The Secret to Perfectly Defined Curls? Hair Slugging
- Paula Morgan
- Feb 4
- 5 min read
Looking for a way to deeply hydrate and define your curls overnight? If you haven't heard of hair slugging yet, it might be the game-changer your routine needs!
Hair care enthusiasts on social media have likely seen videos of people wrapping their hair in socks and bonnets overnight to wake up with smooth, bouncy curls. Maybe you've already tested out this creative (and slightly amusing) hack and are now a dedicated "hair slugging" fan.
If you have less time, follow the "pre-pooing" techniques you'll find in our other blog for curly hair here.
What is Hair Slugging?
The term "slugging," borrowed from skincare, refers to the slick, hydrating layer of product applied to the hair or skin. In hair slugging, wrapping the hair in a sock or scarf before bed enhances this effect. The technique revolves around moisturizing the strands with a layer of oil or conditioner, then sealing in that moisture by wrapping it overnight.
Hair slugging is particularly beneficial for those with dry or frizzy hair, including curly, coily, and kinky textures. If you struggle with managing textured hair, this method infuses strands with moisture and nutrients, making them more elastic, hydrated, and easier to style in the morning.
Read on to discover how to do hair slugging, when to use it, and additional tips to enhance curl definition.
The Basics of Hair Slugging
To try hair slugging, all you need is a high-quality oil, serum, or leave-in conditioner and a wrapping material such as a sock, scarf, bonnet, shower cap, or even plastic wrap. A scrunchie helps secure the wrap while you sleep. The process is incredibly simple and begins with freshly washed hair.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair for Slugging
For best results, start with clean hair. While a balanced scalp benefits from washing every three to four days, those with oilier scalps may need to shampoo daily, while drier scalps may require washing only once a week. A thorough cleanse is essential to remove product buildup, which can impact hair health. Incorporating scalp scrubs and detox treatments into your routine can further enhance your hair’s condition.
Recommended Products:
Step 2: Apply a Moisturizing Product
Hair slugging usually involves oils or serums, but if oils feel too heavy, a quality leave-in conditioner works well. The drier and frizzier your hair, the richer the product you can use. Apply generously, working the product through from roots to ends. If your scalp is naturally oily, start at mid-length and avoid the roots to prevent buildup.
Recommended Products:
Step 3: Wrap Your Hair Overnight
Many people prefer using a sock for hair slugging because it reduces friction while adding bounce and texture. However, bonnets, shower caps, or plastic wrap work just as well. If using a sock, twist your slicked-up ends gently and slide them inside before securing with a scrunchie. A bonnet or cap can cover the hairline for additional scalp benefits, acting as a barrier to lock in moisture overnight.
Step 4: Rinse and Lock in Moisture
In the morning, rinse your hair with lukewarm water to remove excess product. Afterward, a quick burst of cold water helps to seal the cuticle and lock in hydration.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Curls
Hair slugging is fantastic for defining and moisturizing curls, but a few extra steps can optimize your results:
Leaving the product in overnight offers deeper hydration than a one-hour treatment.
Fully rinsing out the product is crucial to avoid buildup and clogged pores.
Maintain your hair’s texture with a curl-friendly routine, such as co-washing, to keep strands moisturized.
Once you have the technique down, maintain your texture with a curl-safe routine.
Use detox shampoos occasionally like SOLU or DETOXIFYING Shampoo to remove excess product residue and maintain scalp health.
Use the Right Products
Curls thrive on hydration, so using the right products is key to keeping them bouncy and frizz-free. Look for formulas with extra moisture and curl-enhancing ingredients.
Recommended Styling Products:
Application Tips for Maximum Definition
Section Your Hair: Avoid uneven application by dividing hair into sections and working the product through each part.
Scrunch Your Curls: Use the SOTC (Scrunch Out the Crunch) method—cup and squeeze curls after applying product to create shape and definition.
Avoid Touching Your Hair: Once styled, limit contact to prevent frizz and maintain curl integrity.
Advanced Techniques for Ultimate Curl Definition
While hair slugging is a game-changer on its own, incorporating additional techniques can take your curls to the next level:
Layer Products Properly: Apply lighter products first (gels, mousses) followed by heavier products (oils) to balance hydration and hold.
Try Finger Coiling: Twist small sections of damp hair around your finger to enhance natural curl patterns.
Use a Diffuser: This attachment helps distribute airflow evenly, preserving curl shape and reducing frizz.
Pineapple Your Hair Overnight: Secure hair in a high, loose ponytail with a silk scrunchie to maintain curl definition while you sleep.
Is Hair Slugging Only for Curly Hair?
Not at all! While it provides exceptional benefits to curly and textured hair, slugging can also improve moisture levels and reduce frizz in straight hair. The technique may be adjusted slightly depending on hair type, but the results remain effective across different textures.
Recommended Oil for Hair Slugging:
For thin hair, lightweight oils and hair masks are ideal to prevent weighing it down, whereas thick hair benefits more from heavy oils and deep conditioning treatments for full saturation. OI Oil is a lightweight, versatile product that enhances shine, detangles, and reduces frizz. It's a multi-purpose oil that provides shine, detangles, and fights frizz.
When is the Best Time to Try Hair Slugging?
Hair slugging is beneficial year-round, but certain seasons can make it even more valuable:
Summer: Helps restore moisture lost due to sun exposure and heat.
Winter: Combat frizz and dryness caused by cold weather and indoor heating.
Those with thick, very dry hair may find that slugging every few days keeps their hair at its best, while others may benefit from a weekly treatment.
Ready to Try Hair Slugging?
Hair slugging isn’t just a passing social media trend—it’s a deeply nourishing hair care technique that can transform your curls. Enjoy hydrated, healthy, and defined hair year-round. If you’re unsure where to start, book an appointment with a Davines expert to explore in-salon moisturizing treatments tailored to your hair’s needs.
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