Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'hairdresser' depends on the type of salon and the specific role. The most common term is 美容師 (beautician), but 理容師 (barber) is used for traditional barbershops. In casual conversation, people often refer to the place (美容院 or 理容院) rather than the person.
A professional who cuts, colors, and styles hair, typically in a salon that also offers makeup and nail services.
The standard term for a hairdresser or beautician in a Western-style salon. This is the most common and neutral word.
彼女は美容師です。
She is a hairdresser.
美容師になりたいです。
I want to become a hairdresser.
Loanword from English 'stylist'. Often used in salon contexts to refer to a hair stylist, sometimes implying a higher level of skill or a specific role within the salon.
あのスタイリストはとても人気があります。
That stylist is very popular.
More specific loanword for 'hair stylist'. Used in professional contexts or to distinguish from makeup artists.
ヘアスタイリストとして10年の経験があります。
I have 10 years of experience as a hair stylist.
A professional who cuts men's hair, shaves beards, and provides traditional grooming services.
The standard term for a barber. Used for professionals working in traditional barbershops (理容院).
父は理容師です。
My father is a barber.
理容師の免許を取るには試験が必要です。
You need to pass an exam to get a barber's license.
Colloquial term for a barbershop or barber. Often used in casual conversation, but can sound old-fashioned.
In English, 'hairdresser' can refer to the establishment. In Japanese, distinct words are used for the place.
When saying 'I'm going to the hairdresser,' use the place word: 美容院 (beauty salon) or 理容院 (barbershop). Using a person word like 美容師 would sound unnatural.
美容院に行ってきます。
I'm going to the hairdresser.
理容院で髪を切ってもらった。
I got my hair cut at the barber's.
美容師 (beautician) works in a 美容院 (beauty salon) and can provide a wide range of services including hair coloring, perms, and makeup. 理容師 (barber) works in a 理容院 (barbershop) and traditionally focuses on cutting men's hair and shaving. Legally, the licenses are different in Japan.
美容師はパーマやカラーができますが、理容師は髭剃りができます。
A beautician can do perms and coloring, while a barber can do shaving.
English speakers often say 'I'm going to the hairdresser' meaning the salon. In Japanese, you must use the place word (美容院/理容院), not the person word (美容師/理容師). Saying 美容師に行く is incorrect.
I went to the barber and got my hair cut.