Gloss, Definition & Juicy Shine:
Behind Bretman Rock’s Rizos Curls Campaign with Hairstylist Angel Gonzalez
When it comes to creating effortlessly glossy curls and waves, the secret isn’t just one product—it’s the right combination of moisture, definition, styling technique, and a whole lot of shine. For the Rizos Curls Gloss + Repair Collection campaign featuring Bretman Rock, celebrity hairstylist Angel Gonzalez brought that philosophy to life. With more than 20 years of experience behind the chair, Angel created a look that felt polished yet effortless, bringing out the natural beauty, texture, and radiance of Bretman’s hair. We caught up with Angel to get the behind-the-scenes details on the campaign, his styling process, and his tips for achieving maximum shine at home.
The Inspiration: Bright, Natural & Full of Life
For Angel, the goal was never to completely transform Bretman’s hair—it was to enhance what was already there. “Bretman’s hair is naturally wavy, thick, and strong,” says Angel. “My goal was to maintain its natural beauty while highlighting everything that makes the Rizos Curls brand so special.” The campaign’s aesthetic became the perfect inspiration for the finished look: bright, natural, free, hydrated, and confident. “We wanted his hair to be a showstopper while still feeling effortless—like someone who knows exactly what they’re doing when it comes to their curls and waves.” And that effortless finish started with one thing: hydration.
Angel’s Recipe for Effortless, Glossy Waves
Creating Bretman’s campaign-ready waves was all about layering products strategically to enhance definition, volume, moisture, and shine.
Angel started with the Gloss + Repair Mask, leaving it on for five minutes to give the hair an extra dose of moisture and nourishment.
After gently towel-drying, he applied the 6-in-1 Styling Cream to help protect the hair and keep the ends looking healthy. Next came the Curl Defining Mousse, applied while the hair was still damp to build volume, definition, and memory.
To help maintain the shape and defend against humidity, Angel finished the styling application with Light Hold Gel.
Then came the diffuser.
Angel diffused the hair until it was completely dry, allowing the products to fully set while enhancing Bretman’s natural waves and volume.
But the real finishing touch? Gloss + Repair Oil Serum.
Applied specifically to the loose or dry ends, the serum added the final layer of moisture and high-impact shine.
The result: defined, touchable waves with major glossy-hair energy.
The Gloss + Repair Serum: “10 Out of 10!”
Of all the products Angel used, there was one that really stood out. “The Rizos Curls Gloss + Repair Serum was a game changer for me,” he says. “The amount of shine it gives without weighing the hair down is what makes it so unique—and a little goes a long way!” And Angel has a particularly juicy way of describing the experience: “I would describe this gem as taking a slice of a healthy, silky, juicy mango and applying that sensation to each individual hair strand.” We’ll take that as the ultimate compliment. After more than two decades as a hairstylist, Angel sees the serum as an especially valuable finishing product for dry, chemically treated, or coarse hair. His verdict? 10 out of 10!
Angel’s Shine Secrets for Curls & Waves
Want to recreate that glossy, campaign-worthy finish at home? Angel recommends starting with the basics: understand your hair. “My advice to all my wavy and curly pops is to get educated about your hair type and understand what your hair needs.” Knowing your hair’s needs makes it easier to choose the right combination of hydration, styling, and hold. Angel also emphasizes the importance of a great haircut and proper diffusing technique. And when it comes to styling products, don’t necessarily be afraid to use them. “Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount of your favorite products!” For curly and wavy hair, which can often be washed less frequently, maintaining moisture and definition between wash days is key. A well-layered routine can help curls and waves stay hydrated, controlled, fresh, and full of life.
Why Angel Loves Rizos Curls
For Angel, Rizos Curls stands out for more than just its formulas. “What makes me so excited about Rizos Curls is that it’s Latina-owned, and seeing the founder, who has my same type of curls, changing the game is incredibly inspiring.” He also appreciates how the products perform specifically on textured hair. “Us curly pops often wash our hair only once a week,” Angel explains. “These products help keep your curls and waves controlled, hydrated, fresh, and full of life.” For him, it comes down to the combination of shine, moisture, and consistency. And that’s exactly what he believes sets Rizos Curls apart.
The Takeaway: Let Your Natural Texture Shine
Bretman’s Gloss + Repair campaign look proves that healthy-looking hair and effortless styling can go hand in hand. Rather than masking natural texture, Angel’s approach was about enhancing it—building moisture, definition, volume, and shine while allowing the natural waves to remain the star. From a five-minute mask treatment to strategic styling layers and a final dose of Gloss + Repair Oil Serum, the routine was all about creating that coveted juicy, glossy finish. Because when your hair is hydrated, defined, nourished, and full of shine, you don't need to hide your texture. You just let it shine.
Meet Angel Gonzalez
Jose Angel Gonzalez, known professionally as Angel, is a Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist and self-proclaimed “hair engineer” with more than 20 years of industry experience. Originally from Houston, Texas, Angel began his career at Visible Changes, where he worked his way up to Artistic Director before making the move to Los Angeles in 2015. Since then, Angel has built a celebrated career styling some of Hollywood’s most recognizable names, including Bretman Rock, Paris Hilton, Kyle Richards, Tyra Banks, Laverne Cox, and Lil’ Kim. Known for his artistry, technical expertise, and ability to bring out the natural beauty of textured hair, Angel has become a sought-after talent in the beauty and entertainment space.
