Yukiko’s Curly Hair Journey
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“People are often surprised when they ask me, 'How did you get into curly hair?' After all, I’m half Japanese, and my own hair is coarse, thick, and would lay relatively straight if left alone. But that’s exactly why this story matters.
In February 2012, I went to a gold-buying party at a friend’s house and met a woman with a big, frizzy bun piled on top of her head. She told me she used to have curly hair as a child, but now it only ever looked frizzy. When she asked if I knew what to do with it, I had to admit—I didn’t. As a stylist, I’ve always believed in helping people feel confident in their natural beauty. So I promised her I’d learn everything I could and find an answer. That same weekend, I attended a small hair show in Tacoma where DevaCurl was presenting. Unlike the other brands showcasing keratin straightening systems, DevaCurl was demonstrating hydration techniques that transformed frizz into defined, healthy curls—right before my eyes. I stayed at their booth the entire day, absorbing every tip, method, and philosophy I could. |
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I went home and immediately dove into online research, and my passion for curl care exploded. Soon after, I discovered a forum post by Scott Musgrave about a new group called Curly Hair Artistry. I knew I had to be part of it. When I reached out, Scott asked about my training. I proudly listed some big-name classes I had taken—but he wasn’t impressed. He told me to reach back out after I had some actual curly hair education under my belt.
At first, I was crushed—but I wasn’t deterred. I started planning my trip to DevaCurl training in New York. Then, a week later, I got another message from Scott: ‘You’ve been on my heart. I’ll let you into the group based on your passion alone. You’ll learn a lot.’ I’m so grateful he gave me that chance.
Over time, I noticed that as I followed curl-friendly methods and used cleaner products, my own hair began to change. The more I embraced my natural texture, the more my hidden waves began to show. Turns out, I’ve been a wavy girl in a curly world all along.
Today, I feel honored to train other stylists in these curl-specific practices and to continue growing OlyCurl as a welcoming space for curlies of all kinds across Washington State.”
-Yukiko T.
At first, I was crushed—but I wasn’t deterred. I started planning my trip to DevaCurl training in New York. Then, a week later, I got another message from Scott: ‘You’ve been on my heart. I’ll let you into the group based on your passion alone. You’ll learn a lot.’ I’m so grateful he gave me that chance.
Over time, I noticed that as I followed curl-friendly methods and used cleaner products, my own hair began to change. The more I embraced my natural texture, the more my hidden waves began to show. Turns out, I’ve been a wavy girl in a curly world all along.
Today, I feel honored to train other stylists in these curl-specific practices and to continue growing OlyCurl as a welcoming space for curlies of all kinds across Washington State.”
-Yukiko T.
Initial haircut here was exactly what my curls and I wanted- volume, layers and life. After the big cut, I usually always overlook maintenance trims, but 12 weeks after the cut I did the trim and, what a difference getting rid of those dead ends makes on your curls! The styling techniques and products OlyCurl shares with clients have re-invigorated my curl definition -- minimizing frizz and “I’ll just put it in a bun” days. They also know how to hi- and low-light very well! Overall OlyCurl hits it out of the park for me. One stop shop for everything. If you have curls I highly recommend you trusting your curls to these experts. 100% worth it every time! - Chelsea
The OlyCurl Story
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At the heart of OlyCurl is Yukiko, a dedicated stylist with over 20 years in the beauty industry. Throughout her career, she has consistently sought out advanced training to expand her expertise—from specialized color techniques to hair extensions. But mastering the art of curly hair has become her greatest passion and calling.
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Yukiko is a proud member of Curly Hair Artistry (CHA), an elite international network of curly hair specialists. In October 2013, she attended her first CHA symposium in Atlanta, Georgia, where she joined 30 curl-focused professionals from around the world for hands-on instruction and intensive education. Since then, she’s returned for additional symposia, completed Raw Hair Organics training, and brought a wealth of new techniques back home to Olympia.
Her dedication didn’t stop there. Yukiko became a Deva-Inspired Stylist after completing both a two-day course and a one-day advanced class through DevaCurl. In 2021, she earned certification in Head Shape Matters—a precision cutting method that considers the individual’s head shape, growth patterns, and cowlicks to create truly customized cuts.
These combined experiences have led Yukiko to develop the signature “OlyCurl Method,” offering a one-of-a-kind cutting and styling experience for each unique curl pattern. That same year, OlyCurl was honored with the “Best Turn-Around Award” from Strategies, a leading coaching company for team-based salon businesses. The salon was also nominated for the 2022 Staff Retention Award—recognition that reflects the passion, care, and community at the core of the OlyCurl mission.
Her dedication didn’t stop there. Yukiko became a Deva-Inspired Stylist after completing both a two-day course and a one-day advanced class through DevaCurl. In 2021, she earned certification in Head Shape Matters—a precision cutting method that considers the individual’s head shape, growth patterns, and cowlicks to create truly customized cuts.
These combined experiences have led Yukiko to develop the signature “OlyCurl Method,” offering a one-of-a-kind cutting and styling experience for each unique curl pattern. That same year, OlyCurl was honored with the “Best Turn-Around Award” from Strategies, a leading coaching company for team-based salon businesses. The salon was also nominated for the 2022 Staff Retention Award—recognition that reflects the passion, care, and community at the core of the OlyCurl mission.
Amazing!! Thank you, Yukiko, for taking such good care of my hair and for helping me relax. It was a treat. - Jessica G.