A Quick Guide to the Slugging Skincare Trend

Curious about the new slugging skincare trend that’s been all over social media lately? Not sure whether slugging is something you should try? You’ve come to the right place! Our quick guide gives you all the details about this skincare regimen: what it is, who it’s for, how to do it, and the best products to use.

What is Slugging and What Does It Do?

Slugging is the process of applying a very thick cream like Vaseline, Aquaphor, or Cerave over your face after you’ve finished your nightly skincare regime. 

A heavy product like those referenced above are known as occlusives. These types of products lock moisture in, keeping your face hydrated all night and locking in the products you previously applied! Slugging can also help repair and improve your skin barrier, which is a huge plus. 

Who is Slugging For?

Most people can reap the benefits of slugging, depending on their skin type, but if you find that you have dry skin, eczema, or dull skin, you might especially benefit from a nightly slugging skincare regimen. If you have very oily skin or are acne-prone, though, you may want to steer clear of slugging.

The Slugging Process

You can think of slugging as an easy last step to add at the end of your nightly beauty routine:

1. Cleanse your face like you normally would.
2. Add any serums, treatments, moisturizers, etc.
3. Finally, apply your slugging product. You will want to wait 20-30 minutes before getting into bed – otherwise, you may get the product on your pillowcase.

Best Products for Slugging

The best products for slugging will have pure petroleum with minimal other ingredients. Vaseline is a great product to try for slugging. Petroleum-based products that include ceramides and hyaluronic acid are also good for slugging.

Bottom line

As you can see, adding slugging skincare to your beauty routine is simply a matter of applying one final product, like Vaseline, to your face before bed to keep moisture locked in.

If you stick with it, you should begin to see your skin become more hydrated and supple. But again, slugging isn’t for everyone, and that’s OK. So if you start to break out or experience excessive oiliness, you may want to stop slugging until you speak with your dermatologist.