1 /5 Rachel Flores: I live in New York, where I own a hair salon in the Lower East Side. My parents live in Belmont Heights, so I come to visit often. When I’m home I always go to Gem to treat myself. I booked an appointment for my mom and myself for a pedicure and a gel removal/ manicure. To the point, I asked if the technician would not file the surface of my nails down. I said I don’t mind if they don’t last long, I just need to keep the thickness of my nail. Working with my hands, it’s extremely important that I maintain the integrity of my nails. The person continued to file them with a rough grain file. Layers of my nail were peeling off. I asked her to stop.several times. I told her it was painful. She responded by slapping my hands. Yes slapping my hands. 3 different times. I’m embarrassed to say I was shaken. I was uncomfortable. I was embarrassed and uncomfortable to speak up. I was crying and I continued to try and plead with her to stop. Then she pulled out the dremmel. That’s when I said no more. After that she was more rude to me. I left with nails that are uneven and bend when touched. One is sharp and one is flat and two have broken since yesterday. That’s all. Hope this helps