Slugging Skincare: The Expert Guide to Dewy, Hydrated Skin
Unlock ultra-hydrated, radiant skin with slugging—learn the trend, benefits, dos and don'ts, and tried-and-true routines.
What Is Slugging?
Slugging is a popular skincare technique that involves applying a thick, occlusive layer—usually petroleum jelly or a petrolatum-based ointment—over your moisturizer as the last step in your nighttime routine. The method earns its quirky name from the glossy, ‘slug-like’ sheen it imparts to the skin, leaving you looking a little gooey but ultimately more hydrated and luminous.
While slugging may seem like a social media trend, it has deep roots, with generations using petroleum jelly to lock in moisture, heal irritated skin, and bolster skin’s resilience against harsh weather. Dermatologists and beauty experts increasingly recommend slugging for its benefits in restoring a compromised skin barrier, especially for dry, sensitive, or stressed complexions.
Unlike other moisturizing steps, slugging does not hydrate directly—instead, its occlusive nature prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL), seals in the active ingredients beneath, and supports barrier repair overnight.
Why Is Slugging So Popular?
Slugging’s popularity can largely be attributed to dramatic before-and-after testimonials and its ability to rescue dry, dull, or irritated skin. The method rose to viral status thanks to TikTok and Reddit threads, where users showed off dewier, fresher, plumper skin after just one night. However, what makes slugging stand out is that it doesn’t require expensive, hard-to-find products or complicated routines: all you really need is a good occlusive and your regular hydrating products.
Historically, slugging was commonplace in Black and Brown communities for decades, serving as a simple, effective solution for winter dryness and skin protection. Today, dermatologists and estheticians have refined the routine and clarified who benefits most.
How Does Slugging Work?
Slugging works by creating a physical seal on the skin with an occlusive agent. This barrier:
- Prevents water loss: Stops moisture from evaporating overnight, maximizing hydration.
- Seals in actives: Forces serums and moisturizers to penetrate more deeply.
- Supports barrier repair: Helps heal and restore stressed or compromised skin barriers.
Note: Occlusives themselves aren’t hydrating; they simply hold water in the skin and prevent damage caused by dehydration.
Who Should—and Shouldn’t—Try Slugging?
- DRY or DEHYDRATED SKIN: Slugging works wonders, especially in winter or air-conditioned environments.
- SENSITIVE or IRRITATED SKIN: Great for barrier repair following over-exfoliation, sun exposure, or product reactions.
- MATURE SKIN: Helps maintain plumpness and elasticity.
- NORMAL SKIN: Slugging once or twice weekly can boost dewiness without clogging pores.
- OILY or ACNE-PRONE SKIN: Use with caution; occlusive products (like petroleum jelly) may trap oil and dirt, sometimes worsening breakouts. Choose non-comedogenic ointments if trying this routine.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Slug Your Skin
Ready to try slugging? Here’s the expert-approved sequence:
- Cleanse: Wash away makeup, sunscreen, and dirt. Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Exfoliate if you don’t have sensitive skin, but avoid abrasive scrubs right before slugging.
- Serums/Actives: Apply your treatment products—think hydrating serums, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid. Avoid exfoliating acids or retinol right before slugging.
- Moisturizer: Layer on a nourishing moisturizer (cream or lotion). The occlusive will seal this in.
- Occlusive Layer: Gently warm a small amount of petroleum jelly, ointment, or a petrolatum-based cream between your hands, then spread evenly over your face. Let it settle for a few minutes before bedtime.
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Tip: Protect your pillow by laying down a clean towel and pulling back your hair with a soft headband. Expect a sticky, shiny finish!
Choosing the Right Products For Slugging
Not all occlusives are created equal. The best products for slugging are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. Here is a comparison of common slugging products:
| Product | Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vaseline Healing Jelly | Petrolatum | Universal, affordable, hypoallergenic | Can feel greasy, may trigger breakouts in oily skin |
| CeraVe Healing Ointment | Petrolatum + Ceramides | Barrier support, ideal for sensitive skin | Similar greasiness, not for daytime use |
| Aquaphor | Petrolatum + Lanolin | Moisturizes, helps healing wounds | Contains lanolin, may irritate some users |
| Pure Squalane Oil | Oil (not petrolatum) | Non-comedogenic, lightweight | Less occlusive, may not be enough for very dry skin |
- Always use: Hydrating serums or light moisturizers under the occlusive layer, especially those with humectants (like glycerin or hyaluronic acid).
- Avoid: Highly comedogenic oils (coconut oil), heavy creams with fragrances, or actives like retinoids and acids that may increase sensitivity.
How Often Should You Slug?
- Dry or Mature Skin: Nightly or every other night.
- Combination or Oily Skin: 1–3 times per week (not consecutive nights).
- Reactive or Sensitive Skin: As needed, after irritant exposure.
Listen to your skin—if you notice clogged pores or increased breakouts, reduce the frequency.
Common Mistakes and Myths About Slugging
- Myth: Slugging is hydrating on its own. The occlusive layer only prevents water loss—it does not add moisture by itself.
- Myth: You need expensive products. Classic Vaseline or drugstore ointments are effective and dermatologist-approved.
- Mistake: Using active acids or retinoids before slugging. These can make your skin more sensitive and the occlusive may trap irritants, increasing the risk of reaction.
- Mistake: Slugging on dirty or makeup-laden skin. Always cleanse thoroughly first.
- Myth: Slugging works for everyone. Results vary—oily, acne-prone, or easily congested skin may not benefit and could worsen.
Expert Advice: When & Why To Slug
- If your skin feels tight, flaky, or reactive, slugging can help rebalance and restore your barrier.
- Use slugging following irritant exposure (windburn, sunburn, overdoing acids).
- Avoid slugging if you’re actively fighting breakouts or tend toward congestion.
Dermatologists suggest slugging for acute episodes rather than everyday use for most people.
FAQs on Slugging Skincare
Q: Is slugging safe for acne-prone skin?
A: Use caution. Petrolatum is technically non-comedogenic, but the occlusive layer can trap oil and debris, sometimes worsening acne. Rosacea and eczema-prone skin may benefit, but those with regular breakouts should patch test first.
Q: Can you use slugging with retinol or acids?
A: It is generally recommended to avoid retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs on slugging nights, as occlusion can intensify their irritation potential.
Q: What’s the best time to slug?
A: Always at night—slugging works best on clean, dry, makeup-free skin and gives the skin all night to repair.
Q: Will slugging stain my pillow?
A: Potentially yes, especially with petrolatum. Protect your bedding with a towel or pillow protector at night.
Q: Can you slug other parts of your body?
A: Absolutely! Slugging is effective for heels, elbows, lips, and hands. It can soften and heal dry skin anywhere.
Summary Table: Slugging Skincare At a Glance
| Step | Product Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cleanse | Gentle facial cleanser | Removes makeup and dirt |
| 2. Serum | Hydrating serum | Boosts moisture, delivers actives |
| 3. Moisturize | Cream or lotion | Adds hydration |
| 4. Occlude | Petrolatum/jelly/ointment | Locks in moisture, protects barrier |
Real Experiences: What to Expect
- Immediate Benefits: Softer, dewier skin in the morning; less irritation.
- Long-Term Results: More resilient skin barrier, reduced dryness, improved comfort in harsh climates.
- Possible Downsides: Temporary greasiness, risk of clogged pores if not suited to your skin type.
Final Thoughts and Additional Tips
- Slugging can be a game changer for dry, sensitive, or aging skin—ensure all base layers are well-formulated and suited to your needs.
- Always patch test new occlusives and tailor frequency to your skin’s response.
- Combine slugging with a barrier-strengthening daily regimen for optimal, sustainable results.
- Don’t be swayed by hype alone; your skin’s needs are unique.
Glossary
- Occlusive: A thick moisturizing agent that creates a barrier to prevent water loss.
- Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL): The process where water evaporates from your skin.
- Skin Barrier: The outer protective layer of skin that retains moisture and shields against irritants.
- Comedogenic: Likely to cause blocked pores and acne.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can slugging cure eczema or dermatitis?
A: Slugging can soothe and shield skin with eczema or dermatitis, supporting repair. Always consult your dermatologist for severe cases.
Q: Should you wash off the occlusive in the morning?
A: Yes—start your morning routine with a gentle cleanse to remove residue before applying daytime products or makeup.
References
- https://www.vaseline.com/us/en/articles/skin-care-basics/how-slugging-can-make-your-skin-smoother-and-brighter.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/dermatology/what-is-slugging
- https://www.katesomerville.com/blogs/news/what-is-slugging-3-steps-to-repair-skin
- https://www.cerave.com/skin-smarts/skincare-tips-advice/what-is-slugging
- https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-is-slugging-for-your-skin
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/slugging
- https://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/skincare-advice/skin-care-how-tos/what-is-slugging-for-skin.html
- https://www.tru-skin.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-petrolatum-and-slugging-debunking-myths-and-revealing-benefits
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