Struggling With Limp, Frizzy Curls? Plopping Your Hair May Be the Answer

Ditch the bath towel and rethink how you dry your natural hair. Learn how to plop hair in just seven easy steps for frizz-free curl definition.

By Leann Garofolo & Powered By L’Oreal Professional Products Division

Update Date: 30 Sep 2024

What Is Hair Plopping?

Plopping is a hair-drying technique that involves gathering all of your hair at the top of your head and wrapping it in a T-shirt instead of a towel. Traditional bathroom towels can cause frizz by roughing up your hair’s cuticle while the T-shirt's smooth texture protects your curls.

Who Should Try Hair Plopping?

Plopping is especially recommended for those with curl types three through eight on the Mizani texture key:

• Type 3: Wavy hair with distinct S-shaped curves
• Type 4: Defined curls with mixed patterns (loops, spirals, ringlets, or corkscrews)
• Type 5: Tighter corkscrew curls forming into coils
• Type 6: Medium, compact coils close to the scalp
• Type 7: Tightly coiled, springy coils
• Type 8: Super coiled hair that resembles zig-zags

Plopping can enhance texture, as demonstrated on TikTok.

How Long Should You Plop Your Hair For?

The duration for plopping varies from person to person, ranging from a few minutes to overnight, depending on the dryness of your hair.

Can you plop your hair overnight?

Yes, but if your hair tends to dry quickly, prolonged plopping could lead to dryness or brittleness. Use caution based on your hair's porosity.

What Hair Products Do You Need for Plopping?

Recommended products for plopping include:

Mizani True Textures Perfect Coil Oil Gel

Mizani True Textures Curl Define Pudding

Mizani Styling Foam Wrap

How To Plop Hair in 7 Easy Steps

1. Wash your hair: Use a moisturizing shampoo like Mizani’s Moisture Fusion Moisture Rich Shampoo.
2. Apply your styling products: Use a leave-in conditioner, followed by your favorite styling product. The Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner works well.
3. Prepare your T-shirt: Lay it down with the collar facing you.
4. Gather your curls: Flip your head upside down and place your curls in the center of the T-shirt.
5. Wrap the T-shirt: Fold the shirt over your head and tie it around the back.
6. Allow hair to dry: Keep the T-shirt on for your preferred drying time.
7. Unwrap and style your curls: Once dry, shake your curls free and style as desired.