How to Plop Hair
Plopping is a simple yet effective technique for drying curly and wavy hair, minimizing frizz and enhancing curl definition. It involves wrapping your wet hair in a soft material, like a t-shirt or microfiber towel, to encourage your natural curl pattern to form.
Plopping is a hair-drying method where you gently wrap your wet, product-treated hair in a soft, absorbent material. This helps to define curls, reduce frizz, and increase volume without the harshness of towel-drying or air-drying. The key is to gently scrunch your hair upwards, not twist or pull it.
How to Plop Your Hair: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare your hair: Apply your styling products (leave-in conditioner, curl cream, gel, etc.) to your wet hair. Applying product before plopping is generally recommended to minimize frizz and enhance curl clumping. [Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrpoeRFsBpA]
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Choose your plopping material: A cotton t-shirt is ideal; a microfiber towel works well too, but avoid traditional terrycloth towels, as they can cause friction and frizz. [Source: https://www.beautycon.com/article/to-plop-or-not-to-plop, https://wavyhaircare.com/how-to-plop-your-wavy-hair-step-by-step-guide-with-photos/]
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Lay down your plopping material: Lay the t-shirt or towel flat on a surface. Position the bottom hem of the fabric closer to you.
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Flip and plop: Bend over, allowing your hair to fall onto the center of the fabric. [Source: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a25400845/how-to-plop-curls/] Gently scrunch your hair upwards, like an accordion, as you bring your head closer to the fabric. Ensure all your hair is in the center of the material; avoid having sections hanging over the sides. [Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/curlyhair/comments/2u6p5d/so_how_do_i_plop_properly/]
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Secure your hair: Gather the top edges of the fabric and tie them together at the back of your head. You can also simply tuck the fabric into itself.
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Plop for 20-30 minutes or longer: The amount of time you plop will depend on your hair type and thickness. [Source: Various YouTube tutorials referenced]
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Release and style: After the designated time, carefully remove the fabric and gently style your hair using your fingers. Avoid harsh combing or brushing.
Benefits of Plopping
- Reduces frizz.
- Enhances curl definition.
- Increases volume.
- Minimizes manipulation and damage.
