In the ongoing quest for the perfect hair styling methods, we are increasingly coming across techniques that improve the health of our hair while giving us the look we dream of. One of these revolutionary methods is "Hair Plopping" and this method is popular for those with curly hair or those who want to enhance the natural wave in their hair. This technique is a game-changer for anyone who wants to define and enhance their natural curls without the damage that heat styling can cause. In this blog, we will dive deep into the world of Hair Plopping, explaining what it is, how to do it, and why it might just be the key to your best hair ever. Finally, you will receive extra tips from Andy Uffels, our founder and award-winning hairstylist.
What is Hair Plopping?
Hair Plopping is a simple yet effective technique that uses a cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel to dry your hair. The goal? To enhance and define your hair’s natural curl patterns while reducing frizz and eliminating the need for heat styling. As such, it’s especially popular among curly-haired people, but can be used by anyone looking for a healthier way to style their hair.
The Benefits of Hair Plopping
The benefits of this technique are numerous. In addition to defining curls without the damage of heat, there is also the reduction of frizz. This effect is significant due to the elimination of friction between your hair and rough towels. It also promotes a faster drying process, which is especially useful if you have a busy schedule. Furthermore, you do not need heat and therefore it reduces heat damage, since there is no need for a blow dryer or other heat styling tools. Furthermore, the drying process can be faster compared to air drying. In short, Hair Plopping is a healthy, efficient way to carry out your natural beauty routine.
How does Hair Plopping work?
Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s dive into how to actually do this technique. Start with clean, wet hair and apply your favorite leave-in conditioner or curl-enhancing products. Next, spread out a cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel on a flat surface. Bend over and let your hair fall into the center of the material. Wrap the t-shirt or towel around your head and tie it in place. Then, leave your hair in this “plop” position for 20 minutes to an hour, or even overnight for maximum curl definition. Here’s a quick recap of the steps:
Wash and Condition: Start with clean, wet hair. Apply your usual leave-in conditioner or curl enhancing products to your hair.
Lay the foundation: Spread the T-shirt or microfiber towel out on a flat surface, such as your bed or a chair.
Plop Your Hair: Bend over and let your hair fall into the center of the t-shirt or towel. Make sure all of your hair is centered on the material.
Wrap It Up: Take the bottom of the t-shirt or towel and wrap it around your head, making sure all of your hair is neatly wrapped in the material. Tie the sleeves or ends of the t-shirt or towel at the back of your head to keep everything in place.
Wait: Let your hair "plop" for anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on your hair type and how quickly it dries. Some people even choose to plop overnight for maximum curl definition.
Unfold and Style: Gently remove the t-shirt or towel and let your curls loose. You should notice that your curls are more defined without the use of heat.
Andy's Tips for Perfect Plopping
Although Hair Plopping is relatively simple, there are a few tips that can make a big difference in your results:
Choose the Right Material: A microfiber towel is gentler on your hair than a T-shirt and essential for reducing frizz and treating your curls gently.
Use the right products: Stick to a routine using a leave-in conditioner like our My Hero Wonder Spray combined with a curl enhancing product like our best selling Velvetine Styling Cream for optimal results. Apply to towel dried hair before using the microfiber towel.
Be patient: Give your hair enough time to dry in the plop. Don't rush the process by removing the towel too early. Experiment with what works best for you.
Why Try Hair Plopping?
In a world where we are constantly looking for ways to improve our health and well-being, Hair Plopping offers a welcome respite for our hair. By avoiding the heat and embracing natural curls and the natural movement in your hair, we can not only protect our hair from damage, but also save time in our daily routines.
The beauty of Hair Plopping is that it’s not just a natural hair styling technique; it’s also a method that fits into a broader hair care movement that values health, ease, and authenticity. Whether you’re curly, wavy, or somewhere in between, Hair Plopping offers a simple, effective way to bring out your natural texture at its best.
So, why not put down the heat styling tools and discover the magic of Hair Plopping? Your curls will thank you.
