How to Plop Natural Hair

Air-drying and diffusing are the two main hair drying techniques for people with naturally textured hair. Another drying approach you may have also heard rumors about, or even experimented with, is plopping. What is plopping you may ask? Plopping is a heatless and simple way of drying wavy, curly, and naturally textured hair hair and can be used by anyone who may have thick, fine, long, or short hair. 

What is Plopping? 

Plopping is a great method to dry your hair as it helps encourage definition and prevents frizz. Plopping also reduces the need or urge to touch your hair while it dries since they are wrapped up in a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt. Another benefit is that it can also cut down on drying time, especially for those with long or thick hair that tend to retain more moisture because of their length and density. Plopping can also benefit those who have finer or looser textures to create more definition since their hair is being scrunched up and creates lift at the root while they dry.

How to Plop Wavy, Curly and Textured Hair

If you were unaware, terry cloth towels are not ideal for anyone who has naturally textured hair because the rough material can cause frizz. Therefore, it’s highly recommended plopping with a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt. These materials will be gentle on your hair and will help absorb excess moisture.

Step 1: Once your hair is freshly cleansed, conditioned, and styled, squeeze out any excess water so your strands are damp but not soaking wet anymore. 

Step 2: Lay the microfiber towel or t-shirt flat out on your counter or bed. Lay it down on your preferred surface with the tail of the towel or end of the shirt facing down.

Step 3: Bending at your waist, flip your hair forward and place your hair at the center of the microfiber towel.

Step 4: While your head is still facing downward, grab the piece of the towel that is behind your head and pull it up and over your head so it lands at the nape of your neck. Wrap and tie the extra fabric of your microfiber towel behind your head. Your hair should fall in a mound at the top of your head.

Step 5: And Voila! Finish drying your hair while plopping! You can even go to sleep while you plop so when you wake up the next day your hair will be dry, defined and frizz free!

Step 6: Once you take the plop down, add some of Donna’s Recipe’s Hair Strength Oil into your palms. Scrunch your hair to break any remaining gel cast and fluff your hair at the root. 

Are you new to plopping or have you tried it before? Let us know below!