When it comes to drying curly or wavy hair, two popular methods are plopping and air-drying without plopping. Each technique has its benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one can impact the definition, volume, and frizz level of your hair.
In this topic, we will compare plopping vs. not plopping, discussing their pros and cons, how to do each method correctly, and which one might work best for your hair type.
What is Plopping?
Plopping is a heat-free drying technique that enhances curl formation while reducing frizz. It involves using a soft T-shirt or microfiber towel to wrap wet hair in a way that encourages natural curl definition.
How to Plop Your Hair
-
Apply Your Styling Products – After washing your hair, apply leave-in conditioner, curl cream, or gel to damp hair.
-
Lay a T-Shirt or Microfiber Towel on a Flat Surface – A T-shirt works better than a regular towel because it is gentler on curls and prevents frizz.
-
Flip Your Hair Forward – Carefully lower your hair onto the center of the fabric, allowing the curls to gather naturally.
-
Wrap and Secure the Fabric – Fold the back of the shirt over your head and tie the sleeves at the nape of your neck. Ensure it is snug but not too tight.
-
Leave It On for 20-60 Minutes – The longer you plop, the more your curls will set. Some people even plop overnight for maximum definition.
-
Unwrap and Let Your Hair Dry – After plopping, you can either air-dry or diffuse your hair for added volume.
What Happens If You Don’t Plop?
Not plopping means letting your hair dry without wrapping it up in a T-shirt or microfiber towel. Instead, you might:
-
Let your hair air-dry completely.
-
Use a diffuser to dry your curls.
-
Wrap your hair in a regular towel (which may cause frizz).
Some people prefer not plopping because it gives a more natural curl pattern and prevents excess shrinkage.
Plopping vs. Not Plopping: A Detailed Comparison
1. Curl Definition
-
Plopping: Helps enhance natural curls by keeping them in a compact shape while drying.
-
Not Plopping: May result in looser waves or curls, especially if hair is heavy and pulled down by water weight.
2. Drying Time
-
Plopping: Absorbs excess moisture quickly, reducing overall drying time.
-
Not Plopping: Can take longer for hair to dry, especially for those with thick or long hair.
3. Frizz Control
-
Plopping: Reduces frizz by preventing hair from rubbing against rough towels or air-drying unevenly.
-
Not Plopping: Might lead to more frizz, especially if you use a terrycloth towel or if your environment is humid.
4. Volume and Root Lift
-
Plopping: Encourages volume by lifting the roots away from the scalp.
-
Not Plopping: Can cause curls to dry closer to the scalp, reducing volume.
5. Comfort and Convenience
-
Plopping: Requires a little effort to wrap the hair but is hands-free once secured.
-
Not Plopping: Easier because you just let your hair dry naturally, but it might take longer.
Who Should Try Plopping?
Plopping is ideal for people with curly or wavy hair who want more definition and less frizz. It works best for:
-
Type 2 (Wavy) and Type 3 (Curly) hair.
-
Those who experience frizz or uneven curl formation.
-
People looking to reduce drying time without using heat.
Who Might Prefer Not Plopping?
Some people find that plopping doesn’t suit their hair type or styling routine. You might prefer not plopping if:
-
Your curls become too tight or shrink too much with plopping.
-
You have straight or slightly wavy hair that doesn’t require curl enhancement.
-
You prefer the natural fall of your curls without extra volume at the roots.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
If You Choose to Plop:
✅ Use a T-shirt or microfiber towel, not a rough cotton towel.
✅ Apply lightweight products to avoid buildup.
✅ Don’t leave it on too long (more than 60 minutes can cause scalp dampness).
If You Choose Not to Plop:
✅ Avoid drying with a regular towel, which can cause frizz.
✅ Use a diffuser if you need to speed up drying.
✅ Scrunch your curls gently while drying to enhance definition.
Which Method is Better?
The choice between plopping vs. not plopping depends on your hair type, styling preference, and time constraints.
-
If you want well-defined curls with less frizz and faster drying time, plopping is a great choice.
-
If you prefer a more natural curl pattern and don’t mind longer drying times, skipping plopping might work better for you.
Experiment with both techniques to see which one suits your hair best!