What’s a Rezo Cut? 101 Guide + Before & After Photos

Rezo cut before and after makeover on a woman with curly hair

When I started my Curly Girl journey, I felt overwhelmed by all the haircutting and styling options. From Shoulder Cuts to Fountain Cuts to Diamatrix Cuts, there was just so much to consider. It was like choosing my wedding dress all over again, but with higher stakes!

But then I saw “before and after” photos of the Rezo Cut. I made my decision near-instantly:  “I had to have that cut! It would be a crime to my curls if I didn’t.”

5 years later, I’m still rocking the Rezo Cut. I’ve experimented and tried countless cuts throughout the years, but none seemed to work as well for me as the Rezo method. It’s hands-down my favorite curly cutting style—and it could be yours, too!

But don’t just take my word for it. I asked Victoria Pineiro, hairstylist at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in Carrollwood- Tampa, FL if the Rezo cut really is flattering on all curl types.

She told me, “The Rezo Cut is suitable for most to all lengths. Its principles are based on body and volume while creating balance. That can play its part in creating bobs, pixies or cascading lengths.

Now, curly, coily all qualify. However, if you have wavy and/or fine densities then this method might not benefit the hair.”

Ready to find out more about the benefits of this technique and whether it is a fit for you?

In this article, you’ll learn:

What is the “Rezo Cut” Technique?

The Rezo Cut, spelled  RëZO cut, is a unique cutting technique. It emphasizes the formation, and volume of curly hair without reducing its length.

Inspired by textured culture, it was created by master stylist and curl expert Nubia Suarez. Her goal was to breathe new life and personality into curls.

When done correctly, this haircut elevates your curls and coils from the root area. This allows them to move about freely without the need for much styling.

Unlike other haircut techniques, the Rezo Cut is performed on dry hair. That’s when your true curl pattern is most visible. This lets your stylist know how long your hair actually is when it’s in its natural, dry state. They won’t have to worry about cutting too much off.

The Rezo Cut is perfect for curly-, coily-, and sometimes  wavy-haired individuals that posses width in their hair.

How The Rezo Cut Works

The Rezo Cut is dry cutting technique. Dry cutting is the process of cutting hair while it’s dry, allowing your hairstylist to see your natural curl pattern and length more accurately.

While dry, your hair is “shaped” to create uniform curls around the head. The locks are sectioned in V’s and cut into circles and triangles to get a balanced, rounded shape. Because of this, the cut looks great even when your hair is straightened.

The Rezo Cut doesn’t require much maintenance. You won’t have to visit your stylist more than once in three to six months, and even then it’s just for light trims to reshape.

Who is The Rezo Cut For?

Who is the rezo cut is for
Instagram @nubiarezo

The Rezo Cut works with almost all hair types and textures, including curly, and coily and sometimes wavy, curl types. It’s ideal for ladies looking to add more volume and shape to their natural hair.

The Rezo Cut produces the best results on Type 3 curls because it can add a lot of volume to your hair. Plus, it’s much easier to build on than wavy and coily hair.

How Is the Rezo Cut Different From the DevaCut?

Whenever the Rezo Cut is mentioned, the DevaCut comes up too. Both cutting techniques have a lot in common! The biggest similarity is that they both are done on dry hair and give personality to curls.

However, there are several distinct differences between the 2—differences that might make you pick one over the other.

Difference of Rezo cut and Deva cut

The DevaCut was invented by Lorraine Massey. She also created the tried-and-true Curly Girl Method. The Curly Girl Method encourages natural and healthy styling, so it isn’t a surprise that the DevaCut follows the same route. Yet, the method has since been dated and services as a base of learning.

This type of cut aims to make curls look their best without the need for styling products. As such, it works best for those who usually wear their curls in their natural state.

The DevaCut focuses on framing the face of the wearer, so the cut doesn’t follow a specific pattern or style. In fact, most stylists cut hair on a curl-by-curl basis.

Because of this, the cutting technique only looks good on curly hair. When straightened, your hair may appear uneven.

On the other hand, the Rezo Cut focuses on maintaining an even balance around the head. It uses parting and rounding techniques to frame the face and add movement and volume to the curls. Even if you choose to straighten your hair some days, the cut will look layered.

Should You Get a Rezo Cut? 4 Things to Consider

The Rezo Cut is generally a “safe” cut for curly-haired people, especially if you’re looking to add more volume to their silhouette. Still, there are several factors to consider before getting this cut.

Consider Your Curl Type

Different types of curly hair

The Rezo Cut works on non-straight hair of all types, but it looks best on ladies with Type2-4 curls as it adds the most volume.

However, it also looks wonderful with Type 2B and Type 2C wavy hair. The cut won’t add as much volume as curls with a full body, but it’ll add just enough dimension to create sexy, bouncy finish.

Set Realistic Expectations

Someone scrunching their damp and wavy hair

It’s true, that the Rezo Cut adds volume and definition to your curls. But you still need to put in a bit of work to make the cut look its best. It’s not a miracle cut that relieves you of all your curly-girl woes.

Styling is what makes or breaks the Rezo Cut. Without the right styling technique, you won’t get the volume you signed up for.

Luckily, it doesn’t take much effort to make this haircut pop.

When styling your Rezo Cut hair, you have to do it while it’s soaking wet. To start, apply a good amount of leave-in conditioner to the ends of your hair. Then, apply mousse or gel in small sections to allow the product to fully immerse into your curls. Use a styling brush to maximize curl definition, making sure to rewet each section as needed.

Once your hair is coated with the right amount of product, it’s time to scrunch. With your hair flipped over or working side to side, scrunch your hair using your hands or a microfiber towel. Avoid using a cotton t-shirt and it will absorb too much of the product.

Diffusing isn’t necessary but is recommended for fuller, more volumized hair. If you’ve got time on your hands, air drying works just as well. Just make sure to keep your hands off your curls while they dry.

If you follow this styling method, the Rezo Cut will emphasize your curls even more. It’ll give you defined, voluminous curls that look to die for. It takes a bit of effort to get there, but it’s worth it in my opinion!

The Maintenance of a Rezo Cut

Rezo cut maintenance
Instagram @curlsbyashly

As mentioned earlier, the Rezo Cut doesn’t really require much maintenance. A trim once every 3 to 6 months is more than enough to keep the cut looking great.

The amount of time you should go between trims depends on your hair type and texture.

If you’ve got loose, wavy curls, you should visit a professional for maintenance every 3 months or so.

For thick, tight curls, you can wait as long as 6 months or more for trimming appointments.

If you like how your hair looks as it’s growing out, feel free to take longer between maintenance sessions while still pre booking as needed.

The Cost of a Rezo Cut

The cost of a rezo cut
@utopiarezosalon

The Rezo Cut costs anywhere between $90 to $250+. Some hair salons can do it for less, but you might not get the quality you’re looking for.

If you want to get the best cut for your curly hair, go to a salon or stylist that specializes in the Rezo Cut.

To give you an idea of pricing, you can get a Rezo Cut for about $100 to $150 at the Utopia Salon and Day Spa. This location is Nubia’s hair salon, the creator of the Rezo cut. If you want a session with the curly hair guru herself, expect to pay around $200+.

The Rezo Cut: Before and After

The Rezo Cut is a pretty big deal in the curly girl community, and it’s not difficult to see why. If you’re still not convinced, check out these amazing before and after photos:

Rezo cut which accentuates the cheekbones and frames the face.

Rezo Cut on Type 2B waves.

Playfully voluminous curls that can take on any weather.

Want to highlight your colored tips? The Rezo Cut can do that, too.

Rezo Cut and ombre: a match made in heaven.

Rezo Cut used as a tool to contour the face shape.

Rezo Cut proves that you don’t need to have thick hair to add amazing volume to your curls.

Rezo Cut on Type 3C hair leaves curls bouncy and balanced.

RëzoLites with woven highlights and balayage for a seamless grow out.

Rezo lites with woven highlights and balayage
Instagram @hairbyreema

Less frizziness, more volume: the magic of the Rezo Cut.

3 Best Products to Pair with a Rezo Cut

To keep your cut looking the best, I highly recommend the styling products within her brand. However, here is a list of others that may work as well.

1.    Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo

The Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo is a great solution for moisture-hungry curly hair. It cleanses and rehydrates from within to keep your curls looking fresh and healthy.

This rich shampoo is infused with nutrients and botanicals. Regular use will help eliminate dryness and frizz, maintain the integrity of your curls, and can even reduce hair fall.

2.    Davines LOVE Curl Conditioner

The Davines LOVE Curl Conditioner is a moisturizing daily conditioner that not only enhances your curls, but also keeps them healthy and shiny.

With its ultra-nourishing formula, it untangles even the unruliest of waves and curls. Best of all, this conditioner adds definition while fighting frizz.

These qualities help define the look of your Rezo Cut.

3.    Davines LOVE Curl Mask

Enriched with moisturizing milk and vitamins, the Davines LOVE Curl Mask provides deep hydration and softness for curly hair.

It adds great elasticity and bounciness to your curls, which is further emphasized with the Rezo Cut. Using this mask once or twice a month– especially when the seasons change– can keep your cut looking sharp year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can wavy hair get a Rezo Cut?

Absolutely! Non-straight hair of all types can get a Rezo Cut. However, it works best with Type 3 waves and up. It won’t add a lot of volume to Type 2A waves because the curls aren’t as defined. Yet, if the density is medium to full it can still provide movement.

Can I give myself a Rezo Cut at home?

According to Victoria, “The most that should be done at home is to trim the ends of your hair. When you get into layering, there is the act of over direction that may not translate as seamless as a professional doing it instead.”

This can cause holes or shelves that can only be remedied, by cutting it evenly, and that often means shorter than intended.”

Is the Rezo Cut worth it?

If you have curly hair, getting a Rezo Cut is 100% worth it. It takes a bit of maintenance to keep it looking its best, but the results are undeniable: it adds amazing volume and bounce to curls.

How long does a Rezo Cut take?

The Rezo Cut takes about as long as any other curly girl cut: 1-2 hours including post-styling. The thicker your hair, the longer the cut will take.

Who invented the Rezo Cut?

The Rezo Cut was invented by curl expert Nubia Suarez in 2011. She owns the Rëzo Salon and the Utopia Salon & DaySpa, which both specialize in the Rezo Cut.

Can you straighten a Rezo Cut?

Yes, you can straighten a Rezo Cut. The cut will have a uniform, V-shaped appearance when straightened.

How much is a Rezo Cut?

On average, a Rezo Cut costs between $90 to $200, depending on the salon you go to. Nubia’s salon charges around $100 to $200+ for a Rezo Cut.



Posted In: Ask A Stylist