Slugging in Skincare: Benefits, How to Do It, and Best Products

Skincare trends are always evolving, with new methods promising amazing results. One of the most popular skincare trends now is known as “slugging”, an overnight routine that involves sealing in moisture to give your skin a healthy, glowing look. It’s been popular for a long time, especially in Korean beauty, but it has recently become more well-known in the West. Let’s explore what slugging is, how it works, and the best products to use.

Also Read: Korean Skincare: The Secret to Glass Skin

What Is Slugging in Skincare?

Slugging refers to the practice of applying an occlusive agent—usually petroleum jelly or a similar product—as the final step in your nighttime routine. As a result, this creates a barrier on the skin, which seals in moisture and enhances the effects of other skincare products. Consequently, your skin wakes up feeling more hydrated and supple. The term “slugging” likely comes from the thick, shiny layer left on the skin, resembling the trail left by a slug.

How Does Slugging Work?

Essentially, the core idea behind slugging is to combat transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which occurs when moisture evaporates from your skin. By applying an occlusive like petroleum jelly, you form a protective layer that locks in moisture. In turn, this helps your skin absorb the products applied underneath, thereby enhancing their effectiveness.

The Science Behind Occlusives

Occlusives are ingredients that act as a barrier on your skin, preventing water loss. Petroleum jelly is the most well-known occlusive, capable of reducing up to 99% of TEWL. Additionally, other occlusives include lanolin, mineral oil, and plant-based oils like squalane. These ingredients are particularly beneficial for people with dry, dehydrated, or damaged skin barriers.

Key Benefits of Slugging in Skincare

If you’re wondering why slugging has become so popular, it’s because of the myriad of skin benefits it offers. Here are the top reasons you might want to incorporate slugging into your skincare routine:

1. Deep Hydration

Firstly, slugging is particularly effective at providing deep, long-lasting hydration. It locks in the moisture from your other products, allowing your skin to remain hydrated overnight. This is especially beneficial for people dealing with dry or flaky skin.

2. Strengthened Skin Barrier

Moreover, a healthy skin barrier is crucial for protecting your skin from environmental stressors and irritants. Slugging strengthens the skin barrier by preventing moisture loss and providing a shield against external damage.

3. Heals Damaged or Cracked Skin

Additionally, for those with extremely dry or cracked skin, slugging offers healing benefits. The occlusive layer promotes faster recovery, allowing your skin to repair itself overnight without further damage.

4. Soothes Irritation

If your skin is irritated from overuse of active ingredients like retinoids or exfoliants, slugging can provide relief. By reducing irritation and locking in moisture, your skin will look calmer and feel less inflamed the next morning.

5. Enhances Skin Glow

Lastly, who doesn’t love glowing skin? By keeping your skin hydrated and plump, slugging helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and gives your complexion a radiant, youthful glow.

How to Perform Slugging in Your Skincare Routine

Performing slugging is straightforward, but for optimal results, it’s important to follow the correct steps:

1. Cleanse Your Face

To start, begin with a clean face. Use a mild cleanser to eliminate dirt, oil, or makeup. This ensures your skin is ready to absorb the products applied afterward.

2. Apply Hydrating Serums or Moisturizers

Next, after cleansing, apply a hydrating serum or moisturizer. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides work well, as they draw moisture into the skin. Let these products absorb fully before moving on to the next step.

Also Read: Top 5 Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Deep Hydration

3. Layer on an Occlusive

Once your serum or moisturizer has absorbed, apply a generous amount of your occlusive product. Petroleum jelly, like Vaseline, is a widely favored option. Make sure to cover your entire face with a thin but noticeable layer to ensure proper coverage.

4. Leave It Overnight

Ideally, the best time to slug is overnight, as this allows your skin to benefit from uninterrupted moisture retention. When you wake up, your skin should feel softer, more hydrated, and visibly plump.

5. Rinse in the Morning

Finally, in the morning, gently cleanse your face to remove any remaining occlusive product. Then, follow up with your usual daytime skincare routine, including sunscreen if you plan to go outside.

Is Slugging Right for You?

Although slugging can work wonders for many, it’s not suitable for everyone. Whether slugging is right for you depends on your skin type and individual skincare needs.

Best for Dry and Sensitive Skin

Slugging is particularly beneficial for people with dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin. It helps those who struggle with water loss, skin barrier damage, and irritation.

Not Ideal for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, slugging may not be the most suitable choice. Occlusive products can trap oil and debris in your pores, potentially leading to breakouts. If you still want to try slugging, consider using a lighter occlusive, like squalane oil, which is less likely to clog pores.

Best Products for Slugging

Choosing the right product is essential for effective slugging. Here are some top options to consider:

1. Vaseline Petroleum Jelly

A classic, affordable option, Vaseline is 100% petroleum jelly and is one of the most effective occlusives for preventing water loss.

2. CeraVe Healing Ointment

CeraVe Healing Ointment combines petroleum jelly with ceramides, which help restore the skin barrier. This makes it a great option for those who need both moisture retention and barrier repair.

3. Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Similar to Vaseline but with added ingredients like mineral oil and lanolin, Aquaphor is another excellent product for slugging. It also has healing properties for extremely dry or cracked skin.

4. Squalane Oil

For those with oily or acne-prone skin, squalane oil is a lightweight occlusive that won’t clog pores. It’s plant-based, non-comedogenic, and an excellent alternative to petroleum-based products.

Potential Downsides of Slugging in Skincare

While slugging offers many benefits, it’s important to consider potential downsides:

1. Pore Clogging

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, slugging could clog your pores, leading to breakouts. To avoid this, choose a lighter occlusive or patch test before fully incorporating slugging into your routine.

2. Not Suitable for Warm Climates

Additionally, slugging can feel heavy in warm or humid climates. If you live in such an environment, consider slugging only on specific areas, like around the eyes or lips.

Takeaway

Slugging is a simple yet effective skincare method to deeply hydrate, protect the skin barrier, and achieve a youthful glow. It’s especially beneficial for people with dry or sensitive skin, but others can adapt the technique to suit their needs. By following the right steps and choosing appropriate products, slugging can transform your nighttime skincare routine and help you wake up to hydrated, glowing skin.

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