I often get asked, “What kind of products do you use?” This is especially important for people who are concerned about hair damage or have sensitive skin. I use two types of Japanese-made solutions: ARIMINO and NOEMI. Both are designed to be as gentle as possible on the hair and scalp. There are a few key reasons why I trust and continue to use them. 1. Scientifically formulated to minimize damage Both perms and straightening treatments work by using reducing agents and alkaline agents to reshape the hair. When the alkalinity is too high, it tends to cause significant damage to the hair and scalp. ARIMINO and NOEMI have extremely […]

“This hairstyle is trending.” “This cut makes your face look smaller.” “Top 10 most attractive haircuts.” You see so many “answers” in magazines and on social media. But are they really right for you? Is that truly the hairstyle you want for yourself right now? I often find myself questioning that. People often ask me, “What hairstyle suits me best?” But instead of saying “what suits you,” I prefer to think in terms of “what feels most like you.” Matching a style is a technical skill. But drawing out your unique personality — that’s more intuitive. How you speak, your presence, your gaze, your smile… I look at all of […]

“How much will it cost?” — I want to take away that uncertainty Have you ever experienced something like this at a hair salon? ・The price at checkout was higher than the one shown when you booked… ・The menu says, “Extra charges may apply depending on hair length or condition,” but you’re not sure if that applies to you ・There are too many types of color and perm options, and you don’t know which one to choose I’ve eliminated all of those worries and stress. Clear, fair, and simple At International Hairdresser TAKA, the price shown on the menu is the final price. There are no extra fees for hair […]

“I’m not sure which service to choose…” If you’re feeling that way, simply select [Decide on hair service with Taka] when making your appointment. After you arrive, we’ll talk through your concerns, check the condition of your hair and scalp, and decide together what’s best. All services are done on the same day. I make sure enough time is set aside to accommodate any menu—cut, color, perm, straightening, spa, or treatment. There’s no need to rush. We’ll take time to discuss what’s best for you. If you’re short on time, I’ll tailor the service process to fit your schedule. Of course, there’s no extra charge for consultation. If you’re thinking: […]

“I’m living in Japan, but I’m a little nervous about going to a salon.” “I want to get my hair done while traveling, but I’m worried about the language.” I hear these concerns from international guests more often than you might think. But if you’re reading this now, please know — you can relax. I’ve worked in London and Tokyo (Omotesando), and I’ve had the opportunity to work with people from all over the world. Different hair types, cultures, and values — I’ve gained a lot of experience adapting to that diversity. Don’t Worry About the Language Barrier I speak both Japanese and English. Even if your language is different, […]

Why Do We Only Act “After the Damage Is Done”? In the world of beauty, the idea of “prevention” has existed for a long time. UV care, scalp care, anti-aging care… all are done for the sake of the future. But in reality, most people take action only after something has happened— “Using treatment after hair becomes dry,” or “Searching for hair growth products after noticing hair loss.” Ideally, care should start before the problem arises. But somehow, preventive beauty still hasn’t become the norm. ⸻ Is There More Profit in “Fixing It After It Breaks”? It may be uncomfortable to admit, but in the beauty industry, there’s a structure […]

“Hair salons make me feel a little nervous.” I’ve heard this more times than you might think. Everyone feels differently about the distance between themselves and a hairdresser. Some people don’t feel like talking at all, while others feel they have to keep the conversation going out of politeness. But I believe that salons should be a space where it’s okay to stay silent. During the consultation, I always listen carefully. But after that, you really don’t need to talk if you don’t feel like it. Even in silence, your hair says so much. Split ends, how your hair dries, your natural parting, the thickness and weight— they all quietly […]

“I have curly hair… and honestly, I don’t know what to do with it.” That’s something I often hear during consultations. Wavy, frizzy, hard to manage. Affected by humidity. Can’t live without a flat iron. Curly hair comes with many deeply personal challenges. But I don’t see curly hair as a negative. In fact, I believe there’s beauty in the natural movement and expression that only curls can create. What matters is not trying to “fix” the curls— but reading them, and designing a haircut that works with them. How the hair moves. How it reacts to humidity. How different it looks when wet vs. dry. — These patterns are […]

Hairstyles in Your 40s: It’s Not About Looking Younger—It’s About Looking Truly Beautiful. “I just don’t know what kind of hairstyle suits me anymore.” This is something I often hear from clients in their 40s and 50s. Behind that, I sense a deeper feeling— “I don’t want to look older,” but also, “I don’t want to force myself to look younger.” As a hairstylist, I truly believe this: Rather than chasing a “younger look,” we should be discovering the hairstyle that makes you look your best, your most authentic self. Of course, hairstyles can change your overall appearance dramatically. But it shouldn’t be about tricks to look young—it should be […]

Quality time with each guest, not just quantity I only take up to two guests a day—one in the morning, one in the afternoon. That’s it. “Wouldn’t you earn more if you took more clients?” I get asked that sometimes. But for me, what’s far more important is truly facing each guest—their hair and their life. It’s not just about cutting hair A haircut isn’t just about making things neat. I always imagine the scenes ahead in your life—who you’ll meet, where you’re going, and how you want to feel—while I cut. Creating a hairstyle that fits your life—not just your face—takes time. No rushing. No assembly line. That’s why […]