Pros 
Cons A Spectrum of Satisfaction: Decoding Customer Experiences at Century Salon
Century Salon, located at 10/268 Springvale Rd, Springvale, VIC 3171, presents a complex picture based on recent customer feedback. While the salon boasts convenient accessibility features – including wheelchair-accessible car parking and entrance – and accepts a variety of payment methods (credit, debit, and NFC mobile options), the consistency of service quality appears to be the major sticking point. Operating seven days a week (9am-6pm daily), Century Salon attracts customers seeking affordable beauty treatments, yet many reviews highlight a significant disparity in experience.
Several clients praise the value for money, particularly for SNS manicures combined with removal, costing as little as $22. Others commend the staff’s friendliness and the overall outcomes of services like pedicures, shellac applications, keratin straightening and hair colour regrowth. One customer raves about a “10/10” experience, clearly showcasing a highly positive engagement. However, these positive experiences are often shadowed by recurring concerns.
- Price Transparency: Some customers note the importance of bringing cash and being aware of potential extra charges for services like ombre or French nail designs.
- Expectations Management: Those seeking a luxurious, pampering experience with extensive conversation may be disappointed; the salon prioritises efficiency.
- Popularity & Wait Times: The salon’s popularity can lead to waiting times, which aligns with a high-throughput business model.
Nail Negatives: Recurring Complaints About Manicures
A dominant theme within the negative reviews revolves around the quality of nail services at Century Salon. Multiple customers have reported nails breaking within days of application – in one instance, within 12 hours. The application process itself is a source of frustration for many.
- Careless Application: Stories of distracted nail technicians, engrossed in conversations with colleagues, are frequent. This perceived carelessness is linked to discomfort during the procedure and a rushed final product.
- Inconsistent Repairs: When seeking repairs for broken nails, some customers report being charged additional fees for substandard fixes that don't match the existing nails. A reported $10 charge for a rushed and imperfect repair fuels complaints about professionalism.
- Rough Technique: Cuticle care is a consistent concern, with some describing the technicians as “rough” and feeling “rushed.”
- Uneven Application & Heat Issues: Instances of SNS removal resulting in burnt nails due to excessively hot filing machines, coupled with improper use of foils and alcohol, have been reported. In some cases, technicians were allegedly distracted during these processes (using phones and consuming refreshments).
| Issue | Frequency | Reported Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Nails Breaking | High | Financial Loss, Discomfort |
| Rushed Service | High | Poor Quality, Discomfort |
| Rough Cuticle Care | Moderate | Damage, Discomfort |
| Improper SNS Removal | Moderate | Nail Damage, Pain |
Beyond Nails: Concerns with Waxing and Customer Service
The negative experiences extend beyond nail services, encompassing waxing and broader customer service issues. A particularly alarming report details a waxing incident where a significant amount of hot wax was spilled on a customer’s hair, followed by a complete lack of apology or acknowledgement of fault from the technician. This incident underscores a perceived lack of professionalism and customer care within the salon. This level of service is understandably unacceptable.
Furthermore, several reviews highlight unprofessional conduct from staff members – including yelling in Vietnamese and displaying rude behaviour towards customers. A particularly distressing account recounts an incident where a customer was forced to ask staff to be quiet due to disruptive yelling, creating a tense and uncomfortable atmosphere for both herself and her young daughter.
- Rude Interactions: Frequent mentions of staff being "rude" and "rushed" suggest a systemic issue with customer interaction.
- Language Barriers & Discomfort: Public yelling and use of a different language adds to the discomfort felt by some clients.
- Lost Property: One client reported their phone going missing within the salon and subsequently found it hidden under a workbench.
Disturbing Allegations & Sister Salon Disconnect
The most severe critiques leveled against Century Salon involve allegations of deeply unprofessional and distressing behaviour, potentially warranting further investigation. One customer directly advises others to "BEWARE" of Century Salon, citing the owner’s allegedly condescending and aggressive behaviour towards a client experiencing issues with her hair treatment. The incident, reportedly witnessed by other customers, involved loud yelling and a disrespectful tone.
Furthermore, there’s a frustrating disconnect highlighted by a customer who regularly visits the sister branch in Clarinda. They praise the service at Clarinda, expressing disappointment that Century Salon’s reputation may tarnish the name of the broader business. This underscores the significant differences in quality and customer experience between the two locations. The issues at Century Salon are sufficiently serious (lost property, poor customer service, aggressive behaviour) to call into question its ability to deliver a standard level of care.