Brittleness and breakage are a thing of the past thanks to TikTok’s latest viral trend: nail slugging. Yep, it’s 100% a thing and I’m here to make a case for it. Before you start scratching your head in confusion, nail slugging kind of piggybacked off another viral trend you may be familiar with—skincare slugging. Each follows the same idea basically. Skincare slugging involves combatting dry skin by slathering your skin with a super heavy cream-based moisturizer or petroleum-based jelly to lock in the hydration from your skincare routine.
Nail slugging is similar in the way that it also aims to combat dry skin on the hands and repair dry or damaged cuticles. Does it work? Well according to a derm, yes. If you’re interested in learning more and why experts on TikTok are even making a case for this new nail-enhancing trend, keep reading below.
Similar to the viral skin slugging trend, nail slugging involves locking in serious hydration to the cuticles, nails, and hands. I know this might sound like a totally unnecessary step in your bodycare routine, but hear me out. Charles Puza, MD, a dermatologist on Tiktok, even made a case for it because it can strengthen your nails and helps protect them from damage. As someone who regularly gets gel X extensions, my ears definitely perked up when I heard that. Nail extensions are so cute, but can wreak complete havoc on your natural nails if you don’t let them breathe once in a while or take care of them properly. Take it from me—I’ve had to stop getting nail extensions for weeks at a time due to the breakage and damage they’ve caused. Ugh.
If you’re in the same boat, there’s a hole of inspiration for you to go down on nail slugging TikTok. There are plenty of different ways to slug and you can always put your own spin on it. Do what works for you! Personally, I’ve been following this full slugging routine on OPI’s official website. For this routine, you’ll start by exfoliating your hands with your choice of body scrub. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to select a gentle option. You can apply it on damp skin and gently massage it into the hands for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Then, you’ll want to apply cuticle oil to each of your cuticles and apply a hydrating hand cream and massage that in, too. Finally, you’ll lock it all in with a heavier balm-like hydrator like Aquaphor or Vaseline. It’s simple, effective, and will keep your hands so soft and hydrated. If you really want to go the extra mile, do this before bed and put on some overnight moisture gloves ($13) for a full spa-like experience. If you’re unsure which products to use for slugging, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered below.