To get nice air-dried curls, try the t-shirt plopping method! This gently encourages curl formation without frizz.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Prepare Your Hair: After washing and conditioning your hair, gently squeeze out excess water. Do not rub your hair with a towel, as this causes frizz.
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Apply Product (Optional): While your hair is still damp, apply your preferred curl cream, mousse, or gel. Distribute the product evenly, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends.
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Lay Out the T-Shirt: Place a long-sleeved t-shirt on a flat surface, like your bed, with the neckline closest to you.
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Flip and Plop: Flip your head forward, placing your hair in the center of the t-shirt.
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Wrap and Secure:
- Bring the bottom of the t-shirt up and over the nape of your neck.
- Bring the sleeves of the t-shirt around to the front of your forehead.
- Twist the sleeves together and secure them at the back of your neck with a hair tie or clip. This creates a turban.
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Wait and Dry: Leave the t-shirt turban in place for about an hour, or even longer if you have thicker hair. The longer you leave it, the more defined your curls will be. You can even sleep with it overnight!
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Remove and Finish: Carefully remove the t-shirt. Avoid touching your curls too much as they dry to minimize frizz.
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Air Dry Completely: Allow your hair to air dry completely. Resist the urge to touch or manipulate it.
Why This Works:
- Reduces Frizz: The smooth surface of the t-shirt absorbs excess water without roughing up the hair cuticle, minimizing frizz.
- Encourages Curl Formation: Plopping gently encourages your natural curl pattern to form as your hair dries.
- Adds Volume: Lifting the hair at the roots helps to create volume.
Tips for Success:
- Use a smooth, cotton t-shirt. Avoid terry cloth towels.
- Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type.
- Don't overdo it with the product. Too much product can weigh down your curls.
- Be patient! Air drying takes time.
- Once dry, you can gently fluff your roots to add more volume.
- If you need to speed up the drying process, use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer on a low heat setting. Avoid direct heat.
