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Curly Hair

DevaCut vs Rezo Cut: Understanding Curly Cutting Techniques

What's the difference between these popular curly hair cutting methods? Find out which technique suits your curl pattern and lifestyle.

By Debbie··4 min read
Stylist cutting curly hair using specialised dry-cutting technique

If you've been researching curly hair cuts, you've probably come across two terms that keep popping up: DevaCut and Rezo Cut. Both are celebrated in the curly community, but understanding the difference can feel like learning a new language.

Let's break it down in plain English.

What Is a DevaCut?

The DevaCut was developed by Lorraine Massey, founder of DevaChan salon in New York and author of "Curly Girl: The Handbook." It's a curl-by-curl cutting technique performed on dry hair.

The key principles:

  • Dry cutting — Your curls are cut in their natural state, not wet
  • Curl-by-curl approach — Each curl is treated individually
  • Shape-focused — The goal is to create a rounded, balanced shape
  • Spring factor considered — Your stylist accounts for how much each curl will bounce up
DevaCuts tend to create a fuller, rounder silhouette. The technique removes weight strategically to allow curls to spring up and out.

What Is a Rezo Cut?

The Rezo Cut was created by Nubia Suarez, a Brazilian curl specialist. Like the DevaCut, it's performed on dry hair, but the approach and end result differ.

Key characteristics:

  • Dry cutting — Also done on natural, dry curls
  • Curl elongation — The technique is designed to reduce bulk while maintaining length
  • Angle cutting — Uses specific angles to create movement without losing inches
  • Frizz reduction — The cutting angles are meant to minimise frizz
Rezo Cuts often result in a more elongated, cascading look. If you want length but struggle with bulk and undefined ends, this technique might appeal to you.

The Key Differences

| Aspect | DevaCut | Rezo Cut | |--------|---------|----------| | Shape | Rounder, fuller | More elongated | | Volume | Emphasises volume | Controls volume | | Best for | Those wanting bounce | Those wanting length | | Layering | Strategic layers throughout | Layers that cascade |

Which One Is Right for You?

Consider DevaCut if you:

  • Want maximum volume and bounce
  • Have fine curls that need lift
  • Love a rounded, full shape
  • Have curls that tend to fall flat at the crown

Consider Rezo Cut if you:

  • Want to maintain length
  • Struggle with too much bulk
  • Prefer a more elongated look
  • Have thick, dense curls that overwhelm your features

The Truth About Labels

Here's what I tell every client: the name of the cut matters less than the skill of your stylist and their understanding of YOUR specific curls.

A great curl specialist will:

  • Assess your unique curl pattern (you might have multiple patterns!)
  • Consider your face shape
  • Ask about your lifestyle and styling routine
  • Recommend what will actually work for you—even if it's a hybrid approach
At Applebom, we're trained in both techniques and often use elements of each depending on what your curls need. Sometimes the crown needs a DevaCut approach while the ends need Rezo techniques.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Whether you book a DevaCut or Rezo Cut with us, here's what happens:

1. Consultation — We talk about your curl goals, frustrations, and daily routine 2. Assessment — We examine your curl pattern, density, and current shape 3. Dry cut — Your curls are cut in their natural state 4. Styling — We style your hair so you can see the final result 5. Education — We show you how to recreate the look at home

No more leaving the salon with perfect curls only to never achieve that look again. We want you to love your hair every day, not just on salon day.

The Bottom Line

Both DevaCut and Rezo Cut are valid, effective techniques for curly hair. The "best" one is whichever creates the shape and style YOU want, performed by someone who truly understands curly hair.

If you're not sure which technique is right for you, that's exactly what consultations are for. Let's look at your curls together and create a plan.

Your curls deserve someone who speaks their language.

Written by Debbie

Got questions about your hair? Book a consultation and let's chat about what's possible for you.