Key Takeaways
- Skincare slugging means sealing your nighttime routine with a thin occlusive layer to help lock in hydration.
- It may be especially useful for dry-feeling, dehydrated, or temporarily stressed-looking skin when used thoughtfully.
- Slugging works best as part of a clean, simple routine and should be approached carefully if your skin is oily or breakout-prone.
- A little product goes a long way; the goal is a light barrier, not a heavy mask.
If you’ve spent any time at all in the beauty space lately, you’ve likely come across the term skincare slugging. This skincare trend has taken social media by storm, with beauty editors, creators, and everyday skincare lovers continuing to talk about it for its ability to deliver deep hydration and a radiant glow. But what does slugging your face mean, and what does slugging do for skin? Let’s dive into the what, why, and how of this glossy skincare ritual.
Slugging is still a popular nighttime skincare technique, especially for people looking for a simple way to support a softer, more hydrated-looking complexion without adding a complicated new step.
What Is Skincare Slugging?
Slugging refers to the practice of sealing your skin with an occlusive layer, typically petroleum jelly like Vaseline, as the final step in your nighttime routine. The term “slugging” comes from the shiny, slick appearance your face takes on after applying the product, reminiscent of a slug’s glistening trail.
While the name might sound off-putting or quirky, the science behind it is solid! By creating a physical barrier on the skin, slugging locks in moisture and prevents trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), allowing the products underneath to work more effectively while keeping your skin intensely hydrated overnight.
What Does Slugging Your Face Mean?
In practical terms, skincare slugging means applying your usual skincare (cleanser, toner, serums, and moisturizer) and then finishing with a thin layer of an occlusive agent, such as petroleum jelly. This final step forms a protective barrier that traps moisture and active ingredients close to your skin, amplifying their effects.
Unlike many skincare trends that involve high-cost tools or complex steps, slugging is refreshingly straightforward. It works particularly well for anyone who experiences dryness, dehydration, or compromised-feeling skin, though even oily and combination skin types can benefit from slugging with the right approach.
What Does Slugging Do For Your Skin?
Let’s get into the heart of the matter. What are the benefits of skincare slugging, and why is this trend sticking?
Locks in Moisture
One of the most immediate and noticeable benefits of slugging is its ability to increase skin hydration dramatically. By preventing moisture from evaporating overnight, your skin wakes up feeling softer, plumper, and more supple.
Strengthens the Skin Barrier
Slugging supports the skin’s natural barrier function. This is essential for protecting against environmental aggressors and maintaining long-term skin health. If you’re dealing with irritation, flakiness, or redness, skincare slugging can help your skin feel more comfortable and supported.
Boosts the Efficacy of Other Products
The occlusive layer helps retain active ingredients from serums and moisturizers applied underneath. This means ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and niacinamide have more time to work their magic overnight.
Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines
Well-hydrated skin naturally appears more youthful. By improving your skin’s moisture levels and elasticity, slugging can soften the look of fine lines and give your complexion a smoother texture.
Aids in Recovery
If you’ve gone too hard with exfoliants or your skin is reacting to a new product, skincare slugging can provide a calming, restorative effect. It’s an excellent reset button for skin that’s been “through it”.
How to Slug Your Face Properly
Slugging is simple, but to maximize its benefits, it’s important to get your steps right:
- Clean Your Face: Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and oil. It’s important to start with a clean base to avoid trapping bacteria under the occlusive layer or leaving behind buildup that may contribute to irritation and redness.
- Layer Your Hydrating Products: Apply toner, essence, serum, and moisturizer as usual. This is your chance to deliver hydration and active ingredients to the skin.
- Seal It In: Apply a thin, even layer of your chosen occlusive. The most common choice is petroleum jelly, but you can also use alternatives like Aquaphor or CeraVe Healing Ointment. Ensure the product is non-comedogenic and suitable for your skin type.
- Go to Bed: Leave the occlusive on overnight and wash it off in the morning with a gentle cleanser. Prepare to wake up with soft, hydrated, glowing skin!
Why Should or Shouldn’t I Try Slugging?
Skincare slugging can benefit almost anyone, but it’s especially helpful for people with dry or dehydrated skin, sensitive or irritated-feeling skin, compromised-feeling skin barriers, or skin that tends to feel extra dry or uncomfortable. However, those with oily or breakout-prone skin should approach slugging more cautiously. While petroleum jelly itself is non-comedogenic, slugging can trap dead skin cells and sebum (an oily substance that keeps your skin from drying out), potentially leading to breakouts if you’re not careful.
If you’re breakout-prone but still want to try this trend, start slowly (perhaps once a week) and see how your skin responds.
You should skip skincare slugging if you’re using strong exfoliants or retinoids that could irritate your skin when trapped under an occlusive. It may also not be for you if you’re dealing with active breakouts or living in a hot, humid climate where your skin already feels congested. In these cases, consult your dermatologist before incorporating slugging into your routine.
Slugging Myths: Debunked
Myth #1: Slugging Causes Breakouts
This is not necessarily true. Petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. Breakouts usually occur because the skin wasn’t properly cleaned beforehand or due to individual sensitivities.
Myth #2: You Only Need to Slug in the Winter
This is false. While slugging is great for cold, dry climates, it can be beneficial year-round for those with chronic dryness or skin that feels temporarily compromised.
Myth #3: More Products = Better Results
More isn’t always better. A little, you’ll find, goes a long way. Applying a thick coat isn’t necessary and might even make you feel greasy. A thin layer does the trick!
Skincare Slugging FAQs
How often should you slug your face?
For many people, slugging one to three nights per week is enough to help skin feel softer and more hydrated. If your skin is very dry, you may prefer to use it more often, while those with oily or combination skin may want to keep it as an occasional reset.
Can you slug over serums?
Yes, slugging is typically done after hydrating products like toner, serum, and moisturizer. Keep the routine simple and avoid layering strong exfoliants or retinoids underneath an occlusive unless your dermatologist recommends it.
Is slugging good for oily skin?
It can be, but oily and combination skin types should use a very thin layer and try slugging less often at first. Consider applying the occlusive only to dry-feeling areas rather than the entire face.
A Simple Skincare Trick
In a beauty world often overrun by fads, skincare slugging holds its own because it’s rooted in science and simplicity. It’s a ritual that doesn’t require a hefty investment or a cabinet full of products. In fact, you probably have some petroleum jelly lying around in the depths of your bathroom. Whether your skin needs a hydration boost or you’re recovering from irritation, slugging offers a gentle, effective way to restore and maintain a healthy glow.
Next time you’re winding down for the night, consider giving your skin the TLC it deserves with a nice slugging. For an opulent-but-simple nighttime routine, start with a clean base, layer your favorite hydration-focused products, and let a light occlusive finish seal it in.
