“It’s the process of layering humectant products that hydrate around the skin first and then sealing it in.”
In this post
What is slugging method?
Simply put, slugging refers to the process of sealing your skin with an occlusive agent, often petrolatum-based, overnight. Though it’s been popularized as a face treatment on TikTok to aid with hydration, this little beauty trick works on other parts of the body as well – from lips to ankles.
What is the purpose of slugging?
The purpose of slugging is to rebuild your moisture barrier by locking in your oils and moisturizer with a thin layer of petrolatum — a chemical substance used as a lubricating agent and found in Vaseline. Done right before bed, this allows your skincare products to fully absorb while you get your beauty sleep.
What does slugging look like?
Put simply, slugging is the practice of smearing a layer of a heavy occlusive, such as petroleum jelly, on the face at night before going to bed. While messy – yes, it will make your face look slimy and yes, it will get all over your pillow – the science behind it is pretty solid.
Does slugging really help?
Dermatologists like Elaine Kung agree that slugging really does work for smooth, rejuvenated skin — and this “trend” has actually been around for ages. “The idea of layering a thick occlusive emollient as the last step of a nighttime routine is nothing new,” Kung says.
When should you do slugging?
Slugging is a skin care technique where you slather on a heavy-duty occlusive (typically Vaseline or another petrolatum product) as the last step of your nighttime routine to prevent transepidermal water loss.
How often should you slug your skin?
How Often Should You Slug Your Skin? It is recommended that you slug your skin once or twice a week, depending on the condition of your skin. Those with extremely dry skin can slug two to three days in a row and give it a break for two to three days before repeating the process.
How long does slugging last?
In order to notice results, you need to slug consistently for four to six weeks. Slugging cannot repair your skin or your skin’s appearance overnight.
Why is it called slugging?
Though the origin is not certain, the term slugging is often said to have originated as a reference to slugs (the animal) due to the slimy appearance that results from applying a thick layer of moisturizer to one’s face.
How do you sleep when slugging?
Sleeping While Slugging
- Use a pillow protector.
- Try an old pillowcase that you don’t care about as much.
- Place an old towel on top of your pillow.
- Avoid over-applying petroleum jelly to your face.
What is best for slugging?
Shop the Best Occlusives for Slugging
- Aquaphor Healing Ointment.
- HydroPeptide Soothing Balm.
- CeraVe Healing Ointment Skin Protectant.
- Skinfix Remedy+ 911 Ointment.
- Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly.
- EltaMD Moisturizer.
- The INKEY List Rosehip Nourishing Night Oil.
- SkinCeuticals Hydra Balm Moisturizing Ointment.
Does slugging reduce wrinkles?
Slugging is also a great option for those dealing with age-related skin issues, says Dr. Gohara (who says that’s why she does it, personally). “With aging comes decreased barrier repair, decreased hydration, saggy skin, and more obvious wrinkles,” she explains.
What can I use for a slugging?
Slugging involves applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly, often Vaseline, to the face overnight to prevent moisture loss.
What to do the morning after slugging?
If you want to try out the trend, follow the steps below for a full routine.
- Cleanse Your Skin. As with any skin care routine, it’s important to begin by washing your face.
- Smooth On a Serum. Slugging is all about layering on the hydration.
- Apply Moisturizer.
- Layer On Petroleum Jelly.
- Wake Up and Rinse.
Can you use Vaseline for slugging?
Many people have used slugging to obtain plump skin at home, because it only requires one product. All you need is a thick, ointment-based moisturizer like Vaseline, Aquaphor, CeraVe Healing Ointment or Cetaphil Healing Ointment. Chapped lips are common.
Is slugging good for mature skin?
Dr. Kim recommends slugging only for people with dry skin or mature skin, since as we age, our skin starts to lose its ability to retain moisture. “This is certainly not for anyone with acne-prone, oily skin or combination skin,” says Dr. Kim.
Is Vaseline or Aquaphor better for slugging?
The Best Products for Slugging:
Invoke your inner Marilyn Monroe and seal in your skin with good ol’ Vaseline. We’ve already mentioned it above, but one of the best options for slugging is Aquaphor, which is especially good if you want something that’s a tad lighter than Vaseline.
Are Vaseline and Aquaphor the same thing?
Vaseline contains 100 percent petroleum jelly, while Aquaphor includes other ingredients like mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin, and bisabolol. Both can be used on lips and skin, as wound healers, and as makeup removers or cuticle softeners.
Will slugging break me out?
Slugging can benefit dry or sensitized skin, but those who are prone to breakouts should proceed with caution. “Although petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic (will not cause breakouts), it does lock in whatever is underneath the skin — including natural oils made by naturally oily skin,” Dr. Love explains.
Where did slugging come from?
Slugging is a K- Beauty trend that originated in South Korea, according to Savvides. It involves coating your face in an occlusive petrolatum product (most commonly, Vaseline) to “trap in” moisture and prevent trans epidermal water loss, a top contributor to dry skin.
Are slugs good for your skin?
Slugging also helps soothe irritated patches and works wonders for people with sensitive skin. “I think slugging is a great skin-care technique in the wintertime and especially good for those with dry or sensitive skin,” Dr. Marchbein says.