After an inspiring educational trip to Japan in March 2025, Scotland’s largest salon group, the award-winning Rainbow Room International, is now incorporating key learnings and insights into the salon environment.
The trip was made possible by Laura Leigh Kerr, the Director of Howard Street Academy and the 2024 Educator of the Year for the prestigious Fellowship for British Hairdressing. She played a crucial role in securing the successful bid for the group to embark on this unique, once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan. This opportunity followed a rigorous application process, which was funded by the Turing Scheme and ultimately approved.
The trip was not just an opportunity for the eight young apprentices selected to participate; it became a transformative experience for everyone involved. Japan’s meticulous techniques, respectful client rituals, and deep appreciation for the hairdressing profession left a lasting impact.
The experience resonated deeply with the salon group, as the company’s philosophy is based on the Japanese Values of ‘Kaizen’, which means continual improvement. The educational trip reinforced this philosophy by introducing new methods, such as precision cutting techniques, and innovative practices and rituals. Overall, it was a truly life-changing experience for all participants.
“It gave us a completely new perspective”, said Laura Leigh. “The calm, the focus, the discipline, it wasn’t all about technique. It was also very much about intent, and that is something we are incorporating back onto the salon floor here in Scotland.”
Customer Service: Elevating The Client Experience into a more Mindful & Relaxing Journey
Clients at Rainbow Room International are already enjoying the benefits of a subtle yet significant change: adopting a slower, more relaxed pace that fosters a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. This experience is a refreshing departure from the often busy and noisy salon environments commonly found in the UK.
Suzie McGill, director of Rainbow Room International Uddingston, noted: “What we saw in Japan was just the most extraordinary commitment to the overall client experience, it was attentiveness right down to the smallest detail. It was peaceful, tranquil, with details such as reclining backwash chairs designed to help the client fully relax, and no part of the process was rushed. We want our clients to feel that same sense of care.”
A key aspect of the experience is the Shiatsu head massage, which is a significant aspect of Japanese culture and has been practised for centuries. This ancient technique combines relaxation with therapeutic benefits. While Rainbow Room International was an early adopter of this practice in the UK, introducing it through Glasgow’s first day spa in 1983, nothing compares to experiencing the real thing at the source.
In Japan, the Shiatsu head massage is not hurried or merely an addition to a hair wash; instead, it is a key element of the salon experience. This treatment takes place in a dimly lit room where clients can fully recline, allowing both their bodies and minds to relax.
Training: A Slower Pace, with a Long-Game Approach and Focus on Long-Term Mastery
A key difference observed is that the Japanese model employs a slower, more structured approach to training. Stylists in Japan spend years mastering each step of their craft. It typically takes five years to become a fully qualified stylist, with the first two years focused solely on theory, and trainees do not even begin working with hair during this time. Instead, they learn the science behind hairdressing, the foundational skills, as well as health and safety protocols.
By comparison, the UK follows a more hands-on and fast-paced apprenticeship model. While both systems have their strengths, the Japanese approach emphasises mastering knowledge before technique, which in turn reinforces discipline and builds confidence among trainees. Although already award-winning for their education programme, Rainbow Room International plans to adopt this level of depth into their training.
“In the UK, there is a tendency to fast-track training,” explained Laura Leigh. “However, Japan highlighted that true mastery takes time. We are now focused on enhancing our training pathways to develop not only skills but also confidence and craftsmanship through a commitment to in-depth learning.”
Additionally, the profession in Japan is also passionate about specialist training. Laura Leigh added: “If you want to focus solely on colour, you can dedicate yourself entirely to that and become a colourist. This approach is something we will also consider implementing, allowing stylists to become true experts in the areas they are most passionate about.”
Cutting-Edge Precision: Innovative Techniques Where Less is More
In Japan, there is a strong emphasis on technique in hairstyling, rather than relying on products or heat tools. This focus on technique extends to cutting, where precision is paramount, and razor-sharp tools are used. Every detail, from using a single pin to secure and shape a hairstyle, is carefully considered and executed.
Riccardo Corvi, Director of Rainbow Room International Ayr, stated: “The team returned with a deeper appreciation for their craft and improved discipline in their technique.” He emphasised that achieving great results does not depend on using numerous products and heat tools, but rather on applying a disciplined technique. “It was all about working with the hair, with every movement and detail being carefully considered.”
This minimalist approach was showcased during a live hair-up demonstration, where the group observed the creation of an elegant and intricately structured hairstyle. This was accomplished without heat and with minimal product; instead, a skilled backcombing technique was utilised.
Looking ahead: From Global Inspiration to Local Impact
The trip to Japan has set a high standard for what is possible in global education and training. “The Japan experience really emphasised that, as hairstylists, we are always learning; it’s a continuous process. To truly grow, we must look beyond our own experiences. The trip taught us how to evolve while also celebrating what makes us unique.”
With a team full of new ideas, inspiration, and motivation, Rainbow Room International continues to demonstrate that when education takes the lead, innovation is sure to follow.