring. My skin looks fine after the treatment, so I was persuaded to sign the treatment which cost a lot! However, after i have left their branch, the spot has darken and my face was so itchy for the whole night, with rashes! luckily the rashes faded off overnight! I am going to get the refund tomorrow, there is a cooling period of 5 days after full repayment to get a full refund. wish me good luck!

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  58. when i read the part where your weak heart gave in and bought.... i was like NOOOOoooooooo!!! U were so close to escaping. I think I used to be easily pressured into buying these but i recently trained myself, how? There has been these free one time trial facials at many such beauty salons like new york, victoria facelift, shakura, even yunnam haircare and jonnsen hair... and i went to all these, all FREE one time, not even a smallprice, its completely free. And I have my credit cards with me. But the idea is to say NO everytime. It is that simple.
    Buy 20 session? NO
    Buy 10 session? NO
    Buy 10 session at half the price? NO
    Buy 3 session at student price? NO
    If u feel awkward, it means you allowed the whole conversation to be led by the lady. Always be the lead in the convo, like take them seriously and ask what is so special abt the products used, how many sessions see results, how come can from rm560 to 180 etc... be the LEAD, then say no. no. no. and NO.
    Thats how i managed to walk out a winner with a free facial and a care set everytime

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    1. Hi agodatraveller tan, thanks for sharing!
      You are right, we got to have tough heart to lead the whole session and say NO NO NO!
      I will always remember that! ;D

      Delete
    2. i was turned off by their aggressive selling the vouchers during one of their roadshow in the curve few years back. this promoter try to hard sell their vouchers to me however, when she looked at my face like very reluctant to buy, she ignored me and went to target her new "victim" and recently my mum whom she did not aware this happened to me few years ago, asked me to buy their voucher and luckily i read the reviews here as i thought their review are better but it turns out from bad to worse

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  59. Anyone sucessful refund I just sign up 20 session. Pls share urgently

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    1. I also want to know if anybody already got refund? I signed up for 15 session and want to cancel since i never start the first session.

      Delete
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  64. Very informative and wonderful blog post. Thanks for sharing. For online discount codes and coupons please visit Zalora Discount Coupons

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  65. Experience this today and already signed up for 10 sessions but they give me discounts. Rm328 for 10 sessions. I felt reluctant at first but they keep asking hm. I should really Google first for the reviews

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  66. Gosh. I just pay RM 4000 for 15 sessions of my facial treatment and another RM 4000 for boosters serum. I wish I read your blog first before I signed up 😔

    ReplyDelete
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  70. CP moon and anyone who is reading this, it's 2023, and yes, Shakura is still using the same shabby approach to lure customers. I signed up their basic package. After failing to persuade me to upgrade to a more expensive package, the service turns bad and I have to endure the cold attitude of the beauty consultant. The last few facial sessions became really stressful. Think twice before you subscribe. There are many better beaty parlors out there, or go to see a professional dermatologist for your pigmentation problem. Don't fall into their hard selling trap.

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  71. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  72. Thanks for the post. You can also try Dr. Hauschka's provided Face wash for dry skin.

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