It seems that every day there is a new TikTok trend, especially for skincare and makeup. Many celebrities and influencers on the app showcase their skincare routines, leading to the formation of new trends. One such skincare practice that has gained popularity over the years is slugging.
Slugging is a hydrating technique that involves slathering your face with an occlusive product like petroleum jelly overnight to prevent moisture loss. While it became known as slugging in recent years, it's a practice that has existed for centuries in various cultures.
Slugging is performed after your regular evening skincare routine, finishing it off with a layer of Vaseline or any other occlusive product 30 minutes before bed.
This skincare technique is usually done at night to lock in moisture and allow it to penetrate the skin more deeply while you sleep. As a result, the skin looks fresh, soft, nourished, and hydrated when you rinse the product off in the morning.
Experts recommend slugging for four to six weeks before expecting results, as it cannot instantly help dry skin or repair it overnight.
Slugging is a more affordable hydrating technique compared to pricey face masks and moisturizers. The simplicity of slugging lies in using your existing skincare products -- whether serums, moisturizers, or oils -- followed by a thin layer of Vaseline, Aquaphor, or any other occlusive product on top.
The amount of ointment you apply matters; only a pea-sized portion is needed. It's also important to cleanse your skin before applying any of your products and the occlusive.
While slugging is hailed for its benefits on dry skin, those with oily and acne-prone skin should be cautious when attempting it.
Dermaguru, a licensed dermatologist on TikTok, does not recommend slugging for acne-prone skin. Those with acne might experience more breakouts when using occlusives or attempting slugging.
Additionally, it's not recommended for individuals dealing with eczema or easily irritated skin.
Dermaguru also cautions against combining slugging with active retinol, as it can lead to irritation.
Any occlusive will work for slugging. Some popular ones are Vaseline Jelly Original, Aquaphor Advanced Therapy Healing Ointment, and CeraVe Healing Ointment.