Slugging for Hair: TikTok Trend or Total Game-Changer?
You’ve probably seen the term “slugging” all over your For You page—first as a skincare hack involving petroleum jelly and now, it’s making waves in the world of hair care. But does hair slugging actually live up to the hype? Or is it just another fleeting TikTok trend?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Hair Slugging?
Hair slugging is a simple overnight hair treatment that promises softer, shinier, and healthier strands by sealing in moisture—especially for those dealing with dryness, frizz, or heat damage.
How It Works:
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Coat your hair—mainly the ends—with a rich oil or leave-in treatment.
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Wrap it up using a silk scarf, satin bonnet, old sock, or even a shower cap to lock everything in.
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Sleep on it, and wash or style as usual in the morning.
Think of it as a deep-conditioning sleep mask—for your hair.
Why Hair Slugging Works
Hair slugging draws inspiration from skincare, where sealing in active ingredients helps improve their effectiveness. When applied to hair, this method helps to:
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Prevent moisture loss
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Smooth frizz and flyaways
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Shield hair from environmental damage
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Improve shine, softness, and manageability
This is especially beneficial for curly, colour-treated, bleached, or dry hair, which tends to be more porous and prone to breakage.
What to Use for Hair Slugging
The beauty of slugging is that you can customize it based on your hair type and needs. Here are some popular (and effective) products to try:
Oils:
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Argan oil – Lightweight, great for shine and softness
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Jojoba oil – Closely mimics scalp’s natural sebum
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Coconut oil – Rich and nourishing, ideal for thick or textured hair
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Rosemary oil – May stimulate growth and soothe the scalp
Leave-In Products:
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Moisturising leave-in conditioners
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Repair masks with proteins or ceramides
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Silicone-free serums or balms
Tip: Focus on your ends—where the hair is oldest and most prone to damage. If you have fine or oily hair, avoid the roots altogether to prevent build-up.
Tools:
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Silk or satin scarf or bonnet – Minimises friction and locks in moisture
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Shower cap or old sock – A budget-friendly way to wrap and protect overnight
Slugging Tips & Cautions
Hair slugging can be transformative, but only when done correctly. Keep these things in mind:
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Start once a week and see how your hair responds.
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Avoid heavy oils if your hair is fine or prone to buildup.
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Always wash or rinse out in the morning if using thick oils or masks.
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Clarify periodically to prevent residue from weighing down your strands.
Like any beauty ritual, it’s about balance, not overdoing it.
The Verdict: Trend or Game-Changer?
Hair slugging might’ve started as a viral TikTok trend, but it has serious staying power. It offers real results—hydration, shine, protection, and softness—especially for those whose hair is thirsty, tired, or over-styled.
At Clecíus Beauty, we’re all about rituals that actually work. Hair slugging is one of those rare social media trends that isn’t just aesthetic—it’s effective. If you’re looking for a low-effort, high-reward way to elevate your hair care routine, slugging might just be your new secret weapon.