Is It Really Best for a Straight Perm to Last Long? “It’s better if it lasts a long time, right?” This is something I often hear—not just about straightening, but also about cuts and perms in general. But actually, “long-lasting equals better” isn’t always true. In this post, I want to focus specifically on straightening and share my thoughts. There Are Two Main Types of Straightening Treatments When people in Japan hear the word “straightening,” they often think of: Japanese straight perm (shukumoukyousei) Straight perm Hair texture improvement Acid straightening Acid heat treatment, etc. But broadly speaking, they fall into two categories: ① Straightening with chemicals + flat iron → […]

Worried About Getting a Perm? We Offer 15 Types of Rods to Suit Your Hair Type Not sure if a perm will work on your hair Want a style that reflects who you are, not just trends Interested in trying a style that’s popular overseas If you’ve ever felt that way— this page might give you the answers you’ve been looking for. At Hairdresser TAKA, we offer 15 different types of perm rods. Our thinnest rod is 6mm, and the thickest is 30mm. We’re equipped to handle all hair types, ages, and style trends. Here’s why having 15 types of rods really matters. 1. Because we can match the rod […]

It’s Not Just About Technique – The Value I Add to Every Hairstyle Hair salon prices vary quite a bit, don’t they? Some are inexpensive, while others are on the higher end. So what causes this difference? Location? Facilities? The vibe of the salon? Skills? Products used? Urban or rural? — Of course, all of those play a role. But there’s one more important factor. That’s “added value.” What is “added value” anyway? Even with the exact same haircut, whether someone feels it’s “special” or not depends on the meaning behind it. To me, “added value” means providing a hairstyle that truly connects with each individual client’s life. The depth […]

Is “No Damage” Really True? A Hairdresser Speaks Honestly About Treatments and Hair Damage We often see phrases on social media and in advertisements like: “Damage-free color,” “Non-damaging perm,” or “No-damage straightening.” — They sound reassuring, don’t they? But let me be honest with you. Such a technique doesn’t exist. It might be a bit shocking, but as a hairdresser, I want to tell the truth. Whenever You Change the Color or Shape of Hair, There *Will* Be Damage The only way to change the color or shape of hair is with chemicals. To let those chemicals penetrate the inner structure of the hair, we must force the pH balance […]

Tired of the Typical Hairstyles in Your Country? Let’s Find a Style That’s Uniquely You This is for you if: You’re getting tired of trendy hairstyles You want to enjoy a look that’s different from others You value “yourself” before what’s simply “suitable” Have you ever looked at hairstyles on the street or social media and thought, “They all kind of look the same…”? If you live in a mostly mono-ethnic country, it’s not surprising—similar facial features and culture often lead to similar styles. And even in multi-ethnic countries, it’s not always easy to know what really suits your unique look. But that’s not enough reason to settle. I believe […]

Have you ever thought, “If only my eyes were bigger…” “If my hair were different…” “If I looked more like that person…”? In many Asian cultures, including Japan, modesty is often seen as a virtue. Saying “I’m confident in myself” can sometimes feel uncomfortable — even arrogant. But I believe real confidence isn’t about being perfect. It’s about recognizing and accepting who you are right now. Why Owning Your Natural Features is Beautiful As a hairstylist, I’ve seen it so many times: When people stop chasing what they don’t have and start embracing what they do have, something magical happens. Wavy or curly hair? Let’s bring out its natural movement. […]

Not Just Trends—A Hairstyle That Reflects Your True Self | Hairdresser Taka “I’m not really sure what hairstyle suits me best.” If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re definitely not alone. In this post, I’d like to share the perspective I’ve developed over 15+ years as a hairstylist, working with all kinds of hair and people—what it really means to find a hairstyle that suits you. More than just following trends, I believe in helping you discover and highlight your natural charm and individuality. I hope this page can inspire a fresh step forward for you. Even Perfect Technique Isn’t Enough to Make Someone Truly Happy When I first started […]

There are so many types of hair salons out there— large chain salons, privately owned studios, freelance stylists… It’s no wonder people often wonder, “Which salon is the right fit for me?” In this post, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of one-on-one services offered by freelance hairstylists based on my personal experience. What is one-on-one service? It’s a style where one stylist handles everything—from consultation to finishing—on their own. I personally work this way, without using assistants, focusing entirely on each client. Advantages 1. Personalized attention to detail From the pressure during shampooing to drink preferences and the tone of conversation, I can tailor everything to suit […]

Just a Hairstyle? Or Something More? What Does Hair Mean to You? A single hairstyle can make life feel a bit more positive. This is a story about one of my clients. They’ve been coming in for a monthly haircut for quite some time. This person holds a very important position in their company, and one day, they casually said something to me: “Ever since I started getting my hair cut by you, Taka, it feels like work has been going much more smoothly.” Of course, I don’t think a hairstyle alone can make everything at work go perfectly. But hearing that made me realize something really important. A hairstyle […]

Why I Don’t Ask “What Kind of Hairstyle Do You Want Today?” When you go to a hair salon, haven’t you been asked something like this at the beginning? “What kind of hairstyle do you want today?” “How many centimeters should I cut?” “What color would you like?” “Do you want a perm?” Of course, some people can respond clearly to these questions. But many people may feel, “I can’t explain it well,” or “I don’t know what suits me.” What if a hair salon were like a hospital? Let’s say you have a fever and go to the hospital. What if the doctor started by asking you questions like […]