Master stylist and curl expert Nubia Suarez is an irrefutable authority on beauty. As a top-notch educator and curl specialist, she is passionate about imparting her curly hair knowledge to her clients and exhibiting beauty in all hair types– so much so that she opened Utopia Salon & Day Spa in Westfield, New Jersey. During this interview, she revealed some curly and oily hair styling tips, her current favorite curly girl products, and the tea on her famous Rëzo Cut!
Image Source: @nubiarezo
Her Inspiration
Nubia comes from supportive parents who encouraged her to pursue her dreams, and because of her enthusiasm for hair and beauty, a salon and spa seemed like a natural step in realizing her dream. When asked about her reason for creating Utopia, she also shared that the lack of representation of some hair types drove her.
“I’ve always loved to fight for divides and human rights. It hasn’t always been easy for women with tight curly textures.” Nubia has studied many different hair textures and techniques from around the world. She is particularly fond of the communal aspect of hair care in many African cultures where…even men would be involved in the process.”
As a Deva and Ouidad certified educator, she has had the opportunity to travel the world and teach and learn about the latest hairstyling techniques.
What is a Rëzo cut and How is it Different from a DevaCut?
The Rëzo Cut is Nubia’s creation taking the curly world by storm– and it’s compatible with every hair texture. The most prominent difference between a DevaCut and a Rëzo Cut is that “The DevaCut focuses on framing your face, while the Rëzo Cut maintains an even length all the way around your head,” she says. “It liberates the curls from the root area so they can move freely.”
Image Source: @nubiarezo
In other words, if you straighten a DevaCut, your hair may appear uneven, while the Rëzo Cut will look even in both a curly and straightened state. The Rëzo Cut is also perfect for curlies who love their length, as it creates a shape while maintaining both length and volume.
Tips and Favorite Products?
For curlies struggling with moisture, Nubia recommends priming the hair before adding styling products to avoid disrupting the moisture and encourage humidity resistance. If priming isn’t something you’re interested in, she also suggests Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner, one of her favorite products to use on clients.
Image Source: @nubiarezo
Another favorite is her trusty diffuser. For Type 4 clients, Nubia reveals that the trick for the best results is to wait to diffuse your hair, allowing it to partially air dry (about 25 percent)– then go in with the diffuser.
What Curly Trends Should We Expect to See More of in 2024?
“I expect women to request more edgy and daring hairstyles this year. The fear of short styles and the salon is starting to become a thing of the past!”
Image Source: @nubiarezo
Nubia has a hopeful vision for the future, in which women will love and accept themselves for who they are, including their beautiful hair.
“In the past, women could never fully be themselves because they had to change that one thing about them [their hair]. I’m giving women the tools to experience their hair at its best. The woman you have to fall in love with is you. The moment you fall in love with you, everyone will notice the beauty in your hair. You must find your self-confidence instead of looking to other women for inspiration.”
Image Source: @nubiarezo
Want to read about more entrepreneurial ventures? Interested in more curly cuts? Here are 18 popular styles.
Have you had this cut, or are you interested? Please share your thoughts with us below!
