Your scalp deserves as much attention as your skinduring the winter - and scalp slugging may be the answer. With the cold air, central heating, and harsh weather can cause havoc on our hair and skin.

It seems as if people are starting to take interest in scalp health, as according to Cosmetics Business, a leading professional beauty outlet, interest in scalp care continues to surge, with UK data revealing 24 million Google searches and 12 million TikTok views for “scalp treatments” so far this year.

According to one expert, scalp slugging can be a game-changer, delivering intense hydration by locking in essential moisture - helping to support a healthier scalp and promote stronger, more resilient hair.

The process is essentially a deep conditioning hair treatment, that involves applying a thick layer of oil, serum, or hair mask to the hair and scalp, then covering it with a protective layer like a silk scarf, shower cap, or even a sock overnight.

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Faye Purcell, Head of R&D atQ+A said cold weather can leave your scalp "itchy, flaky, and dry" and said conditions like dandruff or scalp eczema "may worsen" which means an unhealthy scalp can also contribute to clogged follicles, thinning, and breakage. This is why an extra but of TLC will work wonders in the winter.

• Apply a nourishing oil or mask to the scalp before bed. Look for products that contain oils like jojoba, argan, or a targeted scalp treatment


• Using fingertips or a scalp massaging tool, gently work in circular motions to stimulate circulation and help the product penetrate better


• Cover hair with a silk scarf or turban towel wrap to lock in much needed moisture overnight and enhance absorption


• Wash out thoroughly in the morning with a gentle shampoo

• Strengthening the hair at the root


• Protecting against breakage and environmental damage


• Stimulating circulation to support healthy hair growth


• Dry or flaky scalps


• Itchy or irritated skin

Faye added: "Targeted treatments like serums, hydrating tonics, and gentle exfoliants can also be beneficial as these help restore balance and support your scalp barrier. Look for key ingredients such as Salicylic Acid to clear build-up, Prebiotics to restore balance, and hydrating oils to deliver lightweight moisture."

Using a pre-wash treatment such as a scalp oil can help prevent dryness and flakiness, as well as boosting circulation, reducing breakage and frizz, and creating a healthy environment for hair growth. However Faye advises those with oily scalps or conditions like dermatitis to start slowly with scalp slugging, as it may clog pores or worsen flakiness if not thoroughly washed out. She also recommends doing a patch test first, especially when using essential oil blends.

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