Takako Kikuchi

The studio is run by stylist Takako Kikuchi, who works under her own name. Japanese Hair Straightening was developed in Japan in the mid-1990s and reached the United States in 2000. The studio describes it as the number one system for permanent straightening, and states its aim as bringing out poise and happiness through beauty.

Her early training at Yuko Salon in Beverly Hills spanned four years, during which she worked under Ms. Yamashita. She then joined Yuko's education staff, and an invitation later took her to teach in New York. Across Hallows courses she has served as a training assistant and demonstrator, and she works hands-on with the Liscio and Hallows systems. Her styling credits include film and photo shoots. Her stylist training took place across Southern California, before she started at Yuko. She has recently begun working independently.

A visit begins with a free consultation, where prior chemical treatments, perms or color are discussed and the hair is analyzed. Suitability depends on hair condition and is assessed by the stylist before service. Hair is then shampooed and pre-treated to balance its condition. A first solution softens the hair and breaks protein bonds, left on for 10 to 60 minutes, with a strand test checking completion. The hair is blow-dried to 10-15% moisture and ironed in very small sections with a ceramic thermal iron. A neutralizer, left on 10 to 15 minutes, balances pH and seals the straight bond. Conditioning, a blow-dry in the direction of the cuticle and a finishing flat iron pass complete the service.

Touch-ups are typically needed every six months to a year, depending on maintenance and hair growth rate, and touch-ups with other straightening systems are allowed if the hair is undamaged. Home care products are recommended between visits. Introductory rates are offered to first-time clients, and specials to returning clients.

Takako developed her own method, choosing products suited to each client's hair, and starts every service with a discussion of prior treatments followed by a hair analysis.