We’re looking forward to introducing you to Yuta Matsumoto. Check out our conversation below.
Yuta, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
My days are pretty full but simple — and that’s exactly how I like them. I usually start the morning by walking my dogs and having breakfast before heading to the salon. Once I arrive, the pace picks up right away. I see about 15 to 20 clients a day, so there’s always a steady rhythm of cutting, coloring, and connecting with people.
Between appointments, I check in with my team, give feedback to assistants, and make sure everyone feels supported. I love seeing the salon energy — the conversations, the teamwork, the little moments when clients leave smiling.
After work, I go home, have dinner, and take my dogs for another walk to unwind. It’s a simple routine, but that balance keeps me grounded. My workdays are busy, but every day reminds me how grateful I am to do what I love surrounded by an incredible team and community.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m originally from Mie, Japan. I’ve been a hairstylist for over two decades, and in 2017 I opened my own salon — PINOK STUDIO — in Pasadena, California.
At PINOK STUDIO, we focus on personalized hair care with a touch of Japanese hospitality. Our specialty is working with coarse and thick hair types, combining modern techniques with the precision and attention to detail I learned during my years of training in Tokyo. We’re also known for our Japanese Head Spa — a relaxing and rejuvenating scalp treatment that promotes both hair health and peace of mind.
What makes PINOK STUDIO special is our strong sense of teamwork and education. We’ve built a space where stylists can grow together, share knowledge, and continue to refine their craft. My goal has always been to create not just a salon, but a community — a place where both stylists and clients feel supported, inspired, and confident.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
The people who have taught me the most are my clients. Every day, they remind me why I chose this profession. My goal is always to help them feel confident, beautiful, and like their true selves — but in doing so, they’ve also taught me about empathy, patience, and connection.
Hairstyling is deeply personal. It’s not just about technique — it’s about emotion. Each person has a unique story, a different hair texture, bone structure, and personal sense of style. It’s impossible to satisfy every client perfectly, but that challenge is what keeps me learning.
Every haircut and conversation teaches me something new — not just about hair, but about people. My clients inspire me to keep improving, to listen more deeply, and to approach my craft with both skill and heart.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
When I was younger, I was overconfident and often let that get the better of me, sometimes causing trouble for the people around me. If I could say one thing to my younger self, it would be this: be humble, appreciate your family and those who support you, and never take kindness for granted.
And I would also remind my current self — never forget that lesson.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the hair industry is that talent alone is enough. Many people believe that if you’re a great hairstylist, success will naturally follow — but that’s not true. Skill is important, but so are communication, consistency, professionalism, and teamwork. Without those, even the most talented stylist can struggle to build a stable career.
I’ve learned that success in this industry isn’t just about being the best — it’s about showing up every day, staying humble, learning from others, and building genuine connections with both clients and coworkers. The beauty industry can be tough, but when you focus on growth and kindness, it becomes a really rewarding journey.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If immortality were real, what would you build?
If I could live forever, I’d dedicate my time to eliminating baldness and gray hair once and for all. Imagine a world where no one ever has to worry about hair loss — that would be paradise for hairstylists and clients alike!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pinokstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinokstudio
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pinok-studio-by-matsumoto-pasadena
