Refuge of relaxation
The number of beauty salons and spa centres in the recent past has increased exponentially in the city. While even half a decade ago women would only have a few given options for their grooming, the scenario has drastically changed with small parlours set up in almost every locality. This however is not the story of Figurina.
The business was set up long before the beauty industry gained popularity in Bangladesh and was established with the intent of providing recreational services for women -- a rare option in the distant past.
Najmee Ali set up Figurina in Chittagong in 1980 a room of her house where women would gather for aerobics and spend time together as a community. As years went by and the need for beauty services emerged, Figurina expanded its business and started catering to salon services for women.
Originating in Chittagong, Figurina set up its business in Dhaka city in 1991, led by Abida Ali, daughter of Najmee Ali.
Before Abida Ali took over the business, she obtained a diploma in Spa and an Honours equivalent degree on skin care from Canada. She believes that it is important as a beautician to impart proper and useful advice to her clientele for which an in-depth knowledge on the subject matter is a prerequisite. Figurina specialises in spa and skin care services led by Abida herself, as well as bridal care and regular salon facilities.
The centre offers a range of spa facilities including exfoliating spa, skin polishing/toning, paraffin waxing, and reflexology -- a technique of stimulating reflex points on the feet, hands, and head with finger points, which promotes health using the body's energetic pathways.
Aroma therapy -- therapeutic application of plant essential oils, which has a bundle of health benefits is among the other various kinds of spa offerings by Figurina. These spa sessions are priced at Tk.800-4,000 and can be experienced at your convenience as their duration is just about one-and-a-half hours.
Figurina specialises in a variety of skin care solutions including acne, malisma, wrinkles, etc. for both prevention and cure of skin problems. Abida Ali strongly believes in drawing a line beyond which skin care solutions must be overtaken by dermatologists.
Aerobics, which it all started with, still remains one of the most popular services offered by Figurina. Daylong classes starting from 9 am till 8 pm are held for all groups of customers, as well as weekend classes for working women. Each of these sessions cost Tk.400. Monthly subscriptions can also be obtained for Tk.3,000 (with an admission fee of Tk.2,500).
Other services such as nail art, hair styling and the usual manicure and pedicure can also be availed at Figurina, located in House #64 (2nd & 5th floor), Road 17, Block E, Banani, Dhaka. For queries call 882875.
Photo courtesy: Figurina
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