When curly girls first fear of plopping, many wonder what the heck it’s all about. However, it’s actually a very easy method to help dry your curls evenly with minimal frizz or damage to your strands. So really, what’s not to like? These are the benefits of plopping your curls. If you haven’t yet, give this technique a try and you might find yourself pleasantly surprised with the results.
The Benefits of Plopping Your Curls
What is it, and how does it help?
First things first; let’s go back to basics. Plopping is the technique of taking your curls, scrunching them, and then using a t-shirt or towel to hold them in that shape. This allows your curls to dry while maintaining their natural shape, so your curls will hold longer. Without water to weigh down your strands while drying, it keeps your curls from stretching out, so you’ll have naturally tighter coils. With curls piled on top of your head while drying, it also gives you natural lift at your roots, as your strands won’t be pulled downward during the drying process. It’s also a more gentle drying process, meaning your curls will be less susceptible to damage or frizz.
How to plop your curls:
After you’ve finished your shower, gently squeeze out excess water and apply your regular curl care products to wet, but not soaking wet, curls. Lay an old t-shirt out on a flat surface, such as a bed or counter top. Face the sleeves of the shirt away from you. Flip your head over, gently lowering your curls onto the t-shirt. Allow your curls to pile on top of each other, similarly to something being stacked.
Once your curls are plopped, take the bottom part of the t-shirt, and pull it over the nape of your neck. Make sure it’s tightly secured against the back of your head. Pull the first sleeve around the back of your head. Follow with the other sleeve. Don’t be afraid to use clips as needed to hold the shirt in place. Pull the sleeves to the front of your head, creating a cross over across your forehead and secure in place. Allow your curls to dry for a couple of hours before removing. Your strands should be about 80% dry at that point.
If you’re in a rush, you can swap out the first t-shirt after about 30 minutes for a dry one. Finish up with a diffuser or allow your curls finish air drying.