How to Plop Your Hair

Plopping is a technique that lets you dry your hair while keeping your curls and waves looking smooth and natural. 5-Minute Crafts will show you how to plop correctly as well as what you need to do beforehand.

How to prepare your hair for plopping

1. Shampoo and condition the hair.

The first thing you need to do is cleanse your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. Then, use a light conditioner.

2. Detangle your hair.

You can do this while in your shower or right afterward by using your hands — this allows your waves to clump together. Don’t use a comb.

3. Use air-dry cream.

Air-dry cream will help define your natural curl pattern and minimize freeze. You’re now ready to plop.

How to plop correctly

Step 1

Lay a T-shirt flat on a bed or table.

Step 2

Gather your curls into a high ponytail and place your head near the center of the T-shirt.

Step 3

Roll the top of the T-shirt above the eyebrows so your eyes don’t get covered.

Step 4

Fold the bottom of the T-shirt up to your head.

Step 5

Cover your head by folding the T-shirt again.

Step 6

Tuck the T-shirt at the sides of your head.

Step 7

Grab the sleeves of both sides of the T-shirt.

Step 8

Tie it into a single knot at the back.

What the plop should look like

If you’ve followed all the previous steps, your plop should be ready and look like the picture above. Leave it for 30 minutes to 2 hours on your head.

The results this method will give you

After waiting the recommended time, just release the cast by scrunching. Let the hair dry for the rest of the day and you’ll have amazingly shiny, natural-looking curls.