When I trained with Lancome, we were encouraged to do our best to "build sales" because that is what we were hired to do; however, I was never told to play upon a customer's flaws. We were always told to point out how to enhance a person's features, so if the SA was being critical, it is probably her own sales technique.
As for suggestive selling, it is just the way it is...though Lancome calls it "product linkage". The goal is to link products so a customer goes away with the appropriate "power system." Lancome's website does the same thing. If you intend to buy a lipstick, the correct lipliner and lipgloss will appear to the side indicating that product's power system...or how to get the best look from that particular product.
The same thing happens with clothing...the Gap and BR has suggested numerous skirts to go with shirts, plus accessories.
Selling will always be selling...no matter where it happens.
