Woman Left with Scar After Using Guardian’s Facial Wipes
Have you ever bought a skincare product expecting glowing results, only to end up with a nasty surprise? That’s exactly what happened to Huda Ismail, a self-employed finance professional, who recently shared her troubling experience with Guardian’s Exfoliating Facial Wipes.
The Unexpected Reaction
In March, Huda picked up the facial wipes at the Guardian store in Bedok Reservoir, drawn in by the promise of a dermatologically tested product. She thought it would be a convenient solution for removing dirt and leftover makeup. However, after using the wipes, she noticed small, dried pimples popping up on her face, including a concerning abrasion on her left cheek.
Seeking Help
Two days later, Huda reached out to Guardian’s customer service. They advised her to see a doctor and get a medical memo. She was told that Guardian would follow up with her by February 24, but that call never came. Frustrated, Huda emailed the doctor for a follow-up, only to be met with silence.
After 22 days, she decided to voice her concerns on Guardian’s Facebook page. This time, she received a response, but it wasn’t what she hoped for. The company claimed they weren’t liable for her injury, suggesting it could have been caused by an existing pimple. They pointed her to the fine print on the product, which warned against contact with broken skin.
Compensation and Ongoing Issues
While Guardian offered Huda a $20 voucher as a goodwill gesture, they made no admission of responsibility. She highlighted that there are scar treatments available that cost over $20, leaving her feeling unsatisfied with their response. Huda now has a significant scar on her left cheek, which has become a constant reminder of her experience.
“It’s utterly absurd,” she expressed to AsiaOne. Huda had previously used other brands like Watsons and Gatsby without any issues. Initially, she felt no irritation, but soon after, she noticed blood on the wipes and bruising on her cheek.
Medical Consultation and Aftermath
Following the incident, Huda visited a doctor who suggested applying a scar gel after the wound healed. She paid $16 for the consultation, which Guardian later agreed to reimburse. However, her complaint remains unresolved, as she feels Guardian has ignored her case for too long.
“It’s disappointing when a brand you trust doesn’t take responsibility,” she lamented. The scar on her face has become a source of anxiety, and she’s unsure how long it will take to fade.
Lessons Learned
This incident raises an important question: How can companies improve their product safety? Better packaging that prevents direct contact with the skin and materials that reduce the risk of abrasions could be a start.
For more information on skincare safety, check out Health Promotion Board.
In the end, Huda’s experience serves as a reminder to all of us to be cautious with new products and to hold brands accountable for their promises.