Self-care doesn’t always have to mean splurging on a luxury spa retreat or booking an entire weekend away. Sometimes, all it takes is setting aside a few hours to do something that helps you feel like your best self again. Whether that’s finally getting your hair coloured, easing months of built-up muscle tension, enjoying a nourishing meal or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved dessert, it’s often the little moments that make the biggest difference.
While Sunshine Plaza is best known for its printing shops and eateries, the mall is also home to a handful of long-standing businesses that make it surprisingly easy to plan a relaxing afternoon from start to finish. If you’re looking for a slower-paced alternative to Singapore’s busier shopping districts, here’s an easy itinerary that lets you refresh both body and mind—all under one roof.
Why Sunshine Plaza Works Surprisingly Well for a Self-Care Day
One of Sunshine Plaza’s biggest strengths is how convenient everything is. Instead of travelling across the island for a salon appointment, massage, lunch and dessert, you can comfortably enjoy all four in a single visit without feeling rushed.
Its quieter atmosphere also works in its favour. Compared to larger malls where crowds are the norm, Sunshine Plaza offers a more laid-back experience that lets you genuinely unwind.
Stop 1: Start with a Fresh New Look at FAME Salon
Nothing says “fresh start” quite like walking out of a salon feeling more confident than when you walked in.
If you’re planning to refresh your hairstyle or finally commit to a new hair colour, FAME Salon is an excellent place to begin your self-care day. The salon offers everything from hair colouring, highlights and perms to styling, hair treatments and even hair loss solutions, making it suitable whether you’re after a dramatic makeover or subtle maintenance.
Much of the salon’s reputation comes down to Niki, whose warm personality and years of experience have earned her a loyal base of returning customers. Rather than rushing consultations, she takes the time to understand each client’s preferences, lifestyle and concerns before recommending a look that genuinely suits them. For regular patrons, visits become even more effortless, as she’s often already thought through potential styles and colour ideas before they even arrive.
One detail that particularly stands out is her colouring technique. Instead of leaving clients with harsh regrowth or uneven fading, the colour gradually develops into another complementary tone over time, allowing hair to continue looking natural even after several washes. Combined with her commitment to staying up to date with the latest colouring trends and techniques, it’s easy to see why so many customers continue returning year after year.
Whether you’re opting for a complete transformation or simply touching up your current look, it’s the perfect way to kick off a day dedicated to yourself.
FAME Salon
Location: Bencoolen St, Sunshine Plaza, Singapore 189652
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11 AM – 8:30 PM | Closed on Sundays
Stop 2: Ease Away Aches at Master Bodyworks
Once you’ve refreshed your appearance, it’s time to look after something that’s often neglected—your body.
Master Bodyworks isn’t just somewhere to enjoy a relaxing massage; it’s a place many people visit to address long-standing muscle tightness, posture issues and everyday aches. Treatments are carried out by experienced masseuses who understand body anatomy exceptionally well and tailor every session according to each client’s specific needs.
Rather than following a standard routine, sessions focus on identifying the root of the discomfort. Whether you’re dealing with stiff shoulders from hours behind a desk, persistent back pain, tight hips or poor posture, treatments are designed to help improve alignment while relieving built-up tension. The team has also assisted clients dealing with frozen shoulders, muscle knots and other mobility issues by carefully manipulating areas that have fallen out of alignment.
The result isn’t simply feeling relaxed for an hour—it is walking away noticeably lighter, looser and better equipped to take on the week ahead.
If you prefer a more traditional wellness experience, Renxin Traditional Chinese Medicine Spa is another worthwhile option within the mall. Besides foot reflexology and shoulder or back massages, the clinic also offers Traditional Chinese Medicine consultations and treatments for common ailments such as coughs, flu and high blood pressure, making it a good alternative for those seeking a more holistic approach to well-being.
Master Bodyworks
Location: Bencoolen St, #01-87, Singapore 189652
Opening Hours: Operating hours publicly unavailable
Stop 3: Recharge with a Healthy Lunch at J Smile Cafe by Souper Salad
After a morning of self-care, there’s no better time to refuel with something wholesome.
J Smile Cafe by Souper Salad specialises in fresh, generously portioned salads that prove healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Every salad comes with a drink, making it a surprisingly value-for-money meal, especially considering the quality and variety of ingredients included.
If you enjoy customising your meals, you’ll appreciate the build-your-own option, where you can choose your preferred greens, proteins, toppings and dressing to suit your taste. Everything is freshly prepared, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a lighter yet satisfying lunch.
The café also offers pastries for those wanting a mid-afternoon treat. Their pastry sets are particularly worth considering, pairing your choice of pastry with a beverage that’s presented far more elegantly than the modest price might suggest.
With its clean, cosy interior and genuinely friendly staff, J Smile Cafe feels like the kind of neighbourhood café you’d happily return to. Just remember to head down a little earlier if you intend to dine in, as seating is fairly limited.
J Smile Cafe by Souper Salad
Location: 91 Bencoolen St, #01-58 Sunshine Plaza, Singapore 189652
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM | Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays
Stop 4: Finish with Gelato at Freshio
No self-care day feels complete without rewarding yourself with dessert.
Freshio has quietly become one of Singapore’s most highly rated gelato spots, and it’s easy to understand why once you step inside. Before you’ve even made your decision, the staff generously offer samples of several popular flavours, giving you the chance to discover a new favourite without any pressure.
Among the standout choices is Pancake, a surprisingly accurate recreation of maple syrup-drizzled hotcakes that will undoubtedly satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. French Vanilla impresses with its authentic vanilla bean flavour instead of relying on artificial extracts, while Bourbon Dark Chocolate offers a richer, more indulgent finish for chocolate lovers.
If you’re after the classic pairing, their fluffy waffles make an excellent companion to the gelato. Alternatively, Freshio’s paninis offer a savoury option that’s a little different from your typical café fare.
The bright interior, complete with charming astronaut-themed décor, creates a cheerful space that’s ideal for winding down after an afternoon of pampering. While the café isn’t particularly large, its relaxed atmosphere makes it a lovely place to sit back, enjoy your dessert and let the day come to a gentle close.
Freshio
Location: 91 Bencoolen St, #01-60 Sunshine Plaza, Singapore 189652
Opening Hours: Thursday-Tuesday: 12 PM – 10 PM | Closed on Wednesdays
Final Thoughts
A good self-care day isn’t about packing your schedule with as many activities as possible—it’s about making time for things that leave you feeling happier, healthier and more refreshed than when you started.
That’s exactly what makes Sunshine Plaza such an unexpectedly enjoyable destination. You can update your hairstyle with the help of an experienced stylist, work out lingering aches with a therapeutic massage, nourish yourself with a wholesome meal and finish everything off with excellent gelato, all without needing to leave the building.
It may not be the newest or trendiest mall in Singapore, but perhaps that’s part of its appeal. Hidden behind its unassuming façade is a collection of passionate independent businesses that have quietly built loyal followings over the years. If you’re overdue for a little “me time”, Sunshine Plaza might just surprise you.