Yuki Mizoguchi – Hair Stylist, 76Style Hair Salon
In this interview, Yuki Mizoguchi, director stylist at 76Style Hair Salon, shares her thoughts on her growth and the industry in Malaysia and Japan.
What do you do?
I work as a hairstylist. I am currently the director stylist at 76STYLE Hair Salon.
How did you get into the industry?
Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by fashion and beauty. Styling hair and applying makeup for friends and myself sparked my dream of turning this passion into a career.
Share with us a story from behind the scenes.
After graduating from a two-year beauty school in Japan, I spent 15 years working at a salon there. Travelling abroad as a hobby made me yearn to work in new places, meet people from different countries, and speak English. Malaysia, with its diverse culture and sunny beaches, became my new home after I fell in love with it during visits with friends. I joined this branch when 76Style Seibu TRX opened after three fulfilling years at the 76Style Mont Kiara branch.
What memory from your childhood or travels stands out?
As a child, family trips to Japanese hot spring inns left lasting memories of relaxation and good times. A month in Europe as an adult ignited a desire to explore life beyond Japan.
What’s the best/ worst part of your job?
In my work, I aim to make clients happy through hair colouring, cutting, and perms, ensuring they feel good from the moment they leave until they return. Working with people from diverse backgrounds has enriched my life.
However, standing all day can sometimes strain my back and body. Taking care of yourself with regular exercise and a relaxing bath is essential.
What styles are trending at the moment?
Hair trends like wolf and mullet styles and designs with fluid lines are currently popular. Highlights, balayage, and multi-colour designs are also in demand.
What’s something unforgettable from behind the scenes?
I’ll always remember the challenge of crafting a wig for an anime cosplayer’s event. It required precise replication skills and was quite nerve-wracking at the time. Nowadays, Japan has specialised salons catering to cosplay enthusiasts.
The perfect day off would be…
shopping, getting my nails done, and dining out with friends. I also love spending time with family and relaxing outdoors.
A day in the life of Yuki Mizoguchi …
starts with getting ready and checking client records. Then, I organise tasks for the team. Throughout the day, I meet with clients and ensure everything runs smoothly. After appointments, I discuss improvements with my assistant. That’s a typical day for me!
What does Yuki Mizoguchi do for fun?
Have a proper rest and spend quality time with family and friends. I also enjoy being outdoors.
What would you like guests to know about 76Style Seibu?
At 76Style SEIBU, we pride ourselves on suggesting hairstyles that suit each client’s unique style. Nail services are also available. Private rooms cater to Muslim customers or those wanting more privacy.
How have you grown in your profession? What have you learned from your start in the industry until now? Are there any misconceptions?
In Japan, I focused on studying hairstyles, specialising in hair arrangements and makeup for weddings and events. I also occasionally worked on hair and makeup for Japanese TV shows. Effective communication is key to ensuring customer satisfaction, a principle that is held true in both Japan and Malaysia. It is not just about speaking; it is about understanding our customers’ unspoken thoughts and desires.
What do you want people to know about being a hairstylist?
A hairstylist’s role extends beyond designing and colouring hair; they are also adept at diagnosing hair conditions and providing essential care and recommendations. This diagnostic skill is crucial in our profession, akin to hair specialists. Moreover, effective time-management skills enable hairstylists to promptly meet customers’ needs. At the same time, attentive listening and imaginative thinking contribute to creating personalised experiences for each client.
What’s your view on the beauty scenes in Japan and Malaysia?
In Japan, trend magazines influence many who are seeking hairstyles like those featured on models. Conversely, KL has a penchant for K-pop trends alongside a diverse array of styles influenced by European, American, Japanese, and other cultures. Each country’s unique preferences result in varied requests. As a hairdresser, navigating this dynamic landscape provides abundant inspiration, making every day enjoyable and exciting.
What practices do you currently implement or hope to implement to work towards social responsibility and sustainability in the future?
I share the expertise I gained as a hairdresser in Japan with my staff, ensuring that our services prioritise customer comfort. We continually refine our techniques to optimise efficiency and minimise client waiting time. Assistants undergo technical assessments, and only upon passing are they permitted to serve customers. Additionally, stylists participate in regular study sessions to enhance their skills and stay abreast of industry developments.
What can guests look forward to in the upcoming months?
We are working on extensive/improved versions of existing hair treatments that cater to clients with concerns about dry, frizzy hair and those with coloured hair.
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