How to set up a hairdresser profile on Websta in Japan

What goes on your Websta profile page

Your profile page works like a simple website. It should contain enough information that a customer can understand what you do and book or contact you. Start with a clear description of yourself as a hairdresser - say whether you specialize in cuts, color, perms, treatment, styling or a mix. List each service you offer as a separate item with a description and the price you charge. Add photos of your work: your salon space, tools, and finished cuts or color work on real clients (with their permission). Include your location and the hours you work.

A contact form and online booking function let customers reach you without you having to manage emails and phone calls alone. You decide whether to use Websta's booking system, a contact form for quote requests, or both. Japanese customers appreciate clear communication, so make sure your profile is complete before you publish it.

Sections to include on your profile

Start by filling in these sections on your profile page.

• About you - a short description of your experience, style and approach
• Services - each one listed separately with a name, description and price
• Photos - your salon, your work on clients' hair, your setup
• Location and hours - your address and when you are open
• Contact form or booking - so customers can reach you to ask questions or book time
• Languages - publish in Japanese and English if you serve both local and expat customers

How customers in Japan search for hairdressers on Websta

On Websta's marketplace for Japan, people search by service type and location. They can filter for hairdressers and see profiles in their area. The marketplace currently has listings in the hairdressers category across Japan, though the number of profiles varies by city and region.

Customers browse by what they want done - a cut, color, perm, treatment - and by where they want to go. If you publish a complete profile with clear photos and descriptions, you show up in those searches. Many people also post a task describing what they need, and providers like you can make offers. Your profile page itself can be shared directly with customers or friends.

Working as an independent hairdresser in Japan

If you work as a sole trader (self-employed), you should register with the local tax office and follow Japan's tax rules for self-employed people. This includes keeping records of income and expenses, and filing a tax return. If you rent a chair or booth in a salon instead of owning the salon, clarify your status with the salon owner - whether you are an employee or a contractor.

You will need a business bank account to receive customer payments. Websta uses Stripe to handle card payments, which are paid out to your own bank account. Check that your bank accepts Stripe transfers. You set the prices for your services yourself.

As a hairdresser, you should check with your prefectural government office about any specific rules for beauty work in your area, such as hygiene standards or licensing requirements. These can vary slightly between prefectures.

What to write in your first hour

You do not need to perfect your profile before you start. In the first hour, write a clear headline - for example, 'Hair cuts and color in central Tokyo' or 'Perm and treatment specialist'. Write two or three sentences about yourself: how many years you have worked, what you enjoy doing, and who you like to work with. List three to five services you offer most often, with names and prices. Add one or two photos if you have them - a clean photo of your salon and one example of your work.

Publish your profile as soon as you have these basics. You can add more photos and refine your descriptions later. The sooner you are visible in the marketplace, the sooner customers can find you.

Languages for your profile

Publish your profile in Japanese if that is your main language. If you live in an area with many expat customers, or if you welcome international clients, write descriptions in English as well. Keep English descriptions simple and clear. Many hairdressers in Japan work with both local and expat customers, and bilingual profiles help you reach both groups.

Photos that work for hairdressers

Good photos make a real difference. Include a clear photo of your salon or workspace so people know where to go. Take photos of finished cuts and color work on real clients - ask for permission first. Avoid heavy filters or edits that make the hair look different from what a client will actually get. Close-up photos of hair texture, color, and styling work well. If you offer special treatments like perms or smoothing, show the results.