ComplaintsforStraight Ahead Beauty Express

Hair Curlers

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Initial Complaint
08/27/2023
Complaint Type:
Sales and Advertising Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Bought on Saturday, August 26. Same complaints as all of the other ones in here. Predatory sales tactics. Piece of c*** hair straightener that pulls hair out and gets way too hot. **** said it was worth $370 on the box, we ended up paying $150 I think? Tried looking up the bar code on ****** Lens and Bing and neither could pull up anything about it. Going tomorrow to try and get refunded but it doesn't look like I'll be having much luck, if the previous complaints are accurate.
Business response
09/27/2023
We are very sorry to hear that this is your experience with our product.
Letting you know:
At the kiosk we work with all products at maximum temperature and use a comb with every pass of the product on customers hair. Of course, if not used that way at home, results may differ.
We assure you that the tool you purchased is the same as the one we demonstrated at our location. To verify this, you have the option to bring it back to the store for a side-by-side comparison.
In addition, please look at the back of the products box, where you can clearly see under the last icon to the right that the straightener uses Negative ion,Nano Silver & Far Infrared Technology. Our straighteners are proven to be safer for your hair, and even a quick and easy look online searching Infrared Technology would give you enough information to see for yourself the differences between directed heat, as used in other companies tools, and the infrared used in ours.
You were informed of a no return policy, and signed the receipts that mention the policy on both ends of the receipts. Our sales representatives have a similar sales pitch, and always inform the buyer of the price and of the return policy. At the kiosk there are at least 2 clear signs of the return policy, and it is also said during the sale.
If you need any additional help with how to use your tool, you are more than welcome to return to the cart with the items or call the business number on **********.
Initial Complaint
08/21/2023
Complaint Type:
Service or Repair Issues
Status:
Resolved
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Bought the straightener from a kiosk in the mall, worked great at the mall clearly a bait and switch is ripping my hair out.
Customer response
09/01/2023
I have not heard from the business in response to my complaint.
Business response
09/22/2023
We are very sorry to hear that this is your experience with our product.
Letting you know:
At the kiosk we work with all products at maximum temperature and use a comb with every pass of the product on customers hair. Of course, if not used that way at home, results may differ.
We assure you that the tool you purchased is the same as the one we demonstrated at our location. To verify this, you have the option to bring it back to the store for a side-by-side comparison.
In addition, please look at the back of the products box, where you can clearly see under the last icon to the right that the straightener uses Negative ion, Nano Silver & Far Infrared Technology. Our straighteners are proven to be safer for your hair, and even a quick and easy look online searching Infrared Technology would give you enough information to see for yourself the differences between directed heat, as used in other companies tools, and the infrared used in ours.

You were informed of a no return policy, and signed the receipts that mention the policy on both ends of the receipts. Our sales representatives have a similar sales pitch, and always inform the buyer of the price and of the return policy.
In addition, at the kiosk there are at least 2 clear signs of the return policy,and it is also said during the sale.
If you need any additional help with how to use your tool, you are more than welcome to return to the cart with the items or call the business number on **********.
Customer response
09/25/2023
[A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response. If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]

Better Business Bureau:

I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does satisfy my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint #********. I understand that by choosing to accept the business response that my complaint will be closed as resolved.

Regards,

*************************
Initial Complaint
08/17/2023
Complaint Type:
Service or Repair Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
I purchased my products on Friday 8/11/23 in the ***************, ********** **.In total I paid $733.13.The two sales reps assured me that the straightener I purchased would leave my hair shiny, soft and as amazing as it was the day they demonstrated on my hair.Since coming home and using all the products - it was all false.The shampoo i was given didn't even have any lather, the $200 Keratin mask is awful.I am seeking to get back $733 for products that don't work the way they were presented.After my card was run was I only told no refunds.Invoice #***** - I still have all my receipts.
Business response
09/19/2023
The hair straightener that was demonstrated at the time of purchase is the exact same product sold, the only difference is how you are using it. Sadly, we do not offer refunds on personal hair products that were demonstrated before being purchased at the store location.
You were informed of a no return policy, and signed the receipts that mention the policy on both ends of the receipts. Our sales representatives have a similar sales pitch, and always inform the buyer of the price and of the return policy.
In addition, at the kiosk there are at least 2 clear signs of the return policy, and it is also said during the sale.
Every hair is different- and there are many factors to cause the hair to act in different ways. (i.e blow dryer usage, different hair products used on the hair before or after use, etc)
Even though you have opened and used the products, we would make an exchange for you to a different product in our store or website If you chose to return to the location.

If the customer needs any additional help with how to use her tool, she is more than welcome to return to the cart with the items purchased for us to compare them side by side to the ones used by us at the location or call the business number at **********.
Customer response
09/25/2023
Better Business Bureau:I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does not satisfy or resolve my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint # ********. Please add your rejection comments below; if you do not provide any details, your complaint will be closed as Answered.
Regarding Complaint #******** and the message from the business.
The products that were given to me at the time of purchase absolutely DO NOT perform the same way as the ones demonstrated.
I have done everything EXACTLY as was shown and am still not getting the same results as when they were performed on me.
I was informed about the no return policy, however, these products are not living up to their potential.
While I understand all hair types are different, you can't display a product then sell things at a lower quality. As mentioned in my original post, the shampoo doesn't even lather.
What am I to do with $700+ products that don't perform?

Thank you - *************************
Business response
09/27/2023
We work at *************** 6 days a week, from 10 AM 8 PM.
We will be very happy to Compare them side by side to the ones used by us at the time of purchase.
If you feel more comfortable taking the displayed tool, that could also be an option.
Customer response
09/27/2023
Better Business Bureau:I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does not satisfy or resolve my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint # ********. Please add your rejection comments below; if you do not provide any details, your complaint will be closed as Answered.
[You must provide details of why you are not satisfied with this resolution. If you do not enter a reason for your rejection, your complaint will be closed as Answered.]

Businesses and Customers should be civil, courteous and polite in their responses to complaints. It is important to remain professional and productive when participating in the BBB complaint process.

FAQ

Regards,
B
Initial Complaint
08/16/2023
Complaint Type:
Service or Repair Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Was approached by a women in the mall selling hair products from her cart. She was very pushy and asked to try the hair straightener on my hair. I agreed. She told me the product used infrared instead of heat. She tried selling me the straightener for $500. I told her no. She took the price down to $300. I told her no. Eventually she took it down to $130 and I agreed. She never mentioned that there were no refunds.. I only saw that after I paid and got the receipt. ALSO the product she sold me is not the product she tried on my hair. The straightener she sold me DOES use heat and burnt my hair. I want a refund, but the lady refused! I cant believe the university mall would allow someone like this is sell in their establishment!
Business response
10/04/2023
We are very sorry to hear that this is your experience with our product.
Letting you know:
At the kiosk we work with all products at maximum temperature and use a comb with every pass of the product on customers hair. Of course, if not used that way at home, results may differ.
We assure you that the tool you purchased is the same as the one we demonstrated at our location. To verify this, you have the option to bring it back to the store for a side-by-side comparison.
In addition, please look at the back of the products box, where you can clearly see under the last icon to the right that the straightener uses Negative ion,Nano Silver & Far Infrared Technology. Our straighteners are proven to be safer for your hair, and even a quick and easy look online searching Infrared Technology would give you enough information to see for yourself the differences between directed heat, as used in other companies tools, and the infrared used in ours.
You were informed of a no return policy, and signed the receipts that mention the policy on both ends of the receipts. Our sales representatives have a similar sales pitch, and always inform the buyer of the price and of the return policy. At the kiosk there are at least 2 clear signs of the return policy, and it is also said during the sale.
If you need any additional help with how to use your tool, you are more than welcome to return to the cart with the items or call the business number on ********** for extra support.
Initial Complaint
08/08/2023
Complaint Type:
Product Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Purchased 8/7/2023 after being harassed and chased down by a pushy salesperson. She claimed it was no heat could dry curl and straighten all in one and yeah the one she used worked in one strip but the one I got tricked into buying does none of those things. It pulls the hair. Its cheaply made ceramic plates nothing special. Even on highest setting it takes several passes through the hair. The lied and falsely promoted this product. They act like it is a luxury product and its trash. Even the products they throw in for "free" are full of chemicals and total junk! I ended up paying 355 for 2 cheap irons and some crappy hair oil and there is no refund or anything. These belong at Marshalls for ***** the worst part is the sales girl making my bi racial daughter feel bad about her curly hair and gave her false hope in a product that is not good and damaging. I will not let this rest.
Business response
09/22/2023

We are very sorry to hear that this is your experience with our product.
Your daughter can enjoy the qualities of the product demonstrated at the kiosk at home if used correctly by the user.
Letting you know:
At the kiosk we work with all products at maximum temperature and use a comb with every pass of the product on customers hair. Of course, if not used that way at home, results may differ.
We assure you that the tool you purchased is the same as the one we demonstrated at our location. To verify this, you have the option to bring it back to the store for a side-by-side comparison.
In addition, please look at the back of the products box, where you can clearly see under the last icon to the right that the straightener uses Negative ion, Nano Silver & Far Infrared Technology. Our straighteners are proven to be safer for your hair, and even a quick and easy look online searching Infrared Technology would give you enough information to see for yourself the differences between directed heat, as used in other companiestools, and the infrared used in ours.
If the customer needs any additional help with how to use her tool, she is more than welcome to return to the cart with the items purchased for us to compare them side by side to the ones used by us at the location or call the business number at **********.
Initial Complaint
08/07/2023
Complaint Type:
Service or Repair Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
I was asked to come over and check out the Straight Ahead flat iron, which the one they used on my hair did what she said it did. However after telling her I wasnt paying $320 for the product, she offered a very good discount that I couldnt share with anyone, $120, plus all of the other accessories were discounted, I spent $160. I fell for the very good price, however, the straightener is not what she led me to believe. It is damaging my hair, which is the exact opposite of what she said. She also told me I could use it on wet hair, I have been afraid to try that since it is damaging my hair dry. Naturally, there are no refunds, which they fail to mention. This product is a scam, and the salespeople should be ashamed.
Customer response
08/18/2023
I have not heard from the business in response to my complaint.
Business response
09/22/2023
We are very sorry to hear that this is your experience with our product.
Letting you know:
At the kiosk we work with all products at maximum temperature and use a comb with every pass of the product on customers hair. Of course, if not used that way at home, results may differ.
We assure you that the tool you purchased is the same as the one we demonstrated at our location. To verify this, you have the option to bring it back to the store for a side-by-side comparison.
In addition, please look at the back of the products box, where you can clearly see under the last icon to the right that the straightener uses Negative ion, Nano Silver & Far Infrared Technology. Our straighteners are proven to be safer for your hair, and even a quick and easy look online searching Infrared Technology would give you enough information to see for yourself the differences between directed heat, as used in other companiestools, and the infrared used in ours.
Sadly, we do not offer refunds on personal hair products that were demonstrated at the location for clients, so they know what they receive before purchasing the item. You were informed of a no return policy, and signed the receipts that mention the policy on both ends of the receipts.
Our sales representatives have a similar sales pitch, and always inform the buyer of the price and of the return policy.
In addition, at the kiosk there are at least 2 clear signs of the return policy, and it is also said during the sale.

If the customer needs any additional help with how to use her tool, she is more than welcome to return to the cart with the items purchased for us to compare them side by side to the ones used by us at the location or call the business number at **********.
Customer response
09/25/2023
Better Business Bureau:I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does not satisfy or resolve my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint # ********. Please add your rejection comments below; if you do not provide any details, your complaint will be closed as Answered.
[You must provide details of why you are not satisfied with this resolution. If you do not enter a reason for your rejection, your complaint will be closed as Answered.]

Businesses and Customers should be civil, courteous and polite in their responses to complaints. It is important to remain professional and productive when participating in the BBB complaint process.

FAQ

Regards,
*******

This is not true at all, I was never informed there were no returns and I have used the product the exact same way it was demonstrated and the outcome is not the same. My hair was so dry versus the way it felt during the demonstration. I was also told you could use this on wet hair, but I am afraid to even try that considering how dry and frizzy my hair became after using it on dry hair. I have used many well known straightening products and have never had the outcome on my hair like this one. The sign was hidden from view because the sales representative took my card to run the transaction while I was in the chair. The company should be ashamed to be scamming people of their hard earned money.
Business response
09/26/2023

We are sorry to hear that this is what you feel.
There are 2 clear signs at the kiosks, as well as on the receipt (top and bottom).

As we already said, you are very welcome to return to the location and see for yourself the results our demo one gives on your hair compared to the one you purchased. We are sure that when you see for yourself the results are the same you as well will be one of thousands of satisfied clients.
Remember, you are guaranteed for life. and we will gladly switch the product if you wish to receive a new one.
Customer response
09/27/2023
Better Business Bureau:I have reviewed the response submitted by the business and have determined that the response does not satisfy or resolve my issues and/or concerns in reference to complaint # ********. Please add your rejection comments below; if you do not provide any details, your complaint will be closed as Answered.
There are NOT 2 clear signs! The receipt is AFTER purchase and you dont know the results of the product you receive UNTIL you go home and try the product. There were numerous lies presented in the presentation about the product. Shame on you for scamming people out of their money! There are many many complaints about your product!!

Businesses and Customers should be civil, courteous and polite in their responses to complaints. It is important to remain professional and productive when participating in the BBB complaint process.

FAQ

Regards,
*******
Initial Complaint
08/06/2023
Complaint Type:
Service or Repair Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
This is clearly and bait and switch scam . This company should be out of business ! I was asked by a sales person at the ** county fair in a booth to try out a curling iron. She tried the product on my hair and insisted it can be used on wet hair and dont use heat . It used infrared technology. I likes the result and ending up paying total $277 for it . When I get home , this s*** is totally not the same as what was claimed . It heated so hot it burned my hair and pulled off so much of my hair ! And turned out I cant use on wet hair , itll totally damage my hair just for one use . The fan function on the iron is even defective . Also there was no sign or any notice or warning there is no refund at the booth . I want my money back . Everyone stay clear from those curling iron kiosks !
Business response
09/22/2023
Hello,

Unfortunately, we cannot help you because you have contacted the wrong company.
Beauty Express does not sell at county fairs, never have and never will.

We have specific locations in malls in the **, MAS and ** areas.
Also, we dont sell any irons with fan functions.
Initial Complaint
07/27/2023
Complaint Type:
Sales and Advertising Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
I have purchased a hair straighter and a hair glider at the ************ location after being severely pressured by the sales person with their pushy tactics. The hair tool used on my hair at the demo is not what I received in the box. I was told it uses steam and not heat and that is a lie. I was also told it doesnt smell like burning which is the first thing I smell when I turn it on. I received a cheap plastic hair straight that doesnt even work . I was charged $320 dollars and another $20 for a warranty thats included. I wasnt told about the no refund policy until my card was ran. There is no steam used in this toll and I was lied to. I paid $300 for tolls that are worth about 20$ and the product I got was not what I was purchasing. The switch and bait tactics were used to take advantage on me and my money and I demand a full refund. Shady advantage taking of people with false hope and scams
Business response
10/19/2023
We are very sorry to hear that this is your experience with our product.

Letting you know:
At the kiosk we work with all products at maximum temperature and use a comb with every pass of the product on customers hair. Of course, if not used that way at home, results may differ.
We assure you that the tool you purchased is the same as the one we demonstrated at our location. To verify this, you have the option to bring it back to the store for a side-by-side comparison.

In addition, please look at the back of the products box, where you can clearly see under the last icon to the right that the straightener uses Negative ion,Nano Silver & Far Infrared Technology that creates steam. Our straighteners are proven to be safer for your hair, and even a quick and easy look online searching Infrared Technology would give you enough information to see for yourself the differences between directed heat, as used in other companies tools, and the infrared used in ours.

You were informed of a no return policy, and signed the receipts that mention the policy on both ends of the receipts. Our sales representatives have a similar sales pitch, and always inform the buyer of the price and of the return policy. At the kiosk there are 2 clear signs of the return policy, and it is also said during the sale.

If you need any additional help with how to use your tool, you are more than welcome to return to the cart with the items or call the business number on ********** for extra support.
Initial Complaint
06/30/2023
Complaint Type:
Sales and Advertising Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
False advertising and predatory sales tactics
Business response
09/21/2023
We are very sorry to hear that this is your experience with our product.

Letting you know:
At the kiosk we work with all products at maximum temperature and use a comb with every pass of the product on customers hair. Of course, if not used that way at home, results may differ.
We assure you that the tool you purchased is the same as the one we demonstrated at our location.
To verify this, you have the option to bring it back to the store for a side-by-side comparison.

If the customer needs any additional help with how to use her tool, she is more than welcome to return to the cart or call the business number at **********.

Thank you.
Initial Complaint
06/20/2023
Complaint Type:
Product Issues
Status:
Answered
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
My mom and I were at the *************** in ****************, *******, this lady ******* was selling products at her cart in the middle of the mall. We were walking past and she asked us to come over and talk with her about her products. We kindly talk to her for a little while and she would not stop asking us to purchase her things. She asked me if she could try her product on my hair and show that it does not damage your hair, and is not made by heat, but an infrared light which is totally a lie I let her use it on my hair and all I could feel was super hot heat as she used the straightener, she kept telling me the reasons why I want her product instead of others. She asked us to pay $370 for her product and then I said that I was not open to that price so she kept lowering lowering her price and adding in other additional things. So she said she would give it to me for $99 and then we went to pay for it and she said that it was another seven dollars for tax After I said that I would purchase one she made my mom sit down to try out her hair extensions and myself. She asked us if we would pay $700 for her hair extensions and we said that we were not open to do so, she just kept asking for us to purchase, and was very pushy! She kept saying that her product would not damage that it was not made by heat and that it has a lifetime warranty. She did not tell us that there was no refunds, and then after I got the receipt, it says no refunds. She told me as long as the box was closed. I could bring it back. I called her yesterday evening and asked if I could come back and get my money back because my hair felt fried and smell like a burnt tire. I then looked up her product online and there is horrible reviews. One person stated that her friends hair fell out from using her product.I am so upset that my mom and I spent that money and turns out when I got the box. It says that its made with heat!! it says nothing about an infrared light. I want my money back
Business response
09/19/2023
The hair straightener that was demonstrated at the time of purchase is the exact same product sold, the only difference is how you are using it. Sadly, we do not offer refunds on personal hair products that were demonstrated before being purchased at the store location.
Please look again at the photo you attached to this complaint, you can clearly see under the last icon to the left that the straightener uses Negative ion, Nano Silver & Far Infrared Technology. Our straighteners are proven to be safer for your hair, and even a quick and easy look online searching Infrared Technology would give you enough information to see for yourself the differences between directed heat, as used in other companiestools, and the infrared used in our tools.
You were informed of a no return policy, and signed the receipts that mention the policy on both ends of the receipts. Our sales representatives have a similar sales pitch, and always inform the buyer of the price and of the return policy. Like any other store, price tags do not include the taxes you pay for the items at the cashier.
In addition, at the kiosk there are at least 2 clear signs of the return policy, and it is also said during the sale.
If the customer needs any additional help with how to use her tool, she is more than welcome to return to the cart with the items purchased for us to compare them side by side to the ones used by us at the location or call the business number at **********.

Thank you for being a valued customer.

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