The process of slugging the hair follows the same fundamental steps as slugging the skin. First, spread a substantial amount of conditioner or oil throughout the head, then wrap or cover with a sock for the night. The increased heat generated by the compression of the wrapping material helps the product enter the epidermis of the scalp and the hair cuticle.
This method of keeping hair hydrated is not a novel practice, even though it is currently all over the internet. This method of keeping hair hydrated has been handed down through the generations in several different cultures; nevertheless, it has always been known by a different name.
It is common practice for black women to use hot oil therapy on their hair to infuse their strands with moisture. When the oil is heated, it is easier to permeate the hair shaft, resulting in thicker, fuller strands. In addition, for thousands of years, people from cultures located in South Asia have been lathering their hair with oil. Initially, people used to call this method “hair oiling.”
So, what exactly is meant by “hair oiling”? It is a traditional practice in Ayurvedic medicine in which a mixture of plant-based oils, such as coconut, castor, or grapeseed oil, is applied to the hair from the root to the tip of the strands while being massaged thoroughly. After that, you let it sit for the night and wash it out the following morning, just like you would with hair slugging.
Does Hair Slugging Work?
The consensus of professionals is yes. The idea of slugging one’s hair has been prevalent in many cultures for years, particularly in Asian and black cultures. Because hydrating is the primary goal of slugging, this technique works exceptionally well for dry and damaged hair. Experts claim that hair slugging can make the strands more resilient to breakage, less frizzy, and generally shinier than they would be if you didn’t do it.
What Is the Procedure for Slugging the Hair?
To begin, you will need to ensure that your hair is clean and just washed before you begin. After that, you should take the hair serum or oil of your choice and thoroughly coat the root to the tip of the hair. Alternatively, if you are concerned about product buildup at the scalp, you should coat the hair from the midshaft to the tips.
Be thorough in your coverage of the tips, and massage the product with your fingers to ensure that it is distributed evenly. In addition, you can massage the oil into your scalp to encourage new hair growth.
The next step is to take a sock, wrap it over the ends of your hair, and then tie it in a ponytail clip for the night. You also can use a silk wrap or scarf, which will protect your pillow from becoming soaked in oil and prevent it from being pulled and snagged.
In conclusion, the essential step you must take afterward is washing your hair carefully. If you don’t do that, you could end up with clogged pores and substance buildup, making it difficult to style your hair.
After thoroughly washing your hair, you are free to style it however you see suitable. Your hair should have a silky texture and a buoyant, moisturized feel. Keeping the preceding information in mind – even though it may appear self-explanatory – the actions detailed below provide a failsafe method for properly completing the hair-slugging routine.
- Apply a rich, emollient oil to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way out to the ends.
- After that, use a hair mask over the top of the oil to seal in the moisture.
- You should wrap your hair in protective gear, such as a silky turban or a fluffy sock.
- Use a scrunchie or a hair tie to keep it in place.
- After waking the following morning, remove the hair mask and oil by rinsing your hair as you normally would.
Which Hair Types Are Best for Hair Slugging?
Because not all types of hair are made equal, some types of hair will not benefit from using this procedure. Since curly hair is naturally drier than straight hair, it is best to hydrate it deeply using techniques such as slugging to maximize the advantages.
According to the findings of several experts, individuals whose hair is coarse, brittle, wavy, or dry may benefit from using stronger oils with hair masks and treatments even more regularly. Once a week, individuals with fine or thin strands can use mild oil on the ends of their hair.
How Effective Is Hair Slugging?
According to most assessments, it earns a rating of a somewhat fat tick. However, there are several factors that you should keep in mind. Regular treatment with lightweight oils is great, but if you’re using heavier creams and masks, twice per week is enough to maintain the hair’s health and appearance.
In this particular scenario, you should always make sure that you wash out everything to prevent the accumulation of products and the possibility of outbreaks. Except in the instance where your hair is really dry, in which situation you can skip washing it altogether; however, this is not the case if you wear a mask.
Experts also stress that slugging is only a small part of the overall picture regarding hair care and that even though it might smoothen frizz and avoid future breakage, it is not a cure-all. Some people believe that the best method for preventing split tips is to treat your strands with care and get them trimmed every eight weeks.
Who Can Perform Hair Slugging?
Slugging your hair can be a pleasurable experience for anyone with any hair. However, the materials used and the application procedure might differ depending on your hair type. If you have finer hair, it is best to choose a lighter oil rather than a thicker hair mask to prevent the hair from becoming bogged down by the mask.
Conclusion
If your hair has a more substantial texture, you may want a more intensive oil or conditioning therapy to soak the strands fully. Ensure the product is thoroughly rinsed the next day to avoid a buildup. In the end, most people notice their hair is happier and more hydrated after slugging.