Celebrity Hairstylist Mara Roszak on Starting ROZ and Holiday Hair Predictions

My First-hand Thoughts

I was very excited to experience RŌZ products, and I tested out my routine based on Roszack’s recommendation. “If you’re just getting started, I’d say try the Milk Hair Serum.” Just as described, it’s a super lightweight formulation with a consistency similar to a moisturizer that helps smooth and reduce frizz. 

I used it after washing my hair and applied it before drying my hair with my trusty Dyson, as it was also supposed to heat protect my hair up to 450℉. The smell is divine and isn’t overpowering like a lot of other “milk-inspired” serums I’ve tested. My hair also felt softer and had less frizz than it usually did after blow drying.

I also tried the brand’s Evergreen Style Cream. While I’m not one to usually reach for styling cream (many of them leave my hair with a crunchy feel), I decided to give it a go. I opted to create a sleek bun, and the styling cream provided a light hold that kept my baby hairs and flyaways in place without that overly crunchy feel I was concerned about.​

Aside from the incredible products, I chatted with Roszak about the pivotal moment that helped catapult her career as a celebrity hair stylist (hint: Buffy!), what hair trend she thinks is going to take over this holiday season, and on the flip side, which hair trends are completely over.  

Keep reading for our full interview with the talented celebrity hairstylist and beauty founder, and learn what’s next for RŌZ.

TQE: How would you describe your work? 

MR: “My work is about enhancing what’s naturally beautiful in each person’s hair and look. I love creating styles that feel effortless, approachable, and timeless. Whether I’m behind the chair or developing products, I aim to bring beauty and ease into people’s lives.”

TQE: What would you say was the pivotal moment in your career that launched your career as a celebrity hair stylist? 

MR: “Doing Sarah Michelle Gellar’s hair right after I finished beauty school was the pivotal moment. I didn’t even have a driver’s license yet – my mom had to drive me to her house. I consider that to be day one – that job led to a long working relationship and opened the door to the celebrity world for me.”

TQE: You've worked with some amazing clients, including Zoe Saldana, Emma Stone, Brie Larson and more. How would you describe your creative process when working with each of your clients? 

MR: “My creative process is very collaborative and intuitive. I draw inspiration from the clothes, the mood, and the person. It’s like sculpting – sometimes I don’t know exactly what I want until I start working with the shape and texture. It’s about enhancing what’s already there, which oftentimes is the dress.”

TQE: How would you describe the RŌZ customer?

MR: “The RŌZ customer wants clean beauty that actually works. They care about ingredients, but they also want their hair to look amazing –  whether they’re air-drying, heat styling, or doing nothing at all. They’re into simplicity, but they don’t want to compromise on performance. Basically, they want products that feel good, smell amazing, and make their hair look effortlessly healthy.”

TQE: What is your personal favorite RŌZ product? 

MR: “The RŌZ Foundation Shampoo and Conditioner are my must-haves. My hair has never been happier. I also love the Milk Hair Serum – it’s like a moisturizer for your hair, super hydrating and lightweight.”

TQE: Where or who do you look for inspiration within the beauty industry?

MR: “I’ve always drawn my inspiration from nature. The textures, the movement – it all informs how I approach hair. There’s an ease and effortlessness in the natural world that I try to bring into every style I create.”

TQE: What are 3 beauty products you can't live without? (Doesn't have to be haircare!)

MR: “My top three would be the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 for that dewy, natural coverage; the Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask, which keeps my lips hydrated year-round; and the Vintner’s Daughter Botanical Serum – it’s total luxury in a bottle and gives my skin the most beautiful glow.”

TQE: What's a hair trend you think is going to take over this holiday season?

MR: “I think we’re going to see a return to sleek & shine looks this holiday season. There’s just something about polished, healthy-looking hair that feels right for colder months – and it’s also practical since you don’t want to leave the house with damp hair in winter.”

TQE: Any hair trend you're currently completely over?

MR: “I’m truly so happy to see that people are really starting to embrace their natural texture. We are in the era of the effortless air dry. I always see the beauty in my clients' natural hair – every style I create is to make what is already there shine. And RŌZ was created to celebrate and enhance natural textures, not battle them.”

‍TQE: Best piece of advice you've received when starting RŌZ?

MR: “When I started RŌZ, I was surprised by how many people were eager to share their knowledge and support. The artists' community has been so incredible and integral to RŌZ's success. I’ve learned that you can't (and don’t have to) do it all alone – you should lean on your people, play to their strengths.”

TQE: Any advice for someone who wants to become a hairstylist or start their own business?

MR: “You have to be willing to do it all – no job is too small. Say yes to everything, be humble and stay curious - especially in the beginning. It’s not always glamorous, but if you love it, it’s worth every bit of the hustle!”

Shop RŌZ at RŌZ.com and Sephora now.