How Complimentary is Complimentary?

     I periodically get calls from spas and photo studios offering a free session of this and that.  I hate getting such calls and I really wish such practices would stop so I often decline such offers.  With good reason too,it seems, considering the experience of my encounter.

     So I got a call two weeks ago from B-Spa, offering me a complimentary facial. I was told that  it would be a 90-minute session of Vitamin C facial that is fully organic, not offered by any other spas, yada yada yada and she continued to expound on the benefits of said treatment. I was reluctant at first considering the out-of-the-way locale but as she went on and on I thought, what the heck, a facial would do me good. I was envisioning being relaxed and having a face massage at the same time so arranged for a session last week on Monday.

     I got there at the appointed time and got settled in and such while the beauty consultant cleansed my face, gave me a review and all that. Now I know I have issues with my skin but I was not there for anything other than the complimentary facial that was promised to me. She tried to get me to spend $88 on a treatment that would suit my skin condition, which she assured me was a discounted price from the supposedly $188 price.

     I can be quite a pushover for such deals but this time I stood firm and reiterated that I just wanted the complimentary facial.  She was fine with it but suddenly, surprise surprise, my skin was too dirty to do the facial so she would only be able to do the aloe vera face mask.  My mind reeled at the turn of events!   Right.... I can see where this was going.  Oh by the way, this consultation was given while I was on my back in the dark, my eyes covered with cotton and  the lamp shining into my face! Good move, yes? NOT!

     I was really fuming by the time I was finished but I tried to rein in my temper and didn't make eye contact with any of the staff and was quick to leave the premises. I basically went all the way there to open up my pores etc and have an aloe vera face mask and the whole treatment lasted just a little after half an hour! What a friggin' waste of time! Aaargh! I could have done the face mask by myself at home!

     So much for no obligations attached to the complimentary facial!  So much for B-Spa being an established spa with a reputation!  Bogus is bogus no matter how you sugar coat it!  Suffice to say I shan't be returning nor will I promote the place to anyone else!