Shu Uemura Art of Hair, an exclusive luxury division of L'Oreal, launched two new products and introduced everyone to their fabulously talented Creative Director, Ryoji Imaizumi, at an explosively creative Hairshow. With the backdrop of two captivating drummers, models displayed the works of a few stylists. One hairstyle was an elaborate fishnet of blonde hair floating past the hips of one model, while another was a never-before-seen (at least by me) extreme mohawk that grazed the mid-back and fluffed out in a fabulous juxtapose of slicked back and fluffed-out hair.

After this presentation, three dancers in nothing but gold paint and metallic shorts mesmerized the audience with an interpretive dance bringing to mind insects emerging from cocoons. Amazing! After this, a few stylists took turns creating their magic live on the stage. Then there was the highlight of the evening, Ryoji himself, making it ridiculously obvious why he's an internationally renowned and desired stylist, who has already styled Madonna and John Galliano, to name a few.

While I was wondering what he could possibly do that could top what the other stylists already did with the limitations of the stage, wind started blowing the hair of the model (who I would bet, but don't quote me on it, was wearing the metallic vest designed by the Blonds and worn by Rihanna at the 2008 American Music Awards). Ryoji then proceeds to cut her flowing black locks with a pair of scissors and chopsticks attached to each finger, all with the wind whipping through it!! A-mazing! After her cut, Ryoji then styles her hair with his chop-sticked hand and a pair of chop sticks in his free hand. It is as jaw-dropping as it sounds.

When I got the chance to chat with the 34-yr-old Ryoji, he told me that he's been styling hair for over a decade. Even though he is a stylist, his creative energy is evident in all things Ryoji, including the thick silver layered chain he wore that he admitted to making himself. Often inspired by cartoons and superheroes, he discovered the chopsticks method quite by accident and loves its ability to go right to the root and come out without interfering with the style. Inspired by all things natural, Ryoji helped introduce the two new products: a Frame Wax and the Tasai Cream.

Bamboo is known for its flexibility and this extends to the Frame Wax, which promises structured definition with softness. For only $30, it's humidity resistant and really easy to wash off. The team at Shu Uemura especially loves this product because it leaves hair looking natural while maintaining the style.

Described as the product to have if one is stranded on a deserted island (and must maintain fabulosity, of course), the Tasai Cream boasts versatility through all hair types and ingredients such as black sugar, sea fennel extract and deep sea water. This one also provides a long-lasting hold and is also reasonably priced at $30.

Shu Uemura is available in select salons. 

Written by Tabitha