Tying curly hair in a towel, often called "plopping," is a technique to gently dry and define curls, minimizing frizz. It involves wrapping your hair in a microfiber towel or a soft cotton t-shirt to absorb excess water and encourage curl formation. Microfiber towels are preferred over traditional towels because they are gentler on curls and absorb more water without causing friction, which can lead to frizz.
The Plopping Technique: A Step-by-Step Guide
-
Preparation: Lay your chosen towel (microfiber or cotton t-shirt) flat on a surface. Ensure it's large enough to accommodate your hair completely.
-
Upturning: Flip your head upside down, letting your curls fall onto the center of the towel.
-
Wrapping: Gently gather your hair, starting from the ends, and begin to wrap it within the towel. Think of it like wrapping a present – neatly and securely.
-
Securing: Once all your hair is gathered, bring the bottom corners of the towel together. Tie them securely at the top of your head, at the nape of your neck. You can use a knot, but many find that twisting the ends and then tying them provides a more secure wrap.
-
Drying: Leave the towel on your head for 15-30 minutes, or until your hair is mostly dry. This allows your curls to set and helps maintain their shape.
Towel Choices for Curly Hair
-
Microfiber towels: These are highly recommended for their absorbency and gentleness. They minimize friction, reducing frizz. Examples such as AQUIS fast-dry towels are available.
-
Cotton t-shirts: A soft, old t-shirt is an excellent alternative to microfiber towels. The material is gentle on hair and helps to prevent frizz.
-
Avoid: Traditional terrycloth towels, as their rough texture can disrupt curl patterns and cause frizz.
Additional Tips for Success
- Apply your leave-in conditioner or curl cream before plopping for enhanced moisture and definition.
- Don't scrub your hair vigorously when wrapping it; be gentle to maintain curl integrity.
- Experiment to find the plopping time that works best for your hair type and length. Some prefer shorter plopping times for tighter curls.
- After removing the towel, gently detangle your curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to avoid breakage.
Remember, plopping is just one technique to help style curly hair. You can experiment to discover the methods that best suit your hair type and preferences.
