When it comes to curly hair care, we’ve all heard the usual advice: hydrate, avoid heat, and use products designed specifically for curls. But there’s one technique that many people overlook, despite its amazing benefits—hair plopping. If you haven’t heard of it, you’re not alone, but this simple method could be a game-changer for achieving beautiful, defined curls without frizz or crunch.
Hair plopping is a technique that involves using a soft cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel to help set your curls while they dry. Instead of rubbing your hair dry or leaving it to air dry in a loose state, you “plop” your wet curls into the fabric, wrapping it gently to help them dry in a defined, frizz-free shape. The beauty of plopping is that it minimizes friction, prevents frizz, and allows curls to retain their natural pattern.
Curly Girls...we know you've tried everything. I get it.
Wavy girls...if you have waves...you actually have curls. They just aren't being treated like curls. Hear me out.
Why should you try plopping?
The benefits are more than just aesthetic.
When you plop, it's all about better curl formation: you’re essentially letting gravity do the work of shaping your curls, without disrupting their natural formation. This results in bouncy, well-defined curls that last longer. Additionally, plopping helps with moisture retention—since the hair isn’t being aggressively towel-dried, your curls stay hydrated, which is essential for keeping them healthy and shiny.
AND...Plopping can also reduce drying time, especially when using a microfiber towel, which absorbs water much faster than traditional towels. (yes, we have an oversized one in our shop). This means you can spend less time waiting for your curls to dry and more time enjoying them! It also minimizes frizz by preventing hair from being tugged and pulled during the drying process.
Here’s how to get started: After washing your hair and applying your favorite styling products, brush through with the 9 row brush (our comparable to a Denman) and place an oversized microfiber towel flat on a surface. Flip your head upside down and gently place your curls into the center of the fabric. Then, gather the edges of the fabric and twist it to hold your hair in place, leaving your curls to dry for 20-30 minutes, or until they’re about 80% dry. Afterward, you can either let your hair air-dry fully or diffuse for added volume.
Plopping is the way. Check out the curly girl collection for a comb and scalp massager to use in the shower, and a 9 row brush that won't frizz out your curls. Pair it with the oversized microfiber towel...and BAM! It's a new you.