Welcome to Íli Kō, your sanctuary for sugaring and beauty services. I’m Candida, the owner and a passionate aesthetician. My journey into aesthetics started while working at a dermatologist’s office, where I discovered my fascination with skin care. But my true passion for aesthetics was solidified when I gave my best friend Frannie a facial before her wedding. In Hawaiian, we call it kapakahi, meaning disorganized and messy. She lay on my floor as I used kitchen bowls and whatever drugstore products I could find. Despite my lack of formal training at the time, I was amazed by how radiant her skin looked afterward. In that moment, I knew I wanted to become an aesthetician and share this gift with others.

Over the years, I honed my skills at various award-winning spas and salons, learning everything from advanced facials to med spa treatments and sugaring hair removal. While facials are my first love and expertise, I also became proficient in hair removal techniques. A life-changing event in 2018 pushed me to seek a way to support my four children on my own, leading me to remember an inspiring individual who was introducing sugaring on Oahu. She certified me over a weekend, and I was determined to master this art. After a steep learning curve, I mustered the courage to open my own spa two years later.

I wasn’t sure how the Hilo community would respond to sugaring, but I believed in its natural and gentle benefits. To my delight, it became an instant hit and Íli Kō has been thriving ever since. We constantly strive to evolve and grow in this progressive aesthetic industry. I’m incredibly honored to have my two daughters join me as part of the Íli Kō team, and it has been my greatest joy to train them and instill the values of service in them.

My goal remains the same as it was that day with Frannie: to serve and give to everyone who lays on my table and make them feel their most beautiful. Thank you for the blessing of allowing us to serve you!