If you have curls, you undoubtedly spend a lot of time trying to achieve frizz-free, defined, and bouncy curls that last for more than a day or two. Plopping could help you achieve this, as it refers to a method performed on wet hair after applying a styling product. In addition, it will allow your curls to maintain their spiral form even after they have dried and could cut your drying time in half. So, let's look at the process of plopping and how your curls could benefit from this drying technique.
What Is Hair Plopping For Curly Hair And What Are Its Benefits?
Plopping is a method that involves drying your wet curls on top of your head using a cotton T-shirt, pillowcase, or microfiber towel, which helps to boost definition and cut down on frizz.
In other words, the plopping technique will give you the volume, shine, and definition you desire while maintaining your curl pattern. This is accomplished by elevating your roots and drying your hair from the top down.
How Long Can You Plop Curly Hair?
The length of time you plop is directly linked to how long it takes your hair to dry. The porosity of your curly hair also significantly impacts drying time. For instance, low porosity hair has a longer drying time, as once moisture is in this type of hair, it is hard to get rid of it. On the other hand, it is easier to dry high porosity hair, as this type of hair can absorb water as well as it can lose it. Determine how long this process should take based on the history of your hair and the amount of time it usually takes for your curls to dry. Remember that a T-shirt will absorb moisture much more quickly than air drying, meaning the process might take less time than usual. Remember that you want your curls damp before you plop them.
Will Plopping Work For All Curly Hair Types?
Plopping will benefit individuals with waves and looser curls (2A to 3B). Individuals with tighter curls and coils (3C to 4C) can also benefit from plopping, but they must remember that it can also cause shrinkage. Nevertheless, you can still reap the benefits of this method by performing an additional step—braiding or twisting your hair before wrapping it up with a t-shirt or microfibre towel.
How Do You Plop Curly Hair?
Cleanse and condition
After shampooing with a sulfate-free shampoo like Sofnfree’s one with manuka honey, apply the moisturising conditioner with manuka honey and avocado so it can make detangling your curls easier to care for. When you leave the shower, your hair will feel drenched, but don't wring it out just yet. Instead, turn your head so that it is upside down and then gently shake it from side to side without touching your curls. In this way, you can ensure your curls are damp but not dripping wet.
Choose And Apply Your Styling Products
Now is the time to work your leave-in conditioner, curl cream, and oil through your natural hair, i.e., the L.O.C. method. Get the best results from Sofnfree’s shampoo and conditioner by following them with its Leave-In Conditioner With Manuka Honey & Avocado Oil, which can seal the moisture in your curls and prepare them for a variety of styles.
Next, work Sofnfree’s Curling Creme With Coconut & Jamaican Castor Oils through your curly hair in sections with your fingers. After applying this product to your curls, you should see some separation and definition before you plop.
Start The Plopping Process
Flip your head forward and hover your crown down over the middle of your T-shirt or towel after applying your styling products. Next, take hold of the corners at the bottom of the towel or t-shirt and fold them toward the base of your neck. After that, bring the upper corners down to meet the lower part of the towel or t-shirt. Then, sit up straight and knot the top corners behind your head, or stand up and tie the top flaps over the front of your forehead. After the knot has been secured, tuck any loose ends in.
Dry, Baby, Dry
Once your curly hair has dried and you’ve removed the towel or t-shirt from your head, spray a light amount of our Everyday Curl Refresh With Coconut & Jamaican Black Castor Oils to improve curl definition.
Plopping could involve trial and error before you understand how it best works for you, as it depends on the type of curls and porosity you possess. Working it into your haircare routine could give you another option for drying your hair quicker, without heat.