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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··5 min read
Close-up of freshly dry-cut curly hair showing defined, healthy curl shape and clean ends, no face visible

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.

I’m Debbie, and at Applebom in Toowoomba I’m trained in both techniques. Let’s break them down in plain English so you can work out which one suits your curls.

What Is a DevaCut?

A DevaCut is a curl-by-curl cutting technique performed on dry hair. It was developed by Lorraine Massey, founder of the DevaChan salon in New York and author of “Curly Girl: The Handbook.” The key principles are:

●     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 a rounded, balanced shape

●     Spring factor considered — your stylist accounts for how much each curl bounces up

DevaCuts tend to create a fuller, rounder silhouette. The technique removes weight strategically to let curls spring up and out.

What Is a Rezo Cut?

A Rezo Cut is also a dry-cutting technique, created by Brazilian curl specialist Nubia Suarez, but the approach and the end result differ. Its key characteristics are:

●     Dry cutting — also done on natural, dry curls

●     Curl elongation — 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.

What’s the Difference Between a DevaCut and a Rezo Cut?

In short, a DevaCut builds a rounder, fuller shape with volume, while a Rezo Cut controls bulk and keeps length. Comparing the two across the things that matter most:

●     Shape: a DevaCut is rounder and fuller, a Rezo Cut is more elongated

●     Volume: a DevaCut emphasises volume, a Rezo Cut controls it

●     Best for: a DevaCut suits those wanting bounce, a Rezo Cut those wanting length

●     Layering: a DevaCut uses strategic layers throughout, a Rezo Cut uses layers that cascade

Which Curly Cut Is Right for You?

Consider a 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 a 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 several)

●     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 wants a DevaCut approach while the ends want Rezo techniques.

What Happens at Your Curly Cut Appointment?

Whether you book a DevaCut or a Rezo Cut with us, here’s what to expect:

●     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.

DevaCut vs Rezo Cut FAQs

Is a DevaCut or Rezo Cut better for volume?

A DevaCut. It removes weight strategically so curls spring up and out, creating a fuller, rounder shape. A Rezo Cut is better if you want to keep length and control bulk.

Are both cuts done on dry hair?

Yes. Both the DevaCut and the Rezo Cut are dry-cutting techniques, so your stylist can see exactly how each curl falls before cutting.

Which curly cut keeps the most length?

The Rezo Cut. It’s designed to reduce bulk while maintaining length, using angled cutting to create movement without losing inches.

Can you combine a DevaCut and a Rezo Cut?

Yes. A skilled curl specialist will often blend elements of both, for example a DevaCut approach at the crown and Rezo techniques through the ends.

The Bottom Line

Both the DevaCut and the 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 curls. If you’re not sure which is right for you, that’s exactly what a consultation is for.

Book a curly hair consultation in Toowoomba, and let’s look at your curls together. 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.