2024-10-31｜Lena

In recent years, Taiwanese women have predominantly favored Korean hairstyles. While Japanese styles also have their fans, many women hesitate, worried about manageability and whether the styles suit their head shapes. What are the key differences between Japanese and Korean hairstyles? What should you keep in mind when styling Japanese haircuts? Can those with flat head shapes or coarse hair pull off trendy Japanese short haircuts? In this article, Iris from Happy Hair Beitun in Taichung will provide insights to help you understand Japanese hairstyles better.

Catalogue

I. Key differences between Japanese and Korean hairstyles

II. Styling tips and considerations for Japanese and Korean hairstyles

III. Can coarse hair try Japanese hairstyles?

IV. Can a flat head shape achieve voluminous Japanese short hair?

V. Discovering the appeal of Japanese hairstyles

The biggest difference between Japanese and Korean hairstyles is the approach to volume. Japanese styles don’t prioritize fullness; instead, they focus on achieving light, airy lines and a naturally tousled look. High layers and thinning techniques are used to create a youthful appearance. In contrast, Korean hairstyles emphasize volume and fullness, resulting in a thicker, more textured look with natural curls that add a slightly mature vibe to the overall style.

Compared to Japan and Korea, Taiwan’s climate is more humid and hot, so both Japanese and Korean hairstyles have been slightly modified to suit Taiwan’s weather. Japanese styles here reduce some of the airy texture to prevent the hair from becoming too oily or sticky in humid conditions. Korean styles are adapted with added volume and more defined waves to ensure the curls hold longer.

In terms of daily maintenance, Korean hairstyles are easier to style, but Iris notes a trade-off: "Although they’re easy to maintain, the natural waves can still be affected by humidity, making it challenging to keep the look intact." Japanese hairstyles require a bit more effort to style. Due to the cutting techniques and desired look, styling products like setting sprays or hair wax are essential. Iris adds, "If you're considering a Japanese hairstyle, it’s important to be prepared for regular styling and using hair products."

The lightweight feel of Japanese hairstyles might make some wonder if women with coarse, thick, or naturally curly hair can embrace this style. According to Iris, Japanese hairstyles suit both coarse and fine hair. However, for those with coarse or naturally curly hair, it’s best to keep some length to create a soft look and allow the weight to add natural drape. Iris emphasizes, “If you have natural curls, regular styling is essential; without it, the hair may appear frizzy, which disrupts the desired airy effect.” She also notes, “If the hair is severely damaged, attempting a Japanese hairstyle may not achieve the intended quality and texture.”

Many people judge their suitability for a style based on personal attributes. For instance, many might think those with a flat head shape can’t achieve voluminous Japanese short hair. However, with layered cuts, the back of the head can appear more rounded, making high-layered short hair an ideal way to enhance head shape for those with flatter profiles. Iris explains that, since East Asians typically lack fullness at the back of the head, both cut and perming techniques play an essential role. “In Taiwan, there’s generally a low willingness to perm short hairstyles, but adding a perm is key for a natural, airy look. For fine hair, especially, a perm is needed to create volume at the crown; otherwise, it just looks like a regular short cut.” Iris highlights this as the secret to a beautiful short hairstyle for fine hair.

Since childhood, Iris loved styling others' hair. In high school, she studied international trade, but during her senior year, she realized that business wasn't her passion. Inspired by a friend’s remark, "You should consider hairdressing," she took a leap into the world of hairstyling. Despite the popularity of Korean styles today, Iris remains dedicated to Japanese-inspired looks due to her love for Japanese culture and its aesthetic approach. Looking at Iris's Instagram, you’ll notice her unique use of the term "semi-Japanese" rather than the typical "Japanese" or "Korean" style labels. This choice reflects her adaptation of Japanese hairstyles for Taiwan's humid climate by blending a subtle wet look preferred in Japan with a hint of Korean style. This modification minimizes the need for styling products in Taiwan’s hot and humid weather, making the style easier to maintain and more suitable for local clients, hence the term "semi-Japanese."

Hairstylist Information

HAPPY HAIR Beitun Branch – Iris

Iris's Instagram: @iris_happyhair

LINE Consultation & Booking: @hjc1186w (include the "@" symbol)

HAPPY HAIR Beitun Branch: No. 253, Section 1, Xing'an Road, Beitun District, Taichung City

Further Reading:

• Top 8 Easy-to-Manage Curly Hairstyles of 2022

• 4 Key Tips for Choosing the Right Hair Color

• Ultra-Transparent Japanese Hair Colors: Creamy Blonde and Orange Milk Tea for Bright, Radiant Skin!

• What’s the Hottest Layered Cut of 2024? Layered Styles Are Easier to Manage Than You Think!

• Effortless Perm Styles for Women: Korean C-Curl Perms for Short and Long Hair

• Versatile Water Wave Perm: Adds Volume, Balances Round Faces, and Lifts Flat Crowns!

• 2023’s Top 6 Short Hairstyles for Women: Japanese Pixie, Korean Blunt Cut – Face Shape and Style Guide

• Top 8 Easy-to-Manage Curly Hairstyles of 2023