With the addition of cleansing and hair wax, the line now has 12 items in total

──Could you tell us about the key points of this renewal?

The packaging and the number of items have changed significantly. The packaging has moved away from its previous cute aesthetic to a simple, unisex design. With the addition of "Hair Cleansing Clay" and "Hair Wax," the lineup now comprises 12 items in total. As for the contents, while the previous products were already satisfactory, we have further evolved them with this renewal, enhancing them with richer ingredients and formulations.





I believe the reason is, quite frankly, the "results." When people experience a head spa, their hair roots visibly become healthier, and this tangible result is what earns their approval. It truly made me realize the importance of hair care series having a real impact. Therefore, we took this opportunity to boldly change the design so that it would appeal not only to women but also to men.

All the Photos on the Packaging are "Meaningful Pictures"

──We heard that the photos on the packaging are landscapes from your travels, and were taken by your husband, a professional photographer (Mr. Koji Sato)...

Yes, that's correct. During a meeting with the designer, we discussed how it would be nice to incorporate our experiences into something modern, and that's when it was suggested. As I was leaving, the designer saw the photos displayed in the salon and asked, "Who took these?" When I replied, "My husband," they said, "That's great! Let's include these!" So, we carefully selected and decorated the packaging with these "meaningful pictures." We've used a total of nine shots, including from the Himalayas, Bhutan, and the Big Island of Hawaii. A notable one is the photo from Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, used for the hair wax. Izumo Taisha is known as the deity of matchmaking, so how about "a wax that connects destinies" (laughs).





Every trip brings its own unique lessons. We generally enjoy visiting places where we can experience a simulated life, and sometimes we visit countries with challenging environments. However, the more difficult the journey, the more energized we feel, allowing us to reaffirm our current happiness and become more positive. I hope that this energy is conveyed to everyone through these photographs.

The core concept lies in "Hybrid"

──The "Epicurean" series is a "Natural Product" using naturally derived plant ingredients. Has that direction remained unchanged?

Of course! However, we don't believe that everything organic is inherently good. The core concept, in our view, lies in "hybrid." For example,BulgariIf everyone rushed to Bulgaria just because of the excellent roses that grow there and harvested them all, the Bulgarian roses would eventually disappear.

So, what do we do?──We sow seeds even before the soil for the next bloom is ready, and we have to rush the blooming process, which leads to reliance on pesticides. It's a strange situation, isn't it? Therefore, we decided to stop such falsehoods. We take only the seeds and use English Damask Roses grown in Japanese soil. In other words, it's a hybrid approach. Instead of burdening or "occupying" one place, we utilize the best of each country. I believe this concept is wonderful, and this kind of flow is the surest path to the world becoming one. A world where we can all share and say, "Good things are good!"





Actually, that's also the reason behind this renewal. The previous bottles were made from biomass plastic derived from corn. This was because, at the time, it was considered the best choice from a sustainability perspective. However, corn is now in high demand globally as biofuel. Naturally, production cannot keep up. This then leads to the issue of pesticides. I saw footage of the extensive pesticide spraying in the US, with helicopters flying over and dousing the crops. Knowing this reality, we concluded, "Can we really continue making bottles from corn?" The decision was: "Let's change the bottles first." That was the primary motivation.

We actually saw video footage of the immense pesticide application. Helicopters flying over American skies, spraying pesticides to cultivate crops. Knowing this situation, we came to the conclusion, "Is it still okay to make bottles from corn?" "Let's change the bottles first." That was the biggest driving force.

For the new bottles, we chose standard plastic because it's the most durable material. In fact, there had been several reported cases of corn-based bottles cracking in environments with high air pressure, such as inside airplanes, and we were already considering countermeasures. It's not enough to just be sustainable; we need to think more smartly. As a result of this mature decision-making, we decided to use sturdy plastic for the exterior so that everyone can use it with peace of mind.

I like the interpretation of "Each person's luxury" the most.

──Could you please explain the meaning of "Epicurean" again?

It's often used to mean "hedonist" or "epicurean," but I personally prefer the interpretation of "each person's luxury." What constitutes "satisfaction" differs for each individual, and each person's "satisfaction" is their "luxury."──If you aim for what makes you satisfied, you can probably smile at the moment of death, which is the ultimate luxury. I want to be healthy and beautiful until the very end.





Furthermore, health and beauty aren't just joys for the individual; they bring happiness to those around them as well. Some people might find it bothersome to put in effort, but even they will feel their mood change once they become beautiful. For example, a vibrant and cheerful "downtown mom" or "country aunt" is wonderful just as they are, but a little bit of style can elevate their spirits and bring out a beautiful smile. Seeing someone happy about becoming beautiful brings a genuine smile to my face too.

The Sustainable Alternative to Corn: "Rice Flour"

──What are the two new items that have been added?

First, let's talk about the hair wax. Previously, the main ingredient in hair wax was talc. However, there were concerns about its use for children. Of course, talc varies in quality, and baby powder is also made from talc. So, if we could use high-quality talc, there would be no problem. But when it comes to mass production, that's quite difficult, so we've been searching for an alternative.





So, how can rice flour be utilized? The manufacturer we commissioned for this project was also making hair wax with rice flour for the first time, and we went through a lot of trial and error. However, we never compromised. As a result, we've created a highly effective hair wax that uses rice flour and natural minerals to maintain style with a matte finish. It took two years to complete, but it was worth it. We achieved something truly excellent through our hard work. It's a product I'm very proud of. I think it will be particularly loved by those with short or medium-length permed hair (laughs).

──We're eagerly awaiting the release (April 5th). So, what about the "Hair Cleansing Clay"?





Actually, since 3.11, I've learned a lot, and I've been focusing on the "power to remove unnecessary things" of silica and antigorite. Natural mineral components are even broken down into water after removal, making it truly clean. That's why I absolutely wanted to include them. On the other hand, we also considered the importance of adhesion. That's where we adopted "rice flour." By adding rice flour, which contains natural oils, together with silica and clay, we can strongly adsorb unnecessary waste without stripping the skin of its natural oils. In other words, it has two functions: "mineral components that are removed" and "organic oils that remain." This is the concept behind the creation of this cleansing clay.





──Could you tell us how to use it effectively?

It's simple. Apply it radially to dry scalp, then gently massage it into the entire scalp. After that, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. We recommend leaving it on for about 5 minutes, but since we don't use any harsh ingredients, it's fine to leave it on longer. I often leave it on for 20-30 minutes while watching TV (laughs).

Once a week is sufficient for effective results. If you don't perm or color your hair, once every 10 days might be enough. Once you try it, you'll surely understand that your scalp becomes healthier compared to just using shampoo. I want people to realize that "the ends of the hair and the scalp have different personalities."

Proposing Ways to Enjoy Hairstyles

──The ends and scalp have different personalities. Indeed, the scalp is something to be nurtured, while hair is considered dead cells.

And hair, along with nails, is one of the few parts of the body where we can play and create. Above all, since it's located directly above and to the sides of our face, it's the best part for self-expression. I believe that "simple is best" when it comes to hair. However, simplicity can sometimes become boring, and indeed, many people give off that impression.




Through this product development, I've realized that I am, after all, a hairdresser. I feel like I'm now creating the things I wished I had back in my salon work days. Ultimately, the first people I need to please are hairdressers. Creating products that make hairdressers think, "My clients will surely be happy with this!" is a high hurdle, but it's also incredibly enjoyable and rewarding.

──We're looking forward to it. Lastly, could you give us a message?

I want many people to use it. Both men and women. I especially want those living in rural areas, who can't easily visit a salon, to try it. I want to convey this to a wide range of people. We plan to actively hold events this year as well, so please look forward to them.

──Thank you very much.

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www.twiggy.co.jp