A Comprehensive Guide to TikTok’s Viral “Bowl Method”: How To Do It (& if It Works)

There are two types of curly girls: those who embrace their curls, and those who will do anything to smooth theirs out. I’ve always lived proudly in the former category, and have made my way through curl-specific haircuts, a whole spectrum of products, and more.

As I write this, my hair has NEVER looked better — and I owe it all to one viral washing method that initially gave me pause…until I tried it. 

The Bowl Method does involve dunking your hair in a bowl of water, yes. But it’s also to thank for amazingly bouncy, lively curls. Let’s get into it:

What is the Bowl Method & who is it good for?

The Bowl Method is a styling approach that hydrates curls to their fullest extent, giving them the bounce they’re meant to have. 

Everyone with waves, curls, and coils are invited to this party, but hair types 2, 3, and 4 will benefit from this washing approach. 

Not sure about your hair type? I learned mine through Prose’s online consultation (I’m a type 3B). If you’re curious about your own, you can take their short quiz for free.

Let me teach you how to try it

First, go ahead and take a shower like normal. I have to plug Prose’s custom shampoo and conditioner because I swear they are part of what makes this process work so well, but you can use whatever you like. (BTW, Prose takes the water hardness in your area into account, so your products are the first line of defense against lifeless curls).

To bring out the best of your curls:

• Set a large bowl of water on the counter in front of you.
• Detangle your hair with a brush that’s best-suited to your hair type and apply curl-defining cream.
• Then lean forward and dunk your hair into the water. 

Once your hair is saturated, you’ll lift your head slightly and scrunch the water out back into the bowl. Repeat this process 3-4 times. Midway through, brush your hair again, keeping your head over the bowl of water, to distribute the products. Before drying, I apply mousse or gel. 

When I have plenty of time allotted, I let my hair dry entirely while I’m upside-down. I usually dig into a podcast while I wait. On more rushed mornings, I use a diffuser with my head upside-down to get things going, and then I’m on my way.

If the products in your hair are giving it a slight crunch as it dries, resist the urge to brush it out. I suggest adding a little hair oil to smooth and further hydrate.

Does it actually work?

Before vs. after trying the Bowl Method and Prose!

I wouldn’t be here if it didn’t! The Bowl Method isn’t a precise science — in fact, there’s plenty of wiggle room for individual hair-washers to experiment with what works best for their specific hair type and schedule. 

But I find it works perfectly every time, especially with my arsenal of Prose haircare products that are made just for my 3B hair. I even get 50% off + free shipping on my first order as a new subscriber!

The takeaways: the Bowl Method is pretty un-“bowl”-ievable

I’m committed to the dip, scrunch, dip, scrunch life. It costs zero dollars to give this method a try, and my curls have never been as full-bodied and buoyant as they are now. 

If you already have a brush, conditioner, and curl cream that are working for you, you have all you need to jump in on this viral styling sensation!