Formal to Senior
Care · Daily · Support
お髪を整えましょうか。軽くブラッシングしてもよろしいですか？ — Shall we tidy your hair? May I give it a gentle brush? (Care · Daily · Support, Formal to Senior, JLPT N4)
You
お髪を整えましょうか。軽くブラッシングしてもよろしいですか？
おかみをととのえましょうか。かるくぶらっしんぐしてもよろしいですか？
Shall we tidy your hair? May I give it a gentle brush?
Romaji: Okami wo totonoemashou ka. Karuku burasshingu shite mo yoroshii desu ka? / Reply Romaji: Ee, onegai shimasu.
Reply
ええ、お願いします。
ええ、おねがいします。
Yes, please.
Gesture & etiquette
Show the brush before touching their hair so there is no surprise. Stand or sit to their side and slightly behind — not directly behind where they cannot see you. Use gentle, slow strokes. Maintain light conversation or a comfortable silence. If they wince or tense, immediately lighten your touch and check in: 'Itai desu ka?' (Does it hurt?).
Hair care is deeply personal, and asking for permission before touching someone's hair is essential. Many Japanese seniors — especially women — take pride in their appearance. A well-groomed appearance preserves dignity and self-esteem. If the person has a preferred hairstyle, learning it and recreating it whenever possible is a meaningful act of respect.