Life & Work with Kaz Shimada of Pasadena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaz Shimada.

Hi Kaz, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Japan by two artists—my mother a ceramicist and my father a cloisonné enamel craftsman —so creativity has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up surrounded by texture, color, and craftsmanship. Whether I was drawing, painting, or shaping things out of clay, creating was my way of expressing who I was. That free-spirited creativity is still at the heart of everything I do.

My journey into hair began as a natural extension of that passion. I was always drawn to the emotional side of beauty—the way a haircut could help someone feel seen, lighter, or even more like themselves. Over time, I found my calling in razor cutting. There’s something intuitive, raw, and organic about the process—it allows me to sculpt hair in a way that feels effortless and deeply personal.

My clients are often who are craving more than just a style change—they come for a shift. Each haircut is a gentle ceremony: a chance to release old energy, reconnect with their natural beauty, and step into something new. It’s not just about hair—it’s about alignment, self-love, and embracing your authentic self.

For me, haircutting is both an art and a sacred exchange. I’m grateful every day to create space for people to feel powerful, beautiful, and truly themselves.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road definitely hasn’t been smooth, but every challenge has shaped who I am today. When I first came to the U.S., I didn’t speak the language well and didn’t know anyone—no family, no connections, just me and a deep desire to create a life I loved. I was raising my son as a single mom (now he is 18), trying to build a career while also being present and supportive for him. It was a constant balancing act.

For a long time, I thought I had to do everything on my own. I struggled with asking for help, and I carried this pressure to be perfect—in my work, as a mom, as a person. That mindset pushed me hard, but it also exhausted me. Over time, I am learning that strength also means softness. It means receiving, resting, and letting go of perfection.

These struggles gave me empathy, resilience, and a deeper connection to my clients. I understand what it means to carry a lot—and how powerful it is to take even a small moment to care for yourself. That’s a big part of why I do what I do.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a hair artist specializing in intuitive razor haircuts that honor each client’s natural texture, energy, and individuality. My work is rooted in the belief that beauty isn’t about covering up—it’s about revealing who you truly are. I’m known for creating effortless, low-maintenance styles that feel aligned with my clients’ lifestyle and spirit, especially for who are ready for something that feels both freeing and authentic.

What sets my work apart is the intention behind it. My approach is soulful and ceremonial—I see a haircut as a moment of emotional release, a way to let go of old energy and step into something new. Every session is more than just a haircut; it’s a space to be seen, heard, and supported.

I’m most proud of the way my clients leave feeling lighter—not just in their hair, but in their whole being. That kind of transformation, that sense of coming home to yourself, is why I do this work. It’s art, it’s connection, and it’s healing—all in one.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I believe luck has shown up in both beautiful and difficult ways in my life—and sometimes, what feels like bad luck ends up being your biggest teacher. Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, it felt like incredibly bad luck. I lost all my hair during chemotherapy, and it was a painful and humbling experience. But in hindsight, it became one of the greatest blessings of my life.

That season taught me to slow down, to be still, and to shift my perspective. It completely changed my priorities. When your life is on the line, the small worries fall away, and you begin to appreciate the tiniest, most ordinary things. I became deeply grateful just to be here, to breathe, to create.

Losing my hair taught me something powerful too—I realized I was still me without it. That experience helped me connect even more deeply with my clients. I understand how much our hair can carry—identity, history, emotion. And I hold that with care. It’s not just about style—it’s about healing, confidence, and self-love. That’s the kind of transformation I’m honored to offer now.

Pricing:

• Haircut starting at $260

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kazshimada.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kazdoeshair/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kazdoeshair?_t=ZT-8wJKIS4k19f&_r=1

Image Credits
Photo: Kai Shimada,
model: Caroline Foroutan