Smooth Epilator

Ana Maria Lopez started Smooth Epilator as a solo electrolysis and skincare business after working independently and in corporate environments in the beauty field. The studio is located on Buckingham Loop Drive in Valrico and welcomes clients from across the Tampa Bay area. Every visit is booked in advance by phone, text or email.

Electrolysis is the studio's core service. Sessions run up to 60 minutes at $120 and are performed with an Apilus xCell Pur device, which uses ultrafast radio frequency. The salon states that this frequency works up to six times faster than other hair removal devices. Treatment can be done with galvanic, thermolysis, or a blend of both methods, and it can reach hair on most of the body apart from inside the ear and nose and on moles. Hair must be at least 1/16 of an inch long to be treated. The salon uses single-use, pre-sterilized probes and follows CDC universal precautions and sterilization procedures. According to the salon, electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal method recognized by the FDA and AMA, and laser hair reduction is not permanent and may leave hairs that electrolysis can then address.

Each electrolysis session is paired with complimentary skincare before and after the hair removal, so the visit covers both. Skincare treatments begin with a free Skin Scope analysis of the skin and typically include targeted cleansing, enzyme exfoliation, extractions, a treatment mask, moisturizer and SPF protection. Clients can tailor cleansing, exfoliation, ampoule, mask and treatment choices. Add-ons include DermaGlow Diamond Microdermabrasion, a Lacto-Flora Peel, High Frequency treatment, a Ginko De-Stress and Anti-Aging Eye Treatment, and Celluma LED Light Therapy, which uses blue, red and near-infrared light. The salon says Celluma is based on NASA research and suggests two sessions a week, with more frequent use allowed.

Before a first electrolysis session, clients complete a complimentary 15-minute consultation by phone or in person. It reviews whether treatment is suitable, what results are realistic, the likely causes of the hair growth, and any hair removal methods tried before. Treatment forms are required, and some are mandatory before service can go ahead. Pregnant clients are not treated and are advised to speak with their physician first.

A $50 deposit may be requested when booking and is deducted from the final bill. Cancellations need 24 hours notice, otherwise a $50 cancellation fee applies. Clients should arrive 10 minutes early, and arriving more than 5 minutes late may lead to rescheduling and a full charge. Gift cards are available for purchase on the website.

Pairs each electrolysis session with skincare before and after, so the whole visit is built around the client.