Fragrance house

uka

uka traces its origins to Barber Mukohara, a barbershop in Atsugi, Kanagawa, established in 1946. In 1978, founder Kazuyoshi Mukohara opened Excel Roppongi, a salon combining barbering and beauty services for all genders; in 1997, Kiho Watanabe joined as a manicurist, and Excel added a nail division while developing a total-beauty concept. In 2009, Watanabe took over the family business, renamed Excel uka, and launched the brand’s first products. The name refers to huka, or 羽化, the transformation of a pupa into a butterfly. Its inherited philosophy centers on genuine skill, sensitivity, and care, connecting salon expertise with self-care across hair, skin, and nails. Today, uka presents Japanese beauty through traditional craftsmanship and hospitality linked to modern daily rituals. A defining product line is uka nail oil, launched in 2009 as a portable roll-on with fragrances for different daily situations; by October 2024, it had sold approximately 1.3 million units and received 28 Best Cosmetics awards. uka launched its first perfume series on March 26, 2022, adapting four nail-oil scents for situations including relaxation, calming, attraction, and awareness.