When 35-year-old businessman John Tang (not his real name), got a job at an investment bank, his boss had high expectations of him. Mr Tang exceeded these expectations and faced a bright future.
After three years at the company, however, he faced a crisis. Instead of gaining respect in the industry, he gained weight, rising from 190 pounds to 230 pounds.
Long hours, a stressful workplace and daily drinks and dinner with clients were taking their toll. Putting on weight led to sleep problems, and Mr Tang's boss began to complain about his lack of concentration.
His doctor warned him of potential health hazards, and he realised things would have to change.
Mr Tang went to Mence, a leading skin care and men's beauty centre.
In 15 weeks, having gone to the centre for three two-hour sessions a week, he lost 40 pounds. With his health restored, he secured a large deal for his company and his career was back on track.
This might sound like a fairy tale but Mence Tsoi Man-sze, co-founder and chief executive of Mence, said such cases were common. She said men often went to beauty centres not just to improve their appearance, but for an array of health reasons.