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Allegra Ko.
Jun 27, 2026
Store is small but picture-perfect, but the sales rep was weirdly aggressive to me after I asked to swatch a lipstick. I tried to casually chat and said I had looked online but thought the images seemed to show slightly different colors, so I wanted to see in person what I was buying... Rep was insistent that the website is never, ever inaccurate, and kept pushing that it was my fault for not accounting for the colors being swatched on a white background, skintone, undertones, etc. I said that was exactly why I wanted to see it in person, that screens can display colors differently, that it could absolutely be my "fault"... but the rep would not let it go until another customer came in, at which point I was ignored even when I said I wanted to buy.
This could've been a much more pleasant experience and an opportunity for the sales rep to sell me ("if it isn't the right color, let me know, we can swatch others!" "If you like this one, you'll like xyz!") instead I walked away never wanting to come back to a MAC again.
I cannot thank the incredible team at MAC Beauty at the San Mateo location enough! Last Friday, I called in absolute desperation needing last-minute makeup for an important event I had to go to. The manager, Jade, was a total lifesaver. She was so empathetic to my situation, especially regarding my struggles with covering and concealing hyperpigmentation. She promised to check for cancellations, called me right back just like she said she would, and was able to get me scheduled.
When I arrived, Cecile did my makeup and she was nothing short of amazing. Hyperpigmentation is incredibly difficult to conceal, but Cecile worked with it flawlessly and made me feel absolutely beautiful. Once I left her chair, I was getting so many compliments before I even made it out of the mall, as well as on the way to my event! Since I didn't know a lot, I really appreciated that she asked about my skin type to find the best products. She explained so many different things that I did not know about applying makeup, and the products I bought from her are going to help me out so much in the future. She is so passionate about her work, incredibly easy to talk to, and had me laughing and smiling the whole time.
They did everything to make me feel comfortable, and I just really appreciate both of these ladies so much.
They do get very busy, so I highly recommend trying to book in advance! Jade and Cecile are phenomenal women who truly love their customers and their craft. The customer service here is unmatched, and I will definitely be back. Highly recommend!
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Christina Crawford
Jun 14, 2026
A big thank you and shout out to Jade and Cecily. These two were absolutely incredible. Long story short, I came into this store after I noticed a man was following me around the mall and making me very uncomfortable. I walked in, explained my situation. They immediately stuck by me the entire time and notified security. Security then escorted me to my car after the man went away. These ladies were so kind, professional, and made me feel safe. I appreciate the care they had for someone looking for help even though I didn't enter the store to shop. Jade and Cecily are stand out human beings and I know their care and assistance translates well into their work.
Today Cheryl did my makeup and it was my first experience. It turned out absolutely amazing — honestly, I didn’t expect it to look this good. Everyone kept asking about my makeup, and of course I gave them Cheryl’s name. She was incredibly kind, friendly, and attentive, and clearly very talented at what she does. Thank you so much, Cheryl. You made me incredibly happy today💄💋
I had such a wonderful experience here! Cecile did my makeup and she was so kind and thoughtful, asking me how I wanted to do my makeup. All the workers were so sweet as well taking their time to introduce themselves and talk with me.
I was questioning if I should become a "MAC girly" again and now I am! Thank you MAC Hillsdale team!!