Were you ever enticed by newspaper advertisements that announce low prices for expensive beauty packages? Flip through the local newspaper and chances are you will come across several adverts that read: 20 slimming sessions for $189, Make-over session for half the original price – Just $49 Limited Period Only, Innovative Gold Mask Facial for $88- usual $200 etc.
Like thousands of people out there, I was taken in by such gimmicks. Two years ago, I came across a tummy trimming advertisement that offered a trial price of just $88 for 20 sessions that covered 10 sessions of machine-enhanced massage threatment and 10 free sessions of Far Infrared Therapy on two areas of the lower body. Knowing that such treatments normally cost thousands of dollars, I took the opportunity to try the ‘oh so good to be true’ offer. During the cellulite assessment session, the consultant talked me into signing up for another treatment session called Fat Blaster costing $2200 for 20 sessions. I refused and stuck to the original deal.
That was not the end of my sales transaction with the beauty consultant. The free Far Infrared Therapy treatment did not well work on me as I felt an intense burning sensation on my tummy area hours after the session. I requested for a replacement and was recommended another treatment using a suction-pad like machine that facilitates in the draining of fatty deposits, leading to the eventual flattening of the tummy area. That cost me an additional $1500, a far cry from the original ‘sounds good’ offer of $88. The horror didn’t end there. I was constantly monitored by the same consultant who hovered around me like a hawk after each session and persistently tried to up sell the package claiming that a certain recommended treatment guaranteed more effective results. Another sales gimmick used is to get customers to try new treatments for free in the hope of selling upgraded packages to customers. Once you agree to try it, be prepared for a lengthy sales pitch by the consultant.
The following are gimmicks used by sales people in almost any industry:
1. Buy one get one free
Would you buy something just to get the same item for free? This makes sense if you use the item regularly. Such items include toiletries or household products. Beware of shelf life though. You don’t need a duplicate accessory or cosmetic item such as lip gloss or eye shadow unless you are planning to give away the free item. Would you even use the second item if you have never tried using the first? If this is the case, then forget about buying it.
2. Buy a total of $50 and you will be entitled to a free gift
Do you want to fork out extra money just to get something free which you may not even use? Don’t be tempted by such gimmicks. It will be practical to get just get the item you need and forget about the free item and save the extra money.
3. Try a new treatment for a good recommended price
If the price quoted for a package is too high for your budget, negotiate further if you are really interested in the product or treatment. Do not be trapped into being obliged to sign up or buy. This may happen if you are not interested in purchasing but mindlessly negotiate anyway, not realising that a deal may eventually have to be struck at your consultant’s persistent efforts to gain a commission. Don’t hesitate to probe your sales or beauty consultant further. If a particular slimming treatment costs an additional price of $2000 for 20 sessions, ask how long such a treatment per session will be. Would you pay $100 for a 10 minute session in the hope of flattening your tummy or getting a face lift? Do bear in mind that such a treatment will be ongoing as discontinuing it after the last session will mean getting back your bulge or sag if no alternative treatment is maintained.
4. Buy a product at an amazing low price while stocks last
If you don’t need the product, be firm but polite about your stand. Don’t be pressured to purchase it after a trial treatment. If you think you don’t need the item or know where to get a better deal elsewhere, turn down the offer politely but firmly. Think of an excuse to get out of the situation if you feel harassed.
5. For a limited time only
This is a favourite sales gimmick used by every sales person or retailer. You will be told that the product is sold at such an affordable price just for that day. Don’t be taken in and make an impulse purchase just because the price is supposedly low. Chances are that the same phrase will be quoted to someone else who comes in the very next day and the day after until the stock depletes.

Beauty consultants can be persistent and annoying as they find all ways and means to strike a deal. This is understandable as part of their salary comes from commissions made per sale. Don’t get lured by those enticing advertisements as you now know that the sale does not end there. The reality is that you will be coerced into purchasing one product or treatment after another once you commit yourself to the initial bargain. Be aware of your budget and prioritise your needs before you commit into buying. If you are aware of having to spend beyond your limits, walk straight towards the door politely and tell your consultant that you will have to seriously consider signing up before parting with your hard earned cash!