Dermclinic at SM Fairview Branch
(A Consumer’s Review)
by
Eunice
yunesa@yahoo.com
I went to this branch of Dermclinic which is located at the LG/F, SM City Fairview. Their one liner says they are the true skin and hair clinic. I remember, more than ten years ago, when facial therapies were not yet that popular, I have been seeing a lot of Dermclinic’s establishments in malls. My first impression during those days was that these clinics are only for those who have dermatological problems and thus are “patients”, so you do not enter Dermclinic just to have your normal routine of a beauty facial therapy. But today they have also changed to include facial therapies. So one morning of July 17,2009 I went to try one of their “medical facials”, I wanted to see what are the similarities and/or differences between other facial and beauty centers/therapies out there with Dermclinic and I hope I was not missing out on fabulous treatments. But when I tried to book for an early 11am facial, the receptionist told me to come back at 1 pm (after lunch) because she does not have anyone yet who will be left at the reception area. So obligingly I did.
At 1:05pm, I returned and was asked to wait for another 10 minutes. Meanwhile, I was observing the ambiance inside Dermclinic which is comparable to a doctor’s clinic lounge. There is a water dispenser just right beside the sofa lounge, there are no clients waiting in line, there are retail products for hair and skin displayed behind the long sofa. Instead of music, it has a television on top of the retail shelves which during that time was airing a lunch time program in a local network here in the Philippines. If you are someone looking for a “spa” type of lounge, do not expect it here. What I like about their ambiance though is its professional and tidy looking set-up giving us the notion that what you will get are medical-based facial therapies. Another thing I like about my first visit, is that the receptionist told me to fill up a client intake (or patient assessment) form before my facial so details like my allergies or skin conditions that I am most worried about were asked. This gives me the peace of mind that the center does really take data and information about their clients important, for me that is a big plus, as each of our skin is different.
Upon looking at their list of facial services/ price list, I found that a medical facial treatment costs Php 395.00 (approximately $8.00). If you choose to add an “add-on” like pore-minimizer, anti-wrinkle, lymphatic drainage or a galvanic eye treatment you will have to add Php 100.00 (approximately $1.00) while an oxygen therapy is Php 200.00 (approximately $4.00) - not bad. If you will again opt to add any mask aside from these add-ons you can either choose a forming mask, whitening mask and a collagen mask which all costs Php 100.00 each (approximately $1.00). If on the other hand, you opt to try any of these specialized facials like a total rejuvenating facial, anti-aging facial, intense whitening facial, the cost of each is Php 695.00 (approximately $14.00), still not bad. The lower priced facial is the collagen firming facial costing only Php 495.00 (approximately $10.00) and the higher priced facial is the anti-aging facial which is Php 695.00 (approximately $16.00). So for my first time with them, I tried the medical facial with an add-on of anti-wrinkle treatment plus a whitening mask. A total of Php 595.00 (approximately $12.00).
After my wait time is over I was ushered inside by another staff, who is wearing a white coat/uniform similar to medical staffs in a hospital but without the usual name plates. There were no names on their uniform and the staff did not introduce herself so I wasn’t sure what to call them. I was assisted to put on a white Dermclinic facial robe and a hair band. I was asked to wash my hands with a bar of soap and wash my face with a liquid soap or should I say cleanser because it did not produce any bubbles. It is odorless, it feels similar to the brand Cetaphil (take note that I did not say it is this type of brand but it feels like it anyway, maybe a local brand but of similar composition). What I like about my washing session is that she did not give me any towel instead I was asked to use the facial tissue, which I like because it assures me that someone has not yet used what I have used. Not that I am against using a sanitized, clean and laundered facial towel. But this is a nice change for awhile. If you are to think about it, this might be a good alternative to a facial towel because it’s more economical for management. No laundries to take care of anyway.
When the staff asked me to lie down I became conscious because everything was in white including the facial bed cover and I was worried that my shoes might stain it. So I removed my shoes and lay down. The staff applied cleanser and then with mechanical revolving foam, applied it all over my face. After that was the facial massage, what strikes me during my facial massage is that she massaged my face while wearing gloves. Hummmm….not very relaxing and might make the client feel that they have a contagious skin disease. This has its pros and cons on the side of the staff and on the side of the client. If someone has any fungal infections or warts, the staff might contract it while most don’t they might feel intimidated by the facial massage with gloves. Then came a ten minute steaming session, then facial brushes (you know the type that revolves and its mechanical head can be changed to a small brush or a bigger sized brush or sometimes a foam but in this medical facial treatment, the facial therapist only used the two types of brush) then the galvanic machine which of course, will just feel a cold temperature from the application of the heads of the machines rolling over your face. Then mask agad (right after). The staff immediately left me but before leaving she asked me if I wanted a magazine which I did. I like that she asked but if ever you are expecting more while waiting for your mask to dry up like a relaxing shoulder massage, head massage, or a warm hand mittens and massage- if you are also after these special add-on services, you will not get it here. During the time when I was waiting for my mask to dry up and had my facial therapist return to remove the mask, I remembered that consumers have also evolved in the way they view facial therapies. Gone are the days that people view facial centers as establishments only for those with serious skin conditions. Now people are becoming aware that they need to take care of their skin as well as their body. They want more than just the usual routine doctor and patient relationship and they will find ways of fulfilling their desires by looking for other healthcare professionals who offer a similar experience and almost the same (if not the same or even better) results. If you are the type who just visits for a beauty ritual or skin care maintenance, if you are just a “validoso” or “validosa” (someone who is beauty conscious) and do not have any medically related concerns for your skin, you might choose other facial centers or a medical spa instead. If, on the other hand, you have a skin disorder, I think a visit to Dermclinic as well as other dermatology clinics will be a better choice.
So came the time that my mask has to be removed. She sprayed distilled water to remove the mask. Then, came the extraction time. I wonder if she forgot to extract before my mask or that is their usual routine for a medical facial. ummHummm….Hummmm…until now, I don’t understand the logic or scientific explanation behind this. Mask first before the extraction? Anyway, after this came my LASER treatment (which again is using a high frequency machine NOT the real LASER). Again, I don’t understand why my staff told me that she will be applying a LASER….Hummmm…isn’t this a medical clinic? And believe me I did not hear her wrong. Anyway, I like that the staff did not use anything to make to applicators for high frequency machine slide on my skin because I like the smell of the current. Since they are made of glass tubing, I also like the feeling of current running on my cheeks and forehead and nose. Also, a direct application, with the use of glass electrode is very effective for oily skin conditions like mine. Let me give a very short idea on how it is like. The applicators for high frequency current are made of glass tubes from which the air has been removed. When the current passes through the tube, it causes it to light up with a violet reddish colored discharge producing a buzzing sound. These tubes in fact, come in different shapes for treating various skin areas like the hair, scalp, face, etc. Other facial centers use it with a lotion, cream, gel in combination with a high-frequency current. It is possible (though rare) for the violet reddish spark to cause combustion so it is always best to know whether the ingredients used in combination with the high frequency are flammable. In this case, they did not apply anything at all with the high frequency machine, so no need to worry. Except if the glass tubing broke on my face--- hehehe----which is almost impossible because it is always applied with very little pressure. Just to let the glass tubing slide on my face. Ahhh….if I can only request that the high frequency be applied longer than usual….but of course, I would not because I know that too much exposure to hf current is also not good for my skin.
After my session is over I was assisted to remove my hair band and my white robe. Overall when its time to pay my bills my instant dilemma is if I have to tip because generally one does not give tips to staffs inside a medical facility. Anyway, they might feel insulted so I opt not to. In the meantime, I asked the receptionist to differentiate the facial therapies to me instead, she presented a book with all the procedures they do. I like this because I get to really know what is behind their list of services and what I would expect during the facial. For anti-aging facial I saw that they will be applying a topical Botox and for the non-surgical facelift they will be applying a lift mask and what they call a miracle firm. A total rejuvenating facial has eight steps all in all while a medical facial doesn’t have some of those steps. Then that was the time that I finally had the courage to ask the name of the staff who attended to me, her name was Grace.
The website (http://www.dermclinic.com.ph/) is a well designed website which also doubles as their brochure. I think what might be lacking is the friendliness of their staff. You know, the kind that you would want to return, not because you needed it but because you feel rejuvenated and at home there. The level of service, explanation and performance I received was not that exceptional. Overall, I would give a 79% to this experience. So the next time I visit, I might try their other services.
More about them: I like that the reception area has the business card of their chief dermatologist who is Dr. Vinzon Pineda and that their main clinic is in Legaspi Village Makati. It also has a list of their branches nationwide so I get to have their contact details and call them up beforehand.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guidelines in the writing of this blog were observed, click on the link below to read about my guidelines
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/07/consumer-and-spa-enthusiasts-review.html
The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guidehttp://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book (this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.
1. You can order it online via http://www.amazon.com/ at 34.95$
2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99
3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at http://www.yunesa.blogspot.com/ at $19.95
4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos
5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days
If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.
This review was written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy
These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book
If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from http://www.amazon.com/ or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.
TERMS OF REPRINT
You can freely distribute a copy of this review provided, that you follow the terms of reprint. Be certain to read our TERMS OF REPRINT and honor our TERMS OF REPRINT when you use this review. Thank you.
Helpful Link: The Digital Millennium Copyright Act – Overview http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/iclp/dmca1.htm
Our TERMS OF REPRINT are fully enforcible under the terms of: The Digital Millennium Copyright Acthttp://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c105:H.R.2281.ENR:*** Digital Reprint Rights **** If you publish this article in a website/forum/ blog, etc. You Must Set All URL's or Mailto Addresses in the body of the article AND in the Author's Resource Box as Hyperlinks (clickable links).* Links must remain in the form that we published them. Clean links should point to the Author's links without redirects having been inserted into the copy.* You are not allowed to Change or Delete any Words or Links in the review or Resource Box. Paragraph breaks must be retained with articles. You can change where the paragraph breaks fall, but you cannot eliminate all paragraph breaks as some have chosen to do.* Email Distribution of this review must be done through Opt-in Email Only. No Unsolicited Commercial Email.* You are allowed to format the layout of the review for proper display of the article in your website or in your ezine, so long as you can maintain the author's interests within the article.* You may not use sentences from this review as an input for any software that steals sentences from others in order to build an article with software. The copyright on this article applies to the "WHOLE" article.*** Author Notification ***we ask that you notify the author of publication of her work. Eunice can be reached at: http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com*** Print Publication Reprint Rights ***If you desire to publish this review in a PRINT publication, you must contact the author directly for Print Permission at: mailto:http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com============ ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= The content of this review is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice
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Showing posts with label derma. Show all posts
Showing posts with label derma. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Nisce Skin 'N Face Facial Salon and Derma Clinic
Nisce Skin 'N Face Facial Salon and Derma Clinic
(Consumer Review)
by Eunice
yunesa@yahoo.com
I went to the newly opened branch of Nisce (pronounced as Nis-sey) Skin and Face Facial Salon and Derma Clinic located at the Annex II Building, SM Fairview, and Quezon City on the morning of June 9th and the other on July 03. In this area I call it, the “Beauty Strip” because the line-up of stores is all into facial, spa, salon and beauty establishments. I chose Nisce facial center for my “me” time because its located in a mall only five minutes away from my residence and since they are new I wanted to try them out.
On both visits I went at around 11am which are considered lay-away slots, meaning those are the times where there are less number of clients. The first time I left at around 2pm and the second time at around 1pm. The reception area looks nice and clean, with a medi-spa touch of ambiance on the outside and judging from the look of the establishment, you will think that it’s expensive…until I saw their service price. Wow! Prices are very reasonable. The lowest priced facial called the Nisce Basic Facial, costs two hundred fifty pesos (approximately $5.00). Then for two hundred pesos more (approximately $4.00) you will get an eye bag and an eye wrinkle treatment on top of your basic facial. But in both instances, I chose the anti-aging facial with a deep cleaning seaweed mask then, had my massage afterwards. During my first time, I chose their Tranquility full body one hour combination of Swedish, Shiatsu and Thai massage for three hundred fifty pesos (approximately $7.00). On the second visit I experienced a thirty minute Dagdagay foot therapy for 220 pesos (approximately $4.25) in place of the massage which I shall talk about later.
The general area looks tidy. You will see two reclining chairs for the foot and hand services then four massage beds having approximately two feet-space in between each other. I think this will be an advantage for the facial therapist who can move on the left side of the client during pricking and for the clients who will not also feel cramped-up. For people who does not want another client directly beside them, this is good.
Let us start first with my facial. My therapist's name was Jenny and she used a hypoallergenic cleanser first on my face (it is privately labeled and only for in-spa use). I instantly liked the facial cleanser because it smells like flowers and quickly relaxes you. Di ba pag hindi maganda ang amoy ng first product application pa lang eh parang hindi na nakaka-relax but this one, has a nice smell. Plus, she included neck cleansing which is similar to a European facial. Then Jenny steamed my face for 10 minutes which is the part that I hate the most, because I hate to be left there alone. (Most of the time during facial steaming the staff will leave you alone with damp cotton pads on your eye.) Second, I do not like steam and heat although I am fully aware that this is needed to open my pores so I need to just ignore it. Ika nga eh, magtiis ka kung gusto mo talagang gumanda (In short, you need to ignore some parts of the session that you do not like to experience because you want to be beautiful! J). After the steaming come extractions, the most painful part. I sometimes shed some tears because of painful pricking to remove all those comedones (white heads, black heads, zits and zats) and dirt on my face. That I would not normally do myself because of the pain it causes. Anyway, I am kinda used to it na so I have to bear the short painful extraction part again. The thing that distracts me during the extraction is the sudden tapping of the comedone extractor since it is made of stainless steel and they tap it to remove the dirt that is lodged in it. I hope they can just use a tissue to wipe it off. I like the suction/ vacuum and I wish the pressure could be increased. Although others might prefer the gentler suction- I am the opposite. My favorite part is the application of the high frequency machine (commonly termed by others as LASER but in fact, this is not a LASER, a LASER is an acronym for Light Amplified Simulated Emission Radioisotope- this is a high frequency machine not a LASER mainly because it emits visible light) but in this case, no creams were applied to make it easier for the glass rod to slide through my face, I think I like this technique better than those high frequency machine that are being applied together with a gel or a cream because I get to be directly applied an hf current. Talagang naaamoy ko yung current (I can smell the current). Then came the facial masking part, their mask is contained in a very small plastic container for just one usage. For one, this is advantageous on the part of management because it prevents spoilage of products not being used but contained in large containers, it also avoids contamination and it will also deter staff to take home any products which have not been consumed by the client. Suffice to say that, I also love the smell of this facial masque. The mask was sponged off and after the masque, they get to clean again my face. Then Jenny sprayed the toner all over my face (again, I like how their toner smells, it does not smell like it has an alcohol base) What strikes me is that, after the masque where you expect that the facial treatment is over, they will again apply a cleanser and anti-allergy cream and perform a 5 minute facial, head, neck and shoulder massage. I think the logic behind this is to relax and at least minimize the pain that the client went through during the session so the client gets to remember more of how relaxing and how nice it is to have a facial rather than the painful extraction procedure. Overall, I enjoyed my Facial experience!
Then let us go to my massage and Dagdagay experience. In my first visit, I had the Tranquility massage (a combination of Swedish, Shiatsu and Thai massage) which was rather common. Nothing fancy. The second time, it was Rose who gave me the Dagdagay session, it’s a traditional Ifugao foot massage where she used small bamboo ticks to tap your toes and the sole of your foot. I think inside this particular mall at SM, Nisce is the only one which offers Dagdagay so you one does not have to go to Ifugao or Baguio to experience a little bit about our culture. Although I must say that “medyo bitin” kasi I am in a hurry and I can only spare 30 minutes of my time. This is not my first time to experience Dagdagay, the techniques Rose used are more gentler than the one I experienced in Baguio. I do not know what type of massage oil Rose used but according to Rose its an aroma oil. Based on the price, Tranquility massage for an hour is Php350 pesos ($7.00) and Dagdagay foot therapy for 30 minutes is Php220 ($4.25) I think that this is a mineral oil. So might as well bring your own (if they allow you to use your own massage oil) or come to think of it, they should have a different price for services using aromatherapy massage oil.
The over-all area is clean and hygienic. Sounds were relaxing. The materials used including cotton balls, small containers, facial trolleys, etc. are clean, hygienic and in order. There is a common toilet with light brown tiles, dry and small but clean. Right outside this common toilet is a sink with hot and cold water. Unfortunately there is no wall-mounted mirror which I think this area lacks because clients need to see how they look after their facial session. The first time I went there, I got to use the shower and toilet for massage clients. I like that it serves dual in function because couples can use it and it is in between two massage areas. But since there is no glass in their shower area, the water drips outside the curtains and it wets including the toilet, flooding it a bit.
Let us talk about the staff: The accommodating receptionist was nice but she is not yet familiar with the therapists and what specialties they offer. I am not sure if her name was Michelle or Rhea. Some staff have dual roles like Rose or Rosa (which acts as a massage therapist and facial therapist, manicurist, pedicurist, etc.) whom I have interviewed a bit and had known that she has already more than 10 years of experience in different spas. Jenny my facial therapist who attended to me the second time, only performs facial. Staff were courteous and friendly. I inquired if they had a website and since the staff didn’t know, I had to search for it on Google. I strongly recommend that you visit it first and check out the services offered then when you schedule your visit you can ask what services are available at that branch and get the procedure you want.
Other information about them includes that it is owned and operated by ETN Beauty Concepts, Inc., they have Beauty centers located in various malls in Metro Manila with their flagship branch at SM Megamall and in Northern Luzon including La Union (their head office is in San Fernando city), Dagupan, Baguio and Pangasinan. Their website is http://www.nisceskin.com/. The head trainer and Chief Aesthetics Officer is Marie Antoinette T. Nisce, a Singapore and UK certified Aesthetician. Their dermatologists are also available for consultation and dermatological services.I have yet to experience more of what they offer because I think they have more interesting services that I have yet to experience and if you were to ask me, my overall rating for this branch is 83%. Price-wise they are a steal. I feel it is a good value just based on the price. Hopefully, they get their share of clients on this side of the “Beauty strip”.
Third time to visit Nisce for a Massage
The third time I visited this particular Nisce branch and had my Tranquility massage. Based on menu and price list, this is a combination of Swedish, Shiatsu and Thai massage. You can have two options the 30 minutes (back massage only) for 250- Pesos (approximately $5.00) and the one hour massage (whole body) for 350 Pesos ($7.00). On both occasions, I remembered that Tricia was the one who gave me the massage.
What I like about the massage:
1. Tricia placed a towel bolster under my bent legs whenever possible. It makes my feet and legs comfortable.
2. Tricia also gave me clear instructions about how to get up from my lying (supine) position and what to do after my massage (e.g. do not take a cold shower, drink cold water, etc.)
What I don’t like about the massage:
1. Tricia forgot to ask me how her pressure was so I have to tell her to exert more pressure on my shoulders, unfortunately she did not exert too much pressure at all. Feeling that she might not have the strength to do so stopped me from asking for more. We have different preferences and I prefer a medium to hard (in between the two) type of pressure.
2. As I noticed, she does not also observe correct body mechanics while performing the massage.There should be more pressure exerted on some parts than on others and she should be sensitive on the reaction or directions of the client.
3. The pace of her massage techniques were quite fast not very relaxing for a supposed to be tranquility massage.
Overall rating for this visit: Fair (78%) but still gave her a Php 100.00 ($2.00 tip).
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Guidelines in the writing of this blog were observed, click on the link below to read about my guidelines
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/07/consumer-and-spa-enthusiasts-review.html
The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guidehttp://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book (this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.
1. You can order it online via http://www.amazon.com/ at 34.95$
2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99
3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at http://www.yunesa.blogspot.com/ at $19.95
4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos
5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days
If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.
This review was written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy
These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book
If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from http://www.amazon.com/ or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.
TERMS OF REPRINT
You can freely distribute a copy of this review provided, that you follow the terms of reprint. Be certain to read our TERMS OF REPRINT and honor our TERMS OF REPRINT when you use this review. Thank you.
Helpful Link: The Digital Millennium Copyright Act – Overview http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/iclp/dmca1.htm
Our TERMS OF REPRINT are fully enforcible under the terms of: The Digital Millennium Copyright Acthttp://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c105:H.R.2281.ENR:*** Digital Reprint Rights **** If you publish this article in a website/forum/ blog, etc. You Must Set All URL's or Mailto Addresses in the body of the article AND in the Author's Resource Box as Hyperlinks (clickable links).* Links must remain in the form that we published them. Clean links should point to the Author's links without redirects having been inserted into the copy.* You are not allowed to Change or Delete any Words or Links in the review or Resource Box. Paragraph breaks must be retained with articles. You can change where the paragraph breaks fall, but you cannot eliminate all paragraph breaks as some have chosen to do.* Email Distribution of this review must be done through Opt-in Email Only. No Unsolicited Commercial Email.* You are allowed to format the layout of the review for proper display of the article in your website or in your ezine, so long as you can maintain the author's interests within the article.* You may not use sentences from this review as an input for any software that steals sentences from others in order to build an article with software. The copyright on this article applies to the "WHOLE" article.*** Author Notification ***We ask that you notify the author of publication of her work. Eunice can be reached at: http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com*** Print Publication Reprint Rights ***If you desire to publish this review in a PRINT publication, you must contact the author directly for Print Permission at: mailto:http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com============ ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= The content of this review is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice
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(Consumer Review)
by Eunice
yunesa@yahoo.com
I went to the newly opened branch of Nisce (pronounced as Nis-sey) Skin and Face Facial Salon and Derma Clinic located at the Annex II Building, SM Fairview, and Quezon City on the morning of June 9th and the other on July 03. In this area I call it, the “Beauty Strip” because the line-up of stores is all into facial, spa, salon and beauty establishments. I chose Nisce facial center for my “me” time because its located in a mall only five minutes away from my residence and since they are new I wanted to try them out.
On both visits I went at around 11am which are considered lay-away slots, meaning those are the times where there are less number of clients. The first time I left at around 2pm and the second time at around 1pm. The reception area looks nice and clean, with a medi-spa touch of ambiance on the outside and judging from the look of the establishment, you will think that it’s expensive…until I saw their service price. Wow! Prices are very reasonable. The lowest priced facial called the Nisce Basic Facial, costs two hundred fifty pesos (approximately $5.00). Then for two hundred pesos more (approximately $4.00) you will get an eye bag and an eye wrinkle treatment on top of your basic facial. But in both instances, I chose the anti-aging facial with a deep cleaning seaweed mask then, had my massage afterwards. During my first time, I chose their Tranquility full body one hour combination of Swedish, Shiatsu and Thai massage for three hundred fifty pesos (approximately $7.00). On the second visit I experienced a thirty minute Dagdagay foot therapy for 220 pesos (approximately $4.25) in place of the massage which I shall talk about later.
The general area looks tidy. You will see two reclining chairs for the foot and hand services then four massage beds having approximately two feet-space in between each other. I think this will be an advantage for the facial therapist who can move on the left side of the client during pricking and for the clients who will not also feel cramped-up. For people who does not want another client directly beside them, this is good.
Let us start first with my facial. My therapist's name was Jenny and she used a hypoallergenic cleanser first on my face (it is privately labeled and only for in-spa use). I instantly liked the facial cleanser because it smells like flowers and quickly relaxes you. Di ba pag hindi maganda ang amoy ng first product application pa lang eh parang hindi na nakaka-relax but this one, has a nice smell. Plus, she included neck cleansing which is similar to a European facial. Then Jenny steamed my face for 10 minutes which is the part that I hate the most, because I hate to be left there alone. (Most of the time during facial steaming the staff will leave you alone with damp cotton pads on your eye.) Second, I do not like steam and heat although I am fully aware that this is needed to open my pores so I need to just ignore it. Ika nga eh, magtiis ka kung gusto mo talagang gumanda (In short, you need to ignore some parts of the session that you do not like to experience because you want to be beautiful! J). After the steaming come extractions, the most painful part. I sometimes shed some tears because of painful pricking to remove all those comedones (white heads, black heads, zits and zats) and dirt on my face. That I would not normally do myself because of the pain it causes. Anyway, I am kinda used to it na so I have to bear the short painful extraction part again. The thing that distracts me during the extraction is the sudden tapping of the comedone extractor since it is made of stainless steel and they tap it to remove the dirt that is lodged in it. I hope they can just use a tissue to wipe it off. I like the suction/ vacuum and I wish the pressure could be increased. Although others might prefer the gentler suction- I am the opposite. My favorite part is the application of the high frequency machine (commonly termed by others as LASER but in fact, this is not a LASER, a LASER is an acronym for Light Amplified Simulated Emission Radioisotope- this is a high frequency machine not a LASER mainly because it emits visible light) but in this case, no creams were applied to make it easier for the glass rod to slide through my face, I think I like this technique better than those high frequency machine that are being applied together with a gel or a cream because I get to be directly applied an hf current. Talagang naaamoy ko yung current (I can smell the current). Then came the facial masking part, their mask is contained in a very small plastic container for just one usage. For one, this is advantageous on the part of management because it prevents spoilage of products not being used but contained in large containers, it also avoids contamination and it will also deter staff to take home any products which have not been consumed by the client. Suffice to say that, I also love the smell of this facial masque. The mask was sponged off and after the masque, they get to clean again my face. Then Jenny sprayed the toner all over my face (again, I like how their toner smells, it does not smell like it has an alcohol base) What strikes me is that, after the masque where you expect that the facial treatment is over, they will again apply a cleanser and anti-allergy cream and perform a 5 minute facial, head, neck and shoulder massage. I think the logic behind this is to relax and at least minimize the pain that the client went through during the session so the client gets to remember more of how relaxing and how nice it is to have a facial rather than the painful extraction procedure. Overall, I enjoyed my Facial experience!
Then let us go to my massage and Dagdagay experience. In my first visit, I had the Tranquility massage (a combination of Swedish, Shiatsu and Thai massage) which was rather common. Nothing fancy. The second time, it was Rose who gave me the Dagdagay session, it’s a traditional Ifugao foot massage where she used small bamboo ticks to tap your toes and the sole of your foot. I think inside this particular mall at SM, Nisce is the only one which offers Dagdagay so you one does not have to go to Ifugao or Baguio to experience a little bit about our culture. Although I must say that “medyo bitin” kasi I am in a hurry and I can only spare 30 minutes of my time. This is not my first time to experience Dagdagay, the techniques Rose used are more gentler than the one I experienced in Baguio. I do not know what type of massage oil Rose used but according to Rose its an aroma oil. Based on the price, Tranquility massage for an hour is Php350 pesos ($7.00) and Dagdagay foot therapy for 30 minutes is Php220 ($4.25) I think that this is a mineral oil. So might as well bring your own (if they allow you to use your own massage oil) or come to think of it, they should have a different price for services using aromatherapy massage oil.
The over-all area is clean and hygienic. Sounds were relaxing. The materials used including cotton balls, small containers, facial trolleys, etc. are clean, hygienic and in order. There is a common toilet with light brown tiles, dry and small but clean. Right outside this common toilet is a sink with hot and cold water. Unfortunately there is no wall-mounted mirror which I think this area lacks because clients need to see how they look after their facial session. The first time I went there, I got to use the shower and toilet for massage clients. I like that it serves dual in function because couples can use it and it is in between two massage areas. But since there is no glass in their shower area, the water drips outside the curtains and it wets including the toilet, flooding it a bit.
Let us talk about the staff: The accommodating receptionist was nice but she is not yet familiar with the therapists and what specialties they offer. I am not sure if her name was Michelle or Rhea. Some staff have dual roles like Rose or Rosa (which acts as a massage therapist and facial therapist, manicurist, pedicurist, etc.) whom I have interviewed a bit and had known that she has already more than 10 years of experience in different spas. Jenny my facial therapist who attended to me the second time, only performs facial. Staff were courteous and friendly. I inquired if they had a website and since the staff didn’t know, I had to search for it on Google. I strongly recommend that you visit it first and check out the services offered then when you schedule your visit you can ask what services are available at that branch and get the procedure you want.
Other information about them includes that it is owned and operated by ETN Beauty Concepts, Inc., they have Beauty centers located in various malls in Metro Manila with their flagship branch at SM Megamall and in Northern Luzon including La Union (their head office is in San Fernando city), Dagupan, Baguio and Pangasinan. Their website is http://www.nisceskin.com/. The head trainer and Chief Aesthetics Officer is Marie Antoinette T. Nisce, a Singapore and UK certified Aesthetician. Their dermatologists are also available for consultation and dermatological services.I have yet to experience more of what they offer because I think they have more interesting services that I have yet to experience and if you were to ask me, my overall rating for this branch is 83%. Price-wise they are a steal. I feel it is a good value just based on the price. Hopefully, they get their share of clients on this side of the “Beauty strip”.
Third time to visit Nisce for a Massage
The third time I visited this particular Nisce branch and had my Tranquility massage. Based on menu and price list, this is a combination of Swedish, Shiatsu and Thai massage. You can have two options the 30 minutes (back massage only) for 250- Pesos (approximately $5.00) and the one hour massage (whole body) for 350 Pesos ($7.00). On both occasions, I remembered that Tricia was the one who gave me the massage.
What I like about the massage:
1. Tricia placed a towel bolster under my bent legs whenever possible. It makes my feet and legs comfortable.
2. Tricia also gave me clear instructions about how to get up from my lying (supine) position and what to do after my massage (e.g. do not take a cold shower, drink cold water, etc.)
What I don’t like about the massage:
1. Tricia forgot to ask me how her pressure was so I have to tell her to exert more pressure on my shoulders, unfortunately she did not exert too much pressure at all. Feeling that she might not have the strength to do so stopped me from asking for more. We have different preferences and I prefer a medium to hard (in between the two) type of pressure.
2. As I noticed, she does not also observe correct body mechanics while performing the massage.There should be more pressure exerted on some parts than on others and she should be sensitive on the reaction or directions of the client.
3. The pace of her massage techniques were quite fast not very relaxing for a supposed to be tranquility massage.
Overall rating for this visit: Fair (78%) but still gave her a Php 100.00 ($2.00 tip).
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http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/07/consumer-and-spa-enthusiasts-review.html
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TERMS OF REPRINT
You can freely distribute a copy of this review provided, that you follow the terms of reprint. Be certain to read our TERMS OF REPRINT and honor our TERMS OF REPRINT when you use this review. Thank you.
Helpful Link: The Digital Millennium Copyright Act – Overview http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/iclp/dmca1.htm
Our TERMS OF REPRINT are fully enforcible under the terms of: The Digital Millennium Copyright Acthttp://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c105:H.R.2281.ENR:*** Digital Reprint Rights **** If you publish this article in a website/forum/ blog, etc. You Must Set All URL's or Mailto Addresses in the body of the article AND in the Author's Resource Box as Hyperlinks (clickable links).* Links must remain in the form that we published them. Clean links should point to the Author's links without redirects having been inserted into the copy.* You are not allowed to Change or Delete any Words or Links in the review or Resource Box. Paragraph breaks must be retained with articles. You can change where the paragraph breaks fall, but you cannot eliminate all paragraph breaks as some have chosen to do.* Email Distribution of this review must be done through Opt-in Email Only. No Unsolicited Commercial Email.* You are allowed to format the layout of the review for proper display of the article in your website or in your ezine, so long as you can maintain the author's interests within the article.* You may not use sentences from this review as an input for any software that steals sentences from others in order to build an article with software. The copyright on this article applies to the "WHOLE" article.*** Author Notification ***We ask that you notify the author of publication of her work. Eunice can be reached at: http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com*** Print Publication Reprint Rights ***If you desire to publish this review in a PRINT publication, you must contact the author directly for Print Permission at: mailto:http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com============ ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= The content of this review is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice
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