Hair plopping - sounds weird, but it works. The super simple new trend for creating defined curls without heat styling, hair plopping is going to be your hair's new best friend. Promise.
The foolproof way to getting perfect, non-frizzy curls with minimal effort, plopping has become TikTok's new go-to hair drying technique. It's easy, effective and loves your curly hair. In short, plopping is the one.
But what is plopping? And how do you even do it? This is what you need to know.
Everything You Need To Know About Hair Plopping
What is hair plopping?
First up, what's with the name? Well, the clue is in the name - the idea being that you simply 'plop' wet hair onto a cotton t-shirt or similar, wrap it up, let it dry and voila, exceptional curls every time.
No more heated tongs or tools damaging your luscious curls, just a super easy heat-free way to dry your hair and get your best curls ever.
What are the benefits of hair plopping?
If you're sick of heated tools scorching and damaging your curls then plopping is the easiest way to perfect your coils without reaching for the tongs.
'Hair plopping helps to dry your hair more efficiently with less frizz,' says A-list hairstylist and SheaMoisture UK ambassador, Stefan Bertin. 'It also creates more defined, voluminous, and longer lasting curls.'
The best bit? Although plopping is ideal for curly and textured hair, it's an ultra gentle drying technique that's kind to other hair types as well.
'All hair types can benefit from using a T-shirt or microfibre towel to absorb water from hair straight after washing,' explains Bertin. 'Cutting down drying time and reducing frizz is something a lot of people would love. But, for curl definition, this technique is best for 3C curls and looser.'
Alas, plopping isn't for everyone. 'This technique does not work for everybody, usually those with low porosity hair,' advises Bertin. 'Everybody’s hair is different, so trial and error as well as experimentation is always key - especially when it comes to curls.'
How To Plop Your Hair
Thankfully, unlike other hair drying techniques, plopping doesn't involve elaborate curlers, damaging hairdryers or endless round brushes. In fact, all you need is a microfibre towel or even an old t-shirt.
ELLE Edit: Your Hair Plopping Kit
Follow the below steps to perfect plopping:
- Straight after finishing your cleansing routine, apply your chosen products to damp hair, detangle and then lightly scrunch to encourage your curls to clump together.
- Lay a cotton t-shirt (long sleeved is easier) out on a flat surface - the bottom of the t-shirt should be closest to you.
- Flip your head over and slowly lower your hair into the centre of the t-shirt.
- Take the two bottom corners of the t-shirt and wrap them around the nape of your neck.
- Take the neckline of the t-shirt and pull it over your hair and also into the nape of your neck with the two bottom corners. Your hair should now be cupped inside the T-shirt and the arms should be free.
- Grab one arm with each hand, stand up straight, bring both -shirt arms up and tie them together in a knot. You can then tuck any loose bits in to what should now be a tight-ish bonnet-like contraption.
ELLE Top Tip: Don't wait until your hair is completely dry to take the t-shirt out. Wait 10-15 minutes, leave to air dry or diffuse and then dress out by scrunching or shaking your hair.
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