SMOOTH - Electrolysis by Shelley

SMOOTH is an electrolysis and waxing studio in Englewood run under the name Electrolysis by Shelley. The studio's stated mission is to create a safe space for a diverse clientele. Its electrolysis work is handled by three professionals, the owner Shelley, electrologist Nadine and licensed esthetician Meccah, who specializes in electrolysis.

The salon states that electrolysis is the only form of permanent hair removal approved by the FDA and that it has more than 100 years of safe use, recommended by physicians and plastic surgeons. It also states that electrolysis can be used on all areas of the face and body, all hair types, skin tones and colors, and over tattoos and permanent makeup. The salon notes that laser hair reduction does not remove all hair and does not suit every skin tone, hair color and texture.

Booking is by appointment only. Every new client has a consultation first, which costs $55 and includes no treatment time, even for people who have had electrolysis elsewhere or have a physician referral. A first treatment can be booked on the same day. Time needed is discussed at the consultation, and sessions are booked by length, from 5 minutes ($45) to 120 minutes ($270), with a maximum of 2 hours per session. Sessions of 90 minutes or more must be booked by phone or text. Electrolysis is treated as an ongoing plan rather than a one-time visit, and pre-treatment numbing options are available.

Brazilian waxing for women is done with premium hard wax. The Signature SMOOTH Brazilian Wax is $65 and includes butt strips. The Super SMOOTH Brazilian Wax is $75 and adds a preventative high frequency ingrown hair treatment. Male Brazilian waxing is not offered.

Clients are asked to have hair at tweezable length on the day of treatment, arrive well hydrated, avoid caffeine that day and may take an anti-inflammatory medication about an hour before. Treated skin may be red and bumpy for up to 24 hours. Cancellations or reschedules need 24 hours' notice for services of 60 minutes or less, including the consultation, and 48 hours for services of 75 minutes or more. A late cancellation or no-show is charged 100% of the booked treatment cost to the card on file, and a consultation cancelled within 24 hours or missed carries a flat $55 fee. A valid card must be kept on file. Late arrivals are charged the full booked amount. Guests, children and pets are not permitted at appointments.

Electrolysis is treated as a customized, ongoing plan rather than a single visit, and the studio follows the Standards of Infection Control from the American Electrology Association, which draw on CDC, OSHA and APIC guidelines.

The stated aim is a welcoming, comfortable setting on the sixth floor of the Chase Tower building.