American Laser Skincare review: unprofessional, dangerous, painful and no refund! 609

Hello,

Please be assured we absolutely want to resolve your issue. If you have contacted the new customer service team with the number I provided and have not received a returned call, please provide me your phone number and we can make sure you are contacted within 24 hours.

Our team, including my colleague Elin, is posting on this board and other sites to let our customers know that we have an expanded customer service team and very much want to help with any past problems.

Thank you for the dialogue.

-Allen

I think it would be a good idea if people posted their location when posting so people in the same area can help each other out because some of the locations are locally owned.

Allen, your words are a joke. Too late for damage control. Many of us have contacted both customer service and the company itself with no response. Also, you say the company's changed ownership but some of these ALC's are locally owned, not sure how many, who knows, the one I went to was.

A woman by the name of ELIN from ALC is also posting all over the place claiming to also care about the customers. Well, ALC has a funny way of showing it!

Additional ALC complaints on this board but this here is an example of another employee trying to salvage the company's poor rep with these words, which are just that, words. Yet people continue to be burned, mistreated, disrespected, lied to, their hard earned $ lost, etc...

Please stop taking up space. Copy and paste your monologue elswhere.

Misrepresentation started from the minute I walked in. I "won" a 300 dollar contest and decided to check it out. I'm blonde hair and pale skin. Good ol' irish. I do have some dark hairs as well. I was told specifically that I would be a good candidate because my skin is pale. I asked direct and specific questions. How long would it take before I saw results. I was told 2-4 treatments. I asked how permanent is this laser hair removal. She said very permanent. I wouldn't have to worry about hair regrowth unless I had a hormone change. I asked for an example of a hormone change and she stated something women go through such as menopause.
Other questions in that session were if the laser did not work on me. I'm very pessimistic and make sure I cover all angles, at least so I thought. She said if I went to the treatments and noticed there was no change then I would get a full refund. Of course, my next statement is because I know how it was worded. What happens if I get minor change and not the hair loss in the areas I am paying for, for it to be removed. She stated directly to me there would be a full refund. I made specific sure to ask if I didn't receive full hair loss I would receive my money back.

The treatments were of course a little painful and I made sure they wasted no time maxing the machine out as much as possible on my skin to hopefully see results. I used their "cream" the first time but my skin broke out and I told them of this. I told them I wouldn't use it again and they let it drop. They didn't tell me why my skin broke out or why I needed the cream. I never really got burned and my skin never broke out again.

The treatments never showed any improvements and my hair has grown back. I was letting it grow to prove a point to the clinic but I see that is futile as compared to other people. The last few treatments they did double overpasses and I believe the final treatment I did they went over it I believe 3 times. I was in session for the chest and back about 6+ hours.

After the next month seeing my hair grow back and coming up to my next treatment I cancelled the treatment and said enough is a enough and requested my money back. I complained directly to the office manager and found her sympathetic. She stated she would write a formal complaint and send it to me and the corporate at the same time. I never received the complain and followed up for about 2 weeks. I took the matter into my own hands and called corporate to issue a complaint and they stated directly they hadn't received a complain on my case yet and would write one up. Calling the corporate office and even issueing that complaint took about 2 solid week of calling and harassing the voicemail.

The next two weeks went by and the office manager called and stated corporate had given almost an identical complaint as hers and she specifically stated that because I had showed a 10% hair loss I was not going to be issued a refund and that I must continue my treatment before they would consider a refund.

Hopefully that spells out the story and most of the details. This is the worst company I've ever dealt with in regards to treating customers.

I have been getting laser hair removal on my face for about a year now, and it has made a huge difference. It didn't at first, but the hair growth is now a lot slower, and there's a lot less of it. Yes, some of the girls who work there really don't seem to know what they're doing, but there are some who do it well. I find that it works best when they go over the area twice...

And yes, I have pale skin and dark hair, so in theory I'm the "ideal candidate."

I would like to thank eveyone for your advise and stories. I received the call about a free $300.00 certificate and if I schedule the consultation I would receive an additional $100.00. I made the appointment and started researching this company. I googled their reviews and stumbled on this site.

Again, MANY THANKS and GOOD LUCK!

My treatments are not for laser hair removal but for amerismooth treatments. Bought 20 treatments for 2210.00, received 15 treatment but has seen no results. On the 10 treatment I should have had pictures taken to view results, no such pictures were taken. My plans are to use the extra 5 treatment for maintenance. But have not received no results just softer cellulite. I have no desier to continue treatment I just want my money back or at least for remaining treatments. I called on 3/25/08 talk to lisa manager of am laser in stockton ca. She state that there is no refund on treatment and I had already received a major discount, there is nothing she can do but talk to her dist manager and there she is almost certain there is nothing they can do for me. Also stated that I should have used cream excersized and diet. Well I do excersized 3 times a week and try to watch what i eat, but no one told me I had to use the cream that cost 25.00 a bottle. Please help me. Advise me and yes I am willing to join your group on the law suite agaist american laser center.
Grace Lopez in California

I've been told their is someone organizing a class action law suit. Contact all of us. ALC owes all of us much more than just the money we've paid. This has been exhausting, frustrating, stressful and expensive. Lets get going!

Wasted my money. Unprofessional. Will not recommend. No results. Not sure the girls knew what they were doing. Wasted my time. Big promises to get your money, and no results to show for it.

Like a lot of people who got into this mess in the first place I also got a call saying that I won a $300 gift certificate at this raffle I entered and if I go in for a free consultation in the next two days I will get another $100 off. I'm so glad I googled their reviews online and stumbled upon this website otherwise I would probably make the same mistake as most of you. I just want to thank you all for sharing your stories and I wish you luck in the lawsuit!

To Unsatisfied Customer - Chicago and other recent posters,

I wanted to follow up in regards to my previous post.

As discussed, American Laser Centers has recently changed ownership and has expanded its customer service department. Our customer service team would really like to hear your feedback.

Please contact them at [protected].

We apologize for any negative experiences you have had at American Laser Centers.

Thank you,

Allen
customerservice@alcpartner.com
www.americanlaser.com

ALC is awful. I have been receiving laser hair removal treatments on my full face, breasts, navel, extended brazilian and full legs to the tune of $7k and have NOTHING to show for (as far as removal/reduction goes) but I do have BURNS from my ankles to my hips. They wanted to blame this on the color of my skin. However, they knew I am naturally tan. This place is an awful establishment and needs to be stopped. Please help or tell me how I can help!

Feel free to contact me at lasercomplaints@hotmail.com. I set that up just for this situation.

Heather- Indy

Dear Clinic manager (Post from 3/14)

I do not know what company you had been working for, but it sure does not sound like the one all of us on this blog (and this is only one blog! check BBB and others!) fell victim too.

I realize how the company is run and its various protocols are not up to you, however I would be ashamed to be affiliated with it. The company has a horrible reputation, at least in Chicago.

In the fall I had bought a package of 10 microderm sessions. That's over $1,000 that I had spent!

I wish I would have known better! American Laser Centers appears to be such an upscale company with very prestegious locations, marketing campaigns and variety of services. Too bad perception is NOT reality. Honestly, the customer service at Marshalls (just a random example) is a thousand times better than at any of their facilities and ESPECIALLY at their corporate.

I have had six appointments with them so far. The first two were ok. The technician was very young and asked me the same questions the second time around. Which means they don't keep charts on their clients. Its a freaking medical spa for crying out loud! And they don't keep charts on their clients!

Anyways, the second two appointments were a complete waste of my time as the microderm machine was broken. They told me this when I got there, wasting half of my day that I had taken off of work! The fifth appointment was marvelous, I must say...but just when I thought my "bad luck" (what I thought at the time was bad luck as opposed to their lack of giving a snoot about their clients) the sixth appointment got cancelled because it was at 9am and after 15 minutes of waiting for the key holder to let who overslept I stormed out after I found out my technician who I had my last "marvelous" appointment with had been tranferred to a different location. Once again, nobody called.

So three actual sessions later, no results, lots of wasted time and frustration and on top of it all three months of lost treatment time. Enough is enough!

I am in the beauty industry, and on a daily basis I get asked for product and treatment recommendations. I will openly admit that I have completely trashed their reputation to all my friends, co-workers, all clients and even random strangers. When someone asks my opinion regarding where to get microderm or products for this or that desired result, I beging by telling them where NOT to go (which is obviously American Laser Centers) and what products NOT to buy- followed by a recommendation of a place I know they will be satisfied with as well as a product I feel confident in. After all, they consider me an expert so I tell them my expert opinion.

What the heck, freedom of speach, right? One of the very fundamentals of beliefs this country was founded on, right? So I speak! And now blog. This is only the beginning.

Unless ALC management does not get their head out of their ### very soon, from blogs such as this one - I see this company filing bankruptcy in the next few years. Especially in this current economy where staying beautiful and young is a luxury, not a necessity.

After all, the word of mouth is the most powerful way of marketing, correct? It will be too late when this realization of this slaps them over the face!

As an employee of ALC I would be embarassed to work for such a crappy company!

The lack in the business sense of the management of the ALC facilities (especially at corporate!) them ignoring consumer complaints and their "no refund" b.s .of a policy GUARANTEES that I will not be spending a single dollar there again...and neither will my friends and anybody else I can provide with the knowledge of my HORRIBLE experience, so that I may prevent others from getting as frustrated as I have.

Not only do they not deliver the results they promise, their products are crap and bad quality (with lots of cancer causing parabens, might I add!), I find all members I have encountered at (what is now the 3rd facility) very unknowledgable and incompetent, but their services are waaaaayyyy overpriced!

They just want your money and don't give a *&^% about booking your appointment, your treatment progress, nor anything else but the comission on the sale!

Ladies, do me a favor and DO NOT let them talk you into spending money there. Just look above. These testimonials speak for themselves. If you want a service done, go to a privately owned company or a small mom and pop store where they actually appreciate their clients.

And one more thing, make sure that your technician is certified. You can ask to see their certification, especially with chemical peels, laser treatments and even micro! Be careful!

How great is it that consumers do not have to worry about defamation?!

This is helpful, Allen. Thank you.

How do I get involved in the CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT? My wife has been getting treatments for over 2 years and has had little to no results. I was planning to try and ask for a REFUND but it appears to be unsuccesful. Let me know. Thanks!

Tilleyh

For all of you that have had a problem with ALC, I suggest calling the headquarters. They completely believe in customer satisfaction. Have over 240 centers nationwide. They will do their best in making you feel comfortable, even a refund if desired. Customers should feel completely safe in choosing American Laser Centers. How do I know all of this? Ive worked for them for over a year now and Ive seen this company stand by their word in customer satisfaction. Seeing is believing!

I also didn't get my money back... for over a year. I had to hire somebody to get it back! Finally they refunded it 15 months later. After being hounded daily, having called several different locations, and general harassment. I think it was luck.

How do I join the class action law suit? I am in! What a scam and what an unethical business. I can't believe ALC have not been shut down. I called ALC about the laser hair removal because I had this done with very good success about 5 years ago at my dermatologist. I had a spot on my chin that I thought could use a few treatments. Before my appointment I was taken into a room and was sold on the FotoFacial treatments - of course they charged my credit card before I received any treatments. The next morning I call ALC and told them I had changed my mind and did not want these other services. I was immediately told they had a non-refund policy and that I had signed a contract. I explained to her I was not asking for a refund for the one treatment I received and that I wanted to cancel. I was told NO and I then called my credit card company and filed a dispute. That was November and it is now March and ALC is fighting this refund. I was charged $4900.00 WOW! What a racket. Charge people and provide NO services. What kind of deal is this. I am filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and I am going to contact the Attorney General's office again. Will hire my own attorney if I have to because this is just WRONG!

I actually worked at ALC and your all correct. Oh my gosh they treat their employees so terribly...its all about bringing in money or your OUT! Instead of spending time educating my manager to bring in more sales the Regional named Jen Iser comes in one day and introduces the manager to a young girl as "your replacement" and says by the way...your fired. Ya, thats right they actually did that and then they turn around and tell the employees to have a positive attitude. Also they hire you and tell you that you will earn a certain dollar amount and then you get your paycheck only to see they dont pay you the amount promised you. UNBELIEVABLE. I just cant believe what a TERRIBLE company they run. They get you in by some stupid raffle, which EVERYONE gets called on only to bump up the prices to give you that GREAT DEAL. STAY FAR AWAY...FAR FAR AWAY.

Employees of American Laser Centers who are not paid for overtime as well as clients who have been burned or ripped off, contact the link at the end of this email. They have filed a CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT! Help is on the way for us all. Here is the address: alcclassaction.blogspot.com

Is there any movement toward a class action suit against this company. If so, what do I have to do to be part of it. This company is the worst!

To all posters,

I represent American Laser Centers and we apologize for the delayed response to your request for assistance. We also appreciate your feedback.

American Laser Centers has recently changed ownership. If you have issue with your experience, we would like to ask you to please contact our newly expanded customer service department. If you’d like us to contact you instead, please provide your contact information to my email below and we will contact you at a time and day of your convenience.

We are constantly looking at ways to improve our services and your input is important to us.

If you have any additional problems or questions in the future, please contact our customer service team at [protected].

American Laser Centers’ customer service center is happy to personally help you with your needs and will provide a swift response to your concern.

Thank you,

Allen
customerservice@alcpartner.com
www.americanlaser.com

Hello Gerald,

I represent American Laser Centers and we apologize for the delayed response to your post. American Laser Centers recognizes there has been confusion regarding our sweepstakes and, based on feedback like yours, we want to be clear about what you won. You were chosen to be one of our third place prize winners. The prize you have received is a $300 coupon that you may use towards any of our laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation or cellulite reduction packages.

We hope this response is satisfactory and appreciate you voicing your concern.

If you have any additional problems or questions in the future, please contact our customer service team at [protected].

We are constantly looking at ways to improve our services and your feedback is important to us.

Thank you,

Allen
customerservice@alcpartner.com
www.americanlaser.com

Thanks for your post about your experience at American Laser Centers.

Oh and the only reason why I started going there in the first place was because of the "coupon" for $300 off and the extra $100 that a Customer Service agent called and told me about.
I should have researched this company before signing up with them two years ago but I had such good results with the Laser company from Chicago that I figured all would be as reliable and effective.
My mistake :(

This really is not such a good place to go for laser treatments.
I have been going to the clinic in Plano, TX for two years now with no real results. I have really light skin and really dark hair (I am pakistani) which is supposed to work well with these kind of treatments.
The treatments have NOT worked at all even in the areas where the hair is darkest. Before coming here I used to go this other Laser Center in Chicago (I moved from there recently) and their treatments WORKED! I only went for five treatments and more than half the hair was gone from my face!
I have been going here for TWO years and have not seen a noticeable difference.
I have another appointment today and am going to discuss how we are going to proceed if the hair does not go away.

I went to my gynecologist for laser treatments on my bikini line - 6 sessions @ 6 weeks apart. After the FIRST treatment all the hair was gone within 2 weeks and I haven't shaved since (by the way I was a hairy beast who suffered from major ingrown hair bumps). Some new hair grew in and was also ALL successfully removed at the follow-ups (I have 2 more to go).

I think something's wrong with their technique or lasers if it's not working. I have a friend going to ALC right now. She started her treatment at the same time as me. She's had 4 sessions and no real results. She is jealous that mine is working, but she said that ALC is telling her it often takes a few sessions to see results. I say, baloney.

P.S. I'm researching lasers for brown spot removal and came across this site. I hate to see people getting screwed. Is ALC is using intense pulsed light technology? My doctor is using a regular laser. Maybe that's the problem. I''ve read that IPL technology doesn't work very well for removal. Also, FYI, my bikini line cost $540 for the six sessions.

You will find the in the definition of 'unethical' the name American Lasers. These people will tell you anything you want to hear to get your money. They sold me a Laser hair Removal Package and assured me it would work on my light blonde hair.

I now work for Laser Creations in Simi Valley, CA. There I learned that the technology has yet to be developed that will remove blonde hair. Laser Creations would NEVER sell a service that simply will not produce results. You will find Laser Creations in the definition of 'ethical'.

Anyhow, I was ripped off and lied to repeatedly by AMERICAN LASER. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE THEM YOUR BUSINESS!

Amy
laser_creations@hotmail.com

Come on people, I am a employee for ALC, I do understand your complaints but I have been doing this for 4 years and I tell you what, we have done MANY MANY refunds! Anywhere from non-responders, to people with doctors notes and so on.. Yes the laser can burn you, duh, its a LASER! Laser, heat, hmmm think about it..

And yes if you want your money back from care credit you must pay the %10. But you should have read this before signing up. Read what you sign, hasnt your mother ever told you that?

Also we are all trained and certified, some of us are nurses and some are estheticians. The reason for the LASER training itself is so short is because we already know the skin, you must be a licensed Esthetician to work for the company, the training for the lasers is more of a review and the right way to handle them. And employees not knowing what they are doing, after training you must do JOB SHADOWING with another tech. I did it, they all do it.

We are not franchised, we are a corporation. We dont rent from Doctors, we just join with them sometimes and sometimes they just work in our company. Our Corporate office is NOT in Detroit, get facts strait. Its in Carmel, IN...

As for we are a scam, no, of course we want to make money, were a corporation. You go buy furniture, a car, anything with a good value on it and the employees and what not are going to try to get you to buy! Thats what profitiable companies do.

Some of you may be have a issue getting a refund, and as a employee I am telling you if you really think you deserve it, and you have a issue, stick with it, keep calling the clinic manager, not the CEO. The clinic manager can help you. We arent all about scamming you, at least the clinic I work for isnt. If you dont meet our standered "refunds policy" you cant get one, the refund policy thing can suck, but ya know they have them at wal-mart and I bet many of you have had to take a gift certificate insteed of cash once, do ya still shop there?

Here is one of the reasons we do give refunds,

If you are a non responder, have been treated you 6-12 treatments, have been double passed and have seen less than %20 results.

If you become pregnant or have other illness that requires you to stop the laser on a DOCTORS ORDER.

Not just because you got burned. Not just because you bruised. Not just because you read this blog and think you got scammed.

If you want to know more, about the refund policy, ask your local clinic for the copy.. And for big future purchases, get this before hand.

I care about my employees and will continue to treat them and serve them with the best quality care possible.

Good luck to you all if you do qualify for the refund. And remember, it can take time. We deal with alot of questions and concerns and would like to get back to all of you in a timley manner but cant do it all in one day.

Sorry to you who have been burned, things happen, like I said before it is a LASER.. You should go back and ask for a free Microdermabrasion to see if maybe it can help. Sometimes they are more than happy to do that for you. And also that cant burn you because its not a laser, (microderms)..

Good Luck to you all and to future clients!

THANK YOU! Your voices have been heard! Your frustration and pain will not be in vein!...

I recently got engaged and went to my first bridal expo looking for good ideas and such. I obviously entered as MANY drawings as possible in hopes to win a prize! I'm a discount fanatic so when my finance told me I had missed a call from American Laser Center, regarding the 3rd place $300 prize I won, I was trilled! I have been battling acne for a LONG time and would want nothing better than to look BEAUTIFUL on my wedding day without scars or uneven skin tones. So I listened to the messages to get the # and realized I not only missed 1 call...but I missed 8 of their calls within 3 days. I initially thought this was a bit pushy but due to the "3rd place $300 PRIZE" factor, I figured they needed me to respond to see if I was interested (in case they needed to pass it to someone else if i wasn't). So I got the # and called. The #800 number threw me off, but considered it policy to screen calls. She asked what state and city I would be near and I told her and she told me I had to go to a consultation to redeeme my prize. Eh, I figured it couldn't hurt to check them out. So She said I would earn another $100 if I went within the next 2 days. Loving discounts, I scheduled same day and went after work

I must say... The lady in the WHITE coat was VERY NICE. She greeted me and made me feel at home. Very sweet and personable; like old friends. She discussed all the procedures and went on to talk about how they are the LARGEST company in the LASER field and due to this, can afford the better technology and research to guarantee results! She went on to explain how most companies can only do the "IDEAL" candidate- Light skin, black hair. Of course, not them! They could get rid of Red, blond, White, Grey, you name it! She said they also have this really high tec laser that detects body heat, lowering the laser intensity automatically, in case recent sun exposure happen to eliminate the risk of burning a patient. When I asked about pain and the use of numbing cream, she said due to other company's incidences regarding mis use and cardiac problems, they removed this step to reduce the risk of complications. She insured it was near painless and that it wouldnt be needed. Then she explained how they are a VERY "CONSERVATIVE" company. They make sure all precautions and care are followed. As far as the acne, she recommended Microdermabrasion for scaring and felt I was a GREAT canidate.

All this made me feel comfortable in their procedures and was becoming VERY psyched about this. She went on to tell me they were running a special if I got 2 or more packages i would receive an aditional $750 off. This was a Valentines day special and had to be purchased before the end of Feb. We ran the #'s and with my #300 off + $100 for rushing the consultation and an additional $750 off, the 1/2 leg and Microderm for 6 treatments would be $1,690.89. Well, I was THRILLED! because although thats a CRAP ton of money, the legs alone without discount were $2,399. AWESOME! But I promised my Fiance I wouldnt make any desicions without him and I think this was the BEST move I could have made.

He was sckeptical at first. Saying that they were just SELLING me and that the $ of the procedures seemed HIGH. Of course I argued with him and said they were about average (which I did research and they were pretty close). But once I explained the discounts, he warmed up to the idea and said, if I was to get it done, now would be a good time due to the $1,100 in discounts. I showed him the CARE Credit and he said as long as it was interest free...to go for it.

So i woke up this morning and was excited about this new opportunity I would have. Hairless legs and a smooth complexion. I was getting ready to call to get the finances started, when I stopped. Something told me this wasnt right. Just as I thought this, I remeber last night...when I left, that I caught a glimps of the "room" they do the procedures in. I pray that im wrong in thinking this was a procedure room and infact its a storage closet. There was a white bed with the back raised up in a reclining position and all I can remember seeing was this chair, and DIRT! I dont know where the image of dirt could come from, but it didnt look like no "clean spa". Dont get me wrong. When I got there, the waiting room was BLISS! Smelled good, looked peaceful and clean, but I noticed they didnt have blinds. In FL? Come on! When I got there, I just figured they liked sunlight. :) But my mind keeps coming back to the room i caught a glimps of. It just looked odd. Especially compaired to the rooms I've seen microderm sessions recorded in. It just seemed wrong. So I jumped online to bbb and they arn't registered. For them to be the BIGGEST laser company, you'd think they would be registered. This really worried me so then I found this site. THANK GOD!

In a nutshell, although I have not had a PERSONAL experience here, the reviews speak for themselves. I undertsand I shouldnt let other experiences detur me because you CANT please everyone...but most times when this is the case, the reviews are 50/50. Some awesome experiences, and some not so good. Besides employees (and even some of those are bad) all reviews are bad! This is scary! To top it off, or on a side note, being someone who dearly wants to rid herself of acne scars and wants to look radient and beautiful... its disheartening to know there are companies out there who do this type of practice to innocent people who trust them. When they sign up for a service, they are trusting this company with their $ and their life, and their happiness. How could they feel good about making you all so unhappy!

Im so sorry to all of you for all your pain and frustration. I will not be going there today to sign up so know that your voices have been heard!

Ash

www.ethicspoint.com - American Laser Center Employee Hotline

Report Submission Date
2/12/2008

Reported Company/Branch Information
Name American Laser Centers, LLC
Location 445 Bay Area Blvd.
City/State/Zip Houston, TX, 77058, USA

Violation Information
Violation Type

Violation of Policy
Please identify the person(s) engaged in this behavior:
Van Stokes - Office Manager

Do you suspect or know that a supervisor or management is involved?
Yes

If yes, then who?
See above

Is management aware of this problem?
No

What is the nature of this violation of policy?
Violation of company policy, state law, and harassment.

Where did this incident or violation occur?
At the workplace

Please provide the specific or approximate time this incident occurred:

Violation of policy since 1/22/2007

2/11 - Told Ms. Stokes she was taking a lunch break, was harassed because of it.

2/12 - Asked co-worker to take a lunch break, stated Texas labor law. Manager was called, argued.
How long do you think this problem has been going on?
1 to 3 months
How did you become aware of this violation?
Other
If other, how?
Ms. Miles has had it happen to her and seen it with others.
Please identify any persons who have attempted to conceal this problem and the steps they took to conceal it:
Van Stokes, Office Manager - Ignored the issue and wouldn't follow through with her agreement to work in breaks on schedules.
Details
What is the nature of this discrimination or harassment?
Harassed when certain questions are asked

Have you confronted the person engaged in this behavior?
Yes

If yes, what did you say or do? What did they say or do?
Ms. Miles would argue that was happening was against Texas labor laws and against company policy. Manager would be forced to allow the break.

Ms. Miles, a former laser technician, states that there has been an issue of policy violation and harassment at the office from Van Stokes, office manager. Ms. Miles states that there is an unspoken rule of no breaks being allowed during the work day. All of the employees are not allowed the prescribed amount of unpaid lunch breaks or shorter paid breaks. The employees are made to eat what they can in between the flow of clients. Ms. Miles who was hired on January 22, 2008, reports that it wasn't too much of an issue to begin with as she had fewer hours as she was being trained and was allowed to take a few breaks as clients were not her sole responsibility yet. However, once Ms. Miles became a full employee and took her own clients on approximately February 4, 2008, it became quite clear how difficult and unfair the system was.

Ms. Miles states that she had learned from other co-workers that there was a long history of no breaks being allowed at the office. After having found the company handbook, she discovered that the company's policy was that hourly employees who work at least six consecutive hours must be given an unpaid thirty minute lunch break. Also, that hourly employees that work at least eight consecutive hours in a day must be given an unpaid thirty minute break and two additional fifteen minute breaks. In addition, employees will not be on-call or required to remain at the office or location during the unpaid lunch breaks.

At the office though, Ms. Miles and the other co-workers were not allowed any breaks and were not allowed to leave the work site during what little time in between clients they had. On February 11, 2008, Ms. Miles had grown fed up with the lack of a break and was actually feeling lightheaded with lack of any time to eat. Ms. Miles had approached Ms. Stokes and told her that she was going on lunch break. Ms. Stokes had objected loudly and even ended up arguing with Ms. Miles about it in front of clients. Ms. Stokes had stated, "I told you this before, we don't have lunch breaks. If there is time allowed, you can eat between clients." Ms. Stokes was speaking scornfully and loudly during the argument. Ms. Miles stated what she had learned of company policy and that it was Texas Labor Laws that enforced breaks as well. Ms. Stokes caved a little and stated, "Well, you need to go get your food and come right back." Ms. Miles argued that her time was her own to spend, to which Ms. Stokes just stated, "Fine," and stormed off.

Ms. Miles had even later suggested a method of arranging breaks for employees, as work schedules are made before each work day. Ms. Stokes had agreed to it, but not followed through. Such that on February 11, 2008, when Ms. Miles asked a co-worker if they could take a client for her while she went on break, the employee was angry that Ms. Miles was going to take a break. The employee called Ms. Stokes, "We've got a problem here, because Ms. Miles wants to take a lunch break and says that Texas Labor Laws says she can." Another argument ensued, this time over the phone. It didn't seem to register with Ms. Stokes or the other co-worker that Texas Labor Laws and company policy allowed the breaks.

Ms. Miles walked off the job, tired from having to argue so hard to get her prescribed breaks that the office management wasn't allowing the employees to take. Ms. Miles states that the work environment is very negative because of this and the office has had a very high turnover of employees of late.

Ms. Miles would like to retain her job, but wants the conditions to be improved such that company policy and labor laws are actually followed. She feels she should not have to argue to get what she is supposed to receive anyway.

I own a large laser hair removal and skin rejuvenation center in Burlington, MA. I have also been a medical device general manager for over 30 years for large and small companies. We studied the various technologies and you are correct the best altertnative for hair removal remains the Alexandrite for light skinned poeople and the YAG for darker skinned people. Although viewed as older techn9ologies these actually still remain the best alternatives for hair removal. Also they provide the least patient discomfort. Ligth based IPL or AFT technologies simply do not work as effectively.

I bought three packages for $2300 dollars on 1/30/08. I was treated shortly after and received a second degree burn on my calf 5 inches in lengh. The burn has a very unique shape that is quite disturbing. It is in the shape of the laser head. I showed the tech and she had no clue how it happened and sent me home with aquaphor cream. I called later that day very upset and talked with the assistant manager demanding to know how this burn occurred. She stated the tech held the laser against my skin the wrong way and that caused the burn. She talked as if it is just a superficial burn and it will be gone in a few days. A second degree burn is not superficial. When they sold me the package they said their techs have been through a "rigorous training program." The clinical manager explained all levels of the training and it seemed very impressive. I felt comfortable. I also asked for a more experienced tech for the first time because i was a little nervous. they gave me someone who had been there three months. I am scared to go back .I dont trust these techs. They have not had proper training. I feel if this girl burned me than any of them can. i'm not going back. I am going to take legal action to get my money back. I will join you in this cause. I wish i would have seen this site before I spent my money.

Thank you so much everyone for posting this! I just received a voicemail yesterday saying I had won the online drawing and have a $300 coupon. I called back and they said if I could come in that night or tom. I would get an extra $100 so I scheduled an appt. for the consulation for 1pm today. I would take me about 2 hours to get to the closest location. I had just come online to get directions when I stumbled upon this site, and thank god I did. Otherwise I would have drove 2 hours just to be scammed! Thanks so much everyone, and sorry to those of you who didnt get a chance to be forwarned. I hope you get your money back or win that lawsuit!

Oops typo... i didn't sign up becase I'd think it was pricey... i just figured it would be.

I am just beginning to see what a huge headache this company seems to be. If anyone is in the AUSTIN, TX area, PLEAAAASE help me. I won the $300 gift towards a package. Now, I was pretty stoked because I've wanted to do this for a long time (hey, I'm Italian, what else do i need to say?) so I went in to my free consultation thinking I'd probably sign up because I knew it'd be pricey. Well needless to say, the terms of the contract were not exactly explained in full and I felt sort of lightheaded and confused about it. It all happened so fast. I did indeed get approved for the Care Credit card. I ended up signing for a 2000$ package to do a brazlian. Alright, I thought, this is going to be a good thing. They even booked me the next day. Stupid me, I went through with the procedure. I did not do any research whatsoever, which is really UNLIKE me at all and I completely surprised myself in that aspect. So, basically, I can't get my money back. This happend a few days ago. After my treatment, I decided to google ALC. Well, You all know what I found, obviously! Okay, so I put together a huge ### packet of startling complaints from people on here and other places, wrote a letter stating I wanted to cancel and that I would pay for my treatment only. I also planned on a letter to the BBB and all our newspapers here and local TV stations.
One question i have here is: what tv stations in Austin provide a consumer report?
Okay, so I went in tonight to talk to the manager. From what I read on here, I expected a nasty interaction. What happened was weird. I told her I wanted to cancel and I wasn't going to pay. She told me a million times that I was not going to get my money back due to the contract. She ended up spending over an hour talking to me, defending ALC and saying they had a ton of happy clients. She said she would do whatever it took to make me happy, to accommodate me, and she said she'd do my legs and my underarms for free. I told her I wanted till Friday to think it over. I still don't completely trust her. I asked her: what's it to you to keep me in here when I could walk out the door and you'd still have your money? She said because she actually cares or that because she guarantees my happiness and that I will not get hurt. Now, so far, I haven't seen any problems, but it's only been 2 days. I told her I don't trust her company and I really don't want to do business, etc. I told her that there is Texas Commerce and Business Code, which I think (personally, I'm no expert) that they violoate this code. People, Please look this up. Type in "Texas Business and Commerce Code" and find the section on GIfts and Contest Giveaways or something like that. I thought maybe I felt a bit of fear in the room when I mentioned that. She told me to do some more research and find good results. Ok, so I came home and typed into google: American Laser Center + worked...and it brought me to this link! haha. with a ton of info on how to actuall get your money back. Oh, is this what you'd call Irony? I tried googling good results, but it took a lot of sifting. I don't know why that lady would keep me in there for so long if she didn't care? What do you think her ultierior motives were? I told her I'd take the same steps as the girl who went to ABC and she seemed to laught that off...told me I wouldn't get it back.

I am still skeptical. Can someone please give me some feedback? I kind of feel like I don't have a personal experience except that I don't want to do business with them due to their shady practices, their terrible reviews, etc. I don't want to get hurt. What do ya'll think?

First of all, I think you all should be ashamed of yourselves!

I am an employee of ALC. We do receive our share of complaints but they are few and far between. Of the hundreds of thousands of people we deal with on a regular basis, even the best company can get a few complaints.

I want you to notice that nothing has been posted in over a year. That is because things DO get resolved, it just takes a while since we are such a large company. Refunds have to be approved by a number of people leading their own busy schedules before they can be sent out.

And speaking of refunds, you can't sign paperwork anywhere without reading it first. That is stupidity on your part. Also, you can't take out a loan for a new car, drive it for a while then decide you do not want it anymore and expect a full refund on your loan. Some people do have reactions to our services and products but that is not because of faulty equiptment, untrained workers or inferior products. Refunds are rewarded in those cases.

For the record, the contests we hold have one first prize winner, one second prize winner and a percentage of people picked for third prize (about 1/3rd). Not everyone wins!

My point is, you can't judge a company on it's ethics when only hearing a very VERY small percentage of people that we deal with complain about something that is either in the process of being resolved or of the customers own stupidity or insanity. When you run the largest company in it's field and the fastest growing company in the US, YOU CAN'T PLEASE EVERYONE ALL THE TIME (although we do try)!

RUN AWAY, its a SCAM!

First, you win the $300 coupon contest. Don't get excited, everyone is a winner
Second, they tell you to pick your consultation location
Next, you meet up with an inexperiened scammer in a white coat
She talks you into getting a package offering a fake discount
Don't fall for it. I've been doing my laser treatment at a doctor's office and decided to go there for one tratment because I supposedly won this contest. I come to find out, they are inexperienced and have cheap looking $100 ebay laser machines. STAY AWAY, BEWARE! Make as much noise as you can to put those creeps out of bussiness. SCREAM!

I was ripped off over $2,000.00 I contacted the BBB and State Attorney General and they both said there was nothing I could do other than file a law suit to get my money back. The people at American Laser Centers, basically laughed in my face when I said that I was going to get my refund. I had over 19 treatments and 12 of them were double passes not to mention how the lasers burned and irrated my face. I have seen no results what so ever. It infuriates me that a company can get away with this. I am definetly interested in the class action law suit. Please email me and I would love to participate. The public needs to fight back against this company.

I ALSO am part of this huge lie. There is absolutley no such thing as a refund at American Lasers. I have been going to ALC for about three years and I am way past my "guarenteed time". They did the double passing and even had me come every 3 weeks because it was not working on my face, but that all didn't help. After putting in many complaints they said that "the medical department" would have to look over my pictures and decide if I will get the guarenteed refund. After weeks of waiting I got my answer which was to keep going for reatment. Obviously after 3 years of going for treatment you can see it does not work. I am so frustrated and don't know where to go. I will join any law suit if someone wants to contact me. Jadebcohen@gmail.com