My First Chinese Beauty Treatment

So after 5 months here in Shanghai, my skin has withstood continuous exposure to a dry indoor heat, dense outdoor air pollution and cigarette smoke,  showers that are always a little too hot, and about 30 some hours of flight time. I thought my poor skin was due for some pampering.

I have noticed that the majority of Asian women have impeccably nice skin. Even-toned, dewy, white. What is their secret?! I decided to ask my landlord, a Shanghai-native and one with beautiful skin even at 40+. "I have been going to RUBIS for years! Here is their number," she said. "Many locations."

So I made an appointment at RUBIS for their most basic service and wow can I say I had the best spent 300RMB(about $46US) facial/eye-brow sculpting/full body massage/ micro-dermabrasian ever.  When I went for my appointment I was greeted by the receptionist and led to a waiting area where a skin consultant would offer recommendations see if you wanted to do any add-ons. I didn't.

Then, you're led to the locker room where you can store your things and change. Your beautician is waiting at the door for you when you leave. She is essentially your guide until your treatment is over. I had to go to the restroom before beginning and she led me through the maze of back hallways that are most Chinese malls. She---her name is Bo Bo, was waiting for me at the bathroom exit to lead me back the way I came less I get lost!

The facial began first with a back and leg massage which was most welcome after my deadline at work. Then you flip over and she puts a heat pack on your stomach to keep you nice and toasty while she cleans your face.  Afterwards you steams it and does a little micro-dermabrasion on problem areas.  Next, she does your eyebrows which I thought was a really nice touch because I've never heard of a place offering it as complimentary even though it's always something you need. Then she puts an exfoliating tonic (maybe gycolic acid?) on your skin and a mask. Bo Bo also gave a neck and shoulder massage while we waited for it to dry. Finally, she takes off the mask and gives me a moisturizer.

Bo Bo was absolutely amazing and multi-talented, but when I asked her for some recommendations on what was right for my skin--she hesitated and said it was best I ask the skin consultant. It was not her job to recommend. Only to execute. What kind of feudal thinking is that?! I thought. But then I remembered where I was.  China is divided in to this weird hierarchical society which really "puts people in their place" and discourages pro-activeness. Here was a prime example. Nevertheless, I thanked her and went to see the "skin consultant" after I was changed.

I'll be back at RUBIS and if ever you come to Shanghai, ladies you should too! It's totally worth it.

*The only down-side is that their staff does not speak much English nor is their website offered in English. However, their service pamphlet at the location is bilingual and translated very well.