A plopping towel is a hair styling technique that has gained popularity among those with curly or wavy hair. It involves using a specific type of towel to help enhance and define natural curls without the need for heat styling or harsh products. The term “plopping” refers to the process of laying the towel over your head and “plopping” your hair inside to encourage curls to form.
While the concept of plopping may seem simple, it can make a significant difference in the overall health and appearance of curly hair. This article will explore what a plopping towel is, how to use it properly, and the benefits of incorporating this technique into your hair care routine.
The Basics of the Plopping Method
The plopping method is a hair-drying technique used to enhance natural curls and waves in curly or wavy hair. It involves using a special towel designed for this purpose, called a plopping towel, to wrap the hair and allow it to air dry. This technique minimizes hair frizz and maximizes curl definition.
To plop your hair, first, wash it with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to maintain its natural oils. Then, use a plopping towel to wrap your hair gently and create a ‘plop’. Leave your hair in the towel for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to air dry naturally. Once you remove the plopping towel, you will notice defined curls and waves that last longer and require less styling. The plopping method is perfect for women with curly and wavy hair who want a low-maintenance, natural look.
How to Plop Your Hair Using a Towel
Plopping is a hair-drying technique that uses a T-shirt or microfiber towel to scrunch your hair. It is commonly used by people with curly or wavy hair to enhance and define their natural curls. Here is how to plop your hair using a towel:
First, wash your hair and apply your favorite styling products. Then, flip your hair over and place the towel on a flat surface, with one corner facing you. Bend down and position your wet hair on the center of the towel, with the ends of your hair pointing towards the corner facing you. Fold the towel over your head and tie the corners at the back of your head, creating a “plop” of hair on top of your head. Leave the towel on for around 20 minutes or until your hair is mostly dry. This technique helps to reduce frizz and maintain your hair’s natural curls.
The Advantages of Plopping Your Hair with a Towel
Using a plopping towel has various advantages when it comes to drying your hair. Firstly, it is a gentle method of drying that prevents hair breakage and frizz. Since plopping your hair involves wrapping it in a microfiber towel and tucking it away from your face, this helps to separate the strands and eliminate tangling. This is especially useful for individuals with curly hair, as traditional towel drying methods can pull and damage the hair strands.
Another advantage of plopping your hair with a towel is that it helps to retain moisture in your hair. The microfiber towel is highly absorbent and can hold up to six times its weight in water. Therefore, using it to dry your hair helps to eliminate excess moisture without stripping your hair of its natural oils. Additionally, plopping your hair with a towel helps to define your curls, allowing them to dry in their natural shape and reducing the need for additional styling products.
Choosing the Right Towel for Plopping
When it comes to plopping your hair, choosing the right type of towel can make all the difference. A plopping towel should be made of a material that is gentle on your hair and won’t cause unnecessary friction, which can lead to breakage and frizz. This means opting for a microfiber towel, which is soft and absorbent, but also lightweight enough to prevent heavy strain on your hair.
In addition to choosing the right material, size is also an important factor to consider. The towel should be large enough to cover all your hair while plopping, so it’s best to go for a towel that is designed specifically for this purpose. Look for a towel that is wide enough to fit around your head comfortably, with enough room to tuck in all your hair. With the right type of towel, you can achieve a perfectly defined, frizz-free curls with every use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Plopping Hair with a Towel
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Plopping Hair with a Towel
Plopping hair with a towel is a handy technique that can help wet curly hair retain its natural shape. However, it’s easy to go wrong with the process, leading to less-than-ideal results. One mistake to avoid is rubbing the hair vigorously with the towel before plopping. Doing so can lead to frizz and damage, so it’s best to squeeze the hair gently instead.
Another common mistake is leaving the towel on for too long. Ideally, plopping should be done for no more than 20 minutes at a time to avoid any damage to the hair. Additionally, it’s best to avoid using a towel that’s too rough or heavy, which can lead to breakage. By following these tips, you can plop your hair with a towel effectively and achieve gorgeous, well-defined curls.
Other Techniques for Drying Curly Hair
Aside from plopping, there are a number of other techniques for drying curly hair that can be used and combined to create the perfect routine for your hair type. One common technique is air-drying, which involves simply letting your curls dry naturally without the use of a towel. For best results, try scrunching your curls as they dry to enhance their definition and reduce frizz.
Another popular method is diffusing, which involves using a hair dryer with a special attachment that helps distribute heat evenly throughout your curls. This can speed up the drying process while still preserving your hair’s natural shape and texture. Whatever technique or combination of techniques you choose, be sure to always handle your curls with care and use products that are specifically designed for curly hair to achieve the best results possible.
Getting the Best Results from Plopping with a Towel
Plopping with a towel may seem like a simple task, but there are some best practices to get the most out of this popular hair drying technique. Firstly, it is important to use a soft, absorbent towel that won’t damage your hair. You can choose from microfiber, cotton, or even a t-shirt, which are all excellent options.
Secondly, make sure your hair is well-saturated before plopping it into the towel. This will help to ensure that every strand is evenly distributed in the towel, and your hair will dry more quickly. Once your hair is in the towel, twist the ends of the towel together to secure it and leave it on for around 20-30 minutes. Lastly, when removing the towel, be gentle and use your fingers to scrunch your hair back into its natural shape. By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve excellent results when plopping with a towel.
Conclusion
A plopping towel is a hair drying technique that provides a natural yet defined curly look. It is one of the most efficient ways to style curls without using heat. Plopping preserves the shape of curls, reduces frizz and enhances their definition. However, it is important to note that plopping is not suitable for all hair types and some modifications might need to be made depending on individual needs.
Overall, if you have curly hair, throw away your old t-shirt and give plopping a try! The plopping towel technique is a game-changer and is sure to transform your hair routine. It is a simple, quick and inexpensive process that can be done in the comfort of your own home. So grab a towel, embrace your curls and get ready for some fabulous, defined locks.