Micro plopping is similar to plopping, in that the results are the same, but it is a different technique. This technique uses a microfiber towel to squeeze out excess water and hair products that have been applied. This keeps your hair from getting weighed down by excess products and helps your hair dry more quickly.
Micro plopping is similar to plopping in that the results are the same, but it is a different technique. In this technique, a microfibre towel is used to knead out excess water and applied hair products. This prevents your hair from being weighed down by excess products and helps your hair dry faster.
The Benefits of the Hair Plopping Method
First and foremost, hair plopping takes your blow-dryer out of the equation, so your delicate strands aren't subjected to damaging heat, which can lead to breakage and split ends. But the benefits go beyond the healthy perks of air-drying.
Plopping is a game-changing method for loose curls and waves that tend to get easily weighed down. For these curl types, the weight of water and moisture in hair will pull the curl pattern down before it's had a chance to dry, causing the resulting waves or curls to remain in a loose, stretched state.
Sometimes, the weight of the water-filled hair piled on top of your scalp can cause flat roots – particularly if you plop for too long. Because of this, some curlies prefer to micro-plop.
Some ladies plop their hair for 10 to 20 minutes and then finish by blow-drying with a diffuser. Some ladies also plop their hair before bed and leave the towel on to dry overnight.
Note: I don't like to plop more than 15-20 minutes because it does reduce volume if you plop for too long. I have noticed after plopping for too long and too often a wear mark in the back of my head. This might not happen to everyone but it is something to be aware of.
Hair can definitely be plopped overnight. Just take note of how your hair handles being slept on when wet. If you find that your hair dries pretty fast, you may not want to keep it plopped for the length of time that you're asleep.
To help keep curls bouncy and in the best condition, apply a gentle marula oil for a glossy, frizz-free mane. Sleeping in a plop overnight is a great solution for anyone with curly or wavy hair. It will help define the curls overnight without overdrying."
Plopping really helps define the curl pattern and formation. Always scrunch the hair just before putting it in the plop. This is to get as much definition and curl into the hair as possible.
Give your curls at least 20 minutes to set for best results. If you have more time, leave the t-shirt on overnight. By compressing the curls, the secured fabric can help them dry into curly hair that has gorgeous body and shape—without risking frizzy hair.
Silly name aside, plopping is a super-simple, heat-free drying technique that protects your curly, wavy or coily hair pattern, reducing frizz and flyaways. All you need to do is: lower your hair down on to a towel in a way that enhances your hair's natural pattern. You then wrap it to draw out excess water.
It's important to use a microfiber towel or a t-shirt when hair plopping to prevent frizz. Traditional hair wrapping stretches out curls and the terry cloth creates frizz. The wrap you choose will soak up moisture and excess conditioner, so the material you go with can make or break your plopped curls.
There is some debate about whether you should use styling product before or after plopping. In general, if you are looking for more curl definition, apply product on soaking wet hair, before you plop. If you are more interested in getting volume, then plop first, product second.
But since your hair is unlikely to fully dry while it's plopped, this means you'll be sleeping with a damp scalp all night, and damp environments are a great breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Basically, yes, it's possible to get a fungal infection if you plop your hair overnight.
Hair plopping is a great tool for women with curls and natural waves, because it leaves the curls intact and doesn't stretch them out. If you have very fine hair, you can also experience the benefits of plopping, because it is gentle on your follicles and can lead to less frizz.
After you've plopped for your desired time you can finish drying any remaining moisture. “Use a diffuser on low heat, or simply let your hair air dry,” says Le. “Whatever you do, don't touch your hair much as it will create frizz and disturb that natural curl pattern you've created.”
NaturallyCurly community has coined the pineapple technique to protect your curls from frizz and tangles while you sleep. To pineapple, gather hair into a high ponytail and slip a scrunchie over the base, just enough so it loosely holds hair without creating tension.
Pro tip: For best results, make sure to keep the plop loose enough that your curls aren't crushed, but tight enough that it doesn't fall off your head, Emilio notes.
Tilt your head so that the tip of your head just touches the middle of your T-shirt or pillowcase. Slowly squish your hair downwards into the fabric towards the crown. Massey says to think of it like you're closing up a spring or the motion of playing the accordion.