I visited Ablution with my boyfriend's mom on the 4th of July to receive express facials and…read morepedicures. They were taking appointments only for the day rather than being open normal business hours. The receptionist, Courtney, was very friendly and courteous. I wish I could say the same for the two estheticians who provided services to us.
My service provider started complaining almost immediately. Her daughter was waiting outside for her to wrap up since we were "the only appointments they had today." My express facial lasted just 20 minutes and included an exfoliation, masque, and serum application. She did not explain any of the products she was applying nor make recommendations for my skin. What really bothered me is that she just sat there while the exfoliant cream and masque were working, respectively. For $50, I am used to receiving a shoulder, hand, or foot rub while the products are doing their magic. This was my boyfriend's mother's first facial, and I have to say I was embarrassed that this was the "treat" I was giving her. She was moderately more impressed with her service provider, who provided a 25-minute facial and included a lip scrub.
We were given express pedicures ($35) without double-checking if that's what we wanted. The view and massage chairs are quite nice in the pedicure room on the 3rd floor. However, if you have mobility issues, do not get your nails done here. The 3rd floor is only accessible via a very narrow circular staircase. The complaining during the quick and dirty pedicures (cuticle work, lotion rub, and polish change) was non-stop. First, they were complaining about working on the holiday and that they almost hadn't answered the phone to come in. Then, they complained about their work schedules and finally about cosmetology school. It turned what could've been a fun bonding experience for me and my boyfriend's mom into an exhausting (though short) experience to be overcome.
Spending $170 total (before tip) for 2 express pedicures and 2 express facials with this kind of service was really awful. I will not be returning, and I won't be buying gift certificates for my boyfriend's family, who is local.