Everything You Need to Know About Skin Slugging

Introduction: What Is Skin Slugging? And why is it so popular?

Skin slugging has gained significant popularity on social media, especially on TikTok and Instagram, where skincare enthusiasts and beauty influencers vouch for its transformative effects. But despite its viral status, many people still misunderstand what slugging actually is.

First off, slugging has nothing to do with slugs or anything slimy! Instead, it’s a skincare technique that involves applying a thick layer of an occlusive agent, such as petroleum jelly, as the final step in your nighttime routine. This method creates a protective barrier over the skin, preventing moisture loss and enhancing hydration.

Though it may seem like a new trend, slugging has deep roots in Korean beauty (K-beauty) practices. Dermatologists and skincare experts have long recommended occlusive products for dry, sensitive, or compromised skin. The resurgence of slugging can be credited to social media, where users share dramatic before-and-after results, making it a must-try skincare hack.

So why is everyone obsessed with slugging? The main appeal lies in its promise of plumper, deeply hydrated skin by morning. It’s particularly beneficial for those with dry or damaged skin barriers. However, as with any trend, slugging isn’t for everyone—oily and acne-prone skin types need to approach it with caution.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into how slugging works, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and the best ways to incorporate it into your skincare routine. Stay tuned to find out if slugging is the missing step in your quest for glowing, healthy skin!

The Science Behind Slugging: How Does It Work?

Slugging is more than just a viral skincare trend—it’s a science-backed method that enhances hydration and supports the skin barrier. At the core of this technique are occlusive agents, which play a crucial role in preventing moisture loss and promoting skin repair. But how does slugging actually work? Let’s break it down.

What are occlusive agents, and why are they essential?

Occlusive agents are skincare ingredients that form a protective layer over the skin to trap moisture and prevent dehydration. Unlike humectants, which draw water into the skin, and emollients, which soften and smooth it, occlusives work by sealing everything in.

Common occlusive agents include:

• Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) is the most popular choice for slugging due to its ability to create an almost impermeable barrier.
• Lanolin—a natural alternative derived from sheep’s wool, known for its intense moisturizing properties.
• Beeswax—often found in natural skincare products, providing occlusive benefits while being less greasy than petroleum-based products.
• Mineral oil and silicones—used in many skincare formulations to lock in moisture effectively.

By applying an occlusive as the last step of a skincare routine, slugging maximizes hydration by preventing moisture from escaping while you sleep.

Understanding TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss)

One of the biggest reasons slugging is so effective is its ability to reduce Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)—the process by which moisture naturally evaporates from the skin. TEWL is a normal function of the skin, but when excessive, it leads to dryness, irritation, and a compromised skin barrier.

Factors that contribute to high TEWL include:

• Harsh weather conditions (cold, wind, or dry climates).
• Overexfoliation or the use of strong active ingredients, such as retinoids and acids, can be detrimental.
• Skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis.

By applying an occlusive, slugging creates a physical shield over the skin, significantly reducing TEWL. This process allows the skin to retain hydration, maintain its protective barrier, and function optimally.

How Occlusives Promote Skin Repair

Aside from preventing moisture loss, slugging also supports the skin’s natural repair process. When the skin remains hydrated, it can:

• Heal faster from irritation, dryness, or minor wounds.
• Strengthen its barrier function, reducing sensitivity to environmental aggressors.
• Enhance the efficacy of other skincare ingredients, as well-hydrated skin absorbs nutrients more effectively.

Dermatologists often recommend occlusives for individuals with compromised skin barriers, such as those experiencing eczema, post-procedure recovery, or extreme dryness. However, even those with normal skin can benefit from slugging, especially in colder months or after using strong active ingredients.

In summary, the science behind slugging is simple yet powerful: it prevents TEWL, locks in hydration, and promotes skin barrier repair, leading to softer, healthier skin. Whether you’re battling dryness or just want an extra boost of moisture, understanding how slugging works can help you decide if it’s right for your skincare routine.

Benefits of Slugging: Why Should You Try It?

Slugging has gained massive popularity for a reason—it delivers intense hydration and helps restore the skin barrier. Whether you struggle with dryness, irritation, or environmental damage, this simple skincare technique can transform your skin. Here’s why you should consider adding slugging to your routine.

#1. Deep Hydration for Dry and Dehydrated Skin

One of the biggest benefits of slugging is its ability to provide long-lasting hydration. By sealing in moisture, occlusive agents prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is the evaporation of water from the skin.

• Slugging creates a protective barrier over the skin, ensuring hydration stays locked in.
• It strengthens the skin’s natural lipid barrier, making it more resilient against dryness and external irritants.
• This method is especially useful for dry and dehydrated skin types, as well as those who live in cold or dry climates.

If your skin often feels tight, flaky, or rough, slugging can help restore softness and suppleness overnight.

#2. Enhances the absorption of skincare products.

Slugging doesn’t just hydrate—it also boosts the effectiveness of other skincare products. Applying an occlusive layer over your serums and moisturizers enhances their effectiveness.

• Trap active ingredients in the skin, allowing them to penetrate more effectively.
• Prolong the effects of hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
• Prevent evaporation of beneficial skincare components, ensuring maximum absorption.

To get the best results, apply your hydrating serums and moisturizers first, then seal everything in with an occlusive. This method ensures your skin gets the full benefits of your skincare routine.

#3. Repairs and soothes damaged skin.

Slugging is an excellent choice for those with compromised skin barriers. It creates a healing environment for skin that is damaged, irritated, or inflamed.

• Reducing redness, peeling, and irritation caused by over-exfoliation or harsh skincare treatments.
• Helping conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, which often involve an impaired moisture barrier.
• Supporting skin repair after using strong actives like retinoids or acids.

By keeping skin hydrated and protected, slugging allows it to recover more quickly and stay healthier in the long run.

#4. Protects against environmental stressors.

Beyond hydration and repair, slugging also shields your skin from harmful external factors. Occlusive agents act as a barrier against:

• Pollutants and toxins in the environment that can cause oxidative stress.
• • Bacteria and irritants may cause breakouts or infections.
• Harsh weather conditions, such as cold winds and dry indoor heating, which strip moisture from the skin.

This protective layer helps keep your skin resilient, balanced, and less prone to damage from everyday exposure to environmental stressors.

Is Slugging Right for You? Skin Types That Benefit from Slugging

While slugging is a powerful skincare technique, it’s not a universally applicable solution. Some skin types may suffer from breakouts or excessive oiliness, while others benefit greatly from the extra moisture and protection. Understanding whether slugging suits your skin type is key to getting the best results.

Best Suited For: Dry, Dehydrated, or Sensitive Skin

Slugging is most effective for those struggling with dryness, dehydration, or a compromised skin barrier. If your skin often feels tight, flaky, or irritated, using an occlusive can help restore and maintain moisture levels.

Why it works:

• Prevents water loss by sealing in hydration and keeping skin plump.
• Strengthens the skin barrier, reducing sensitivity and irritation.
• • It provides relief for conditions like eczema and dermatitis, which often involve excessive dryness.

Slugging can revolutionize your skincare routine if you often encounter dry patches, rough texture, or irritation.

Who Should Avoid It? Acne-Prone or Excessively Oily Skin

While slugging provides significant benefits for dry skin, individuals with acne-prone or extremely oily skin may need to exercise caution. Occlusives like petroleum jelly can trap excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, potentially leading to clogged pores and breakouts.

Reasons to avoid slugging if you have acne-prone skin:

• May worsen breakouts by creating a sealed environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive.
• Can feel too heavy on already oily skin, leading to congestion.
• Might trigger fungal acne since thick occlusives can feed the yeast responsible for flare-ups.

If your skin is naturally oily and prone to breakouts, traditional slugging might not be the best choice. Instead, you may benefit from lightweight moisturizers or non-comedogenic occlusive alternatives.

How to Modify Slugging for Combination or Acne-Prone Skin

If you have combination skin or occasional breakouts, you don’t have to completely avoid slugging—you can modify the technique to suit your skin’s needs.

Tips for acne-prone or combination skin:

• Slug only on dry areas—Instead of applying an occlusive all over, target dry spots like the cheeks while avoiding oily areas like the T-zone.
• Use a lighter occlusive—Swap petroleum jelly for non-comedogenic alternatives like squalane or CeraVe Healing Ointment, which provide similar benefits without being as heavy.
• Slug less frequently—Instead of nightly slugging, try it once or twice a week to see how your skin reacts.
• Always apply on clean skin—make sure you’ve properly cleansed and exfoliated your skin before slugging to avoid clogged pores.

Who Benefits Most from Modified Slugging?

• Combination skin types that experience both dry patches and oily zones.
• People using strong active ingredients (like retinoids or acids) who need extra hydration without overwhelming their skin.
• Those with occasional dehydration who want a moisture boost without long-term use of occlusives.

By tailoring slugging to your specific skin type, you can maximize hydration and barrier repair without the risk of breakouts or excessive oiliness. Whether you use it daily or sparingly, finding the right balance will help you enjoy the benefits of slugging while keeping your skin clear and healthy.

Potential Drawbacks of Slugging

While slugging offers deep hydration and barrier protection, it’s not a perfect solution for everyone. For some skin types, it can lead to unwanted side effects such as breakouts, clogged pores, or an overly greasy feel. Here are the key drawbacks to consider before incorporating slugging into your skincare routine.

This product can cause breakouts in oily or acne-prone skin.

One of the biggest concerns with slugging is its potential to trigger breakouts, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Since occlusives like petroleum jelly create a seal over the skin, they can trap excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells beneath the surface.

Why this happens:

• Occlusives don’t allow the skin to breathe, creating an environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive.
• If pores are already clogged, slugging can worsen blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne.
• Sebum (natural skin oil) gets trapped, leading to increased oiliness and congestion.

How to prevent breakouts:

• Avoid slugging over active breakouts or very oily areas.
• Use non-comedogenic occlusives, such as CeraVe Healing Ointment, instead of thick petroleum jelly.
• Slug sparingly, limiting it to once or twice a week to assess how your skin reacts.

If you have acne-prone skin, slugging may not be the best option—or it may need significant modifications to prevent flare-ups.

#2. May Lead to Clogged Pores

Slugging can trap other skincare products underneath it, which isn’t always beneficial. If you use strong active ingredients like retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs before putting on an occlusive, it could irritate your skin, clog your pores, or even cause an over-exfoliation reaction.

Why this happens:

• Actives like retinoids and exfoliating acids work by increasing skin cell turnover. Trapping them under an occlusive can cause excessive penetration, leading to redness, peeling, and irritation.
• Some active ingredients mix poorly with heavy occlusives, causing congestion instead of absorption.
• The skin needs to naturally shed dead cells, and slugging may impede this process, leading to dullness or buildup.

How to prevent clogged pores:

• Do not slug immediately after applying strong actives like tretinoin, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid.
• Use slugging as a recovery treatment, particularly on nights when you’re giving your skin a break from exfoliation.
• Ensure skin is properly cleansed before slugging to prevent dirt and oil from getting trapped.

If you’re using exfoliating products regularly, slugging may require adjustments to avoid overloading your skin.

#3. Can Feel Greasy and Heavy on the Skin

One of the most common complaints about slugging is its thick, greasy texture, which can feel uncomfortable—especially in hot and humid climates. Since occlusives form a heavy layer on the skin, they can make it feel sticky, sweaty, and suffocating.

Why this happens:

• Occlusive products like petroleum jelly do not absorb into the skin—they sit on top, creating a thick film.
• In warm weather, this layer can feel even heavier, making the skin overheat and sweat more.
• The greasy texture can transfer onto pillowcases and clothing, making it messy for some people.

How to avoid the greasy feel:

• Apply a thin layer instead of a thick coating—more product doesn’t mean better results.
• Opt for lighter occlusives like squalane or dimethicone, which still lock in moisture without feeling heavy.
• Try slugging only on dry areas, such as the cheeks, while skipping the T-zone.

If you live in a warm, humid environment or dislike the sensation of heavy skincare products, slugging may not be the most comfortable option.

How to Properly Do Skin Slugging: A Step-by-Step Guide

Slugging is a simple yet effective skincare technique that helps lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier. However, doing it correctly is crucial to avoid clogged pores or irritation. Follow this step-by-step guide to get the most out of slugging and wake up with soft, hydrated skin.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Face

Before slugging, it’s essential to thoroughly cleanse your skin to remove any impurities. Occlusives create a seal over the skin, and if you apply them over dirt, makeup, or sunscreen, they can trap bacteria and debris, leading to breakouts.

How to properly cleanse before slugging:

• Use a gentle cleanser suited for your skin type.
• If wearing makeup or SPF, double cleanse with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser.
• Pat your face dry with a soft towel—do not rub, as the friction can cause irritation.

Starting with a clean slate ensures that your skincare products absorb effectively and that your skin remains free from congestion.

Step 2: Apply Hydrating Skincare First

Before applying an occlusive, layer on hydrating skincare to maximize moisture retention. Since slugging locks in whatever is underneath, this step ensures your skin is deeply nourished.

Best products to use before slugging:

✔ Hydrating toners with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
✔ Lightweight serums that boost moisture (e.g., niacinamide, peptides, or ceramides).
We recommend moisturizers that provide extra hydration for very dry skin.

What to avoid before slugging:

✖ Retinoids (like tretinoin or retinol) – They increase cell turnover and can cause irritation under an occlusive.
✖ Exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs, or PHAs) – Slugging over acids can lead to excessive product penetration, causing sensitivity and redness.
✖ Acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid—These may become too potent when sealed under an occlusive.

Stick to gentle, hydrating ingredients to get the best results from slugging without irritation.

Step 3: Apply a Thin Layer of Occlusive

Now, it’s time for the most important step—sealing in hydration with an occlusive layer. The key here is not to overdo it; a thin application is all you need to keep your skin protected.

Best occlusive products for slugging:

• Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)—the most popular and affordable choice, perfect for deep moisture retention.
• Aquaphor—Contains additional healing ingredients like panthenol and glycerin.
• CeraVe Healing Ointment—A lightweight alternative with ceramides for added barrier support.

How much to use:

• A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face.
• If applying to specific dry areas, use a thin layer on those spots only.
• For extremely dry skin, you can apply a slightly thicker layer, but avoid making your face overly greasy.

Applying too much occlusive can feel uncomfortable and increase the risk of clogged pores, so less is more!

Step 4: Let It Work Overnight

Slugging works best as part of your nighttime skincare routine since the occlusive needs time to seal in hydration and help the skin repair itself.

Why slugging is done at night:

• Overnight, your skin naturally repairs itself, and slugging helps enhance this process.
• You won’t have to worry about greasy residue interfering with makeup or sunscreen during the day.
• It prevents moisture loss from nighttime dehydration, especially in dry climates or during winter.

Simply apply the occlusive before bed and let your skin soak in its benefits while you sleep!

Step 5: Wash Your Face Gently in the Morning

When you wake up, your skin will feel soft and deeply hydrated, but it’s important to cleanse properly to remove any residue.

How to remove occlusives without stripping your skin:

• Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to avoid drying out your skin.
• If needed, double cleanse with micellar water or an oil-based cleanser to break down any remaining occlusive layer.
• Pat dry and follow up with your usual morning skincare routine, including moisturizer and sunscreen.

By cleansing gently, you’ll remove excess product without disrupting the moisture barrier, keeping your skin balanced and healthy.

How Often Should You Slug? Finding the Right Frequency

Slugging, while beneficial for hydration and skin barrier repair, can lose its effectiveness if used too frequently or insufficiently. Finding the right frequency depends on your skin type, climate, and overall skincare routine. Here’s how to determine how often you should slug for the best results.

Can Slugging Be Done Every Night?

For some skin types, daily slugging can be beneficial, while for others, it may lead to clogged pores or excess oil buildup. Whether you should slug every night depends on your skin’s individual needs.

Who Can Benefit from Nightly Slugging?

✔ Very dry or dehydrated skin—If your skin consistently feels tight, rough, or flaky, daily slugging can help maintain moisture.
✔ Damaged or compromised skin barriers—Those with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or irritation from strong actives (e.g., retinoids) may benefit from more frequent slugging.
✔ Cold or dry climates—If you live in a place with harsh winter conditions or low humidity, nightly slugging can prevent excessive moisture loss.

For these skin types, applying an occlusive every night can help restore and maintain deep hydration.

Who Should Avoid Nightly Slugging?

✖ Oily or acne-prone skin—Slugging too often can trap excess oil and bacteria, increasing the risk of breakouts.
Those who frequently use exfoliating acids or retinoids may experience product buildup, irritation, or clogged pores.
People in hot, humid climates may find daily slugging too greasy and uncomfortable in environments with high humidity.

If your skin leans toward oily or acne-prone, slugging a few times a week or only on dry areas may be a better approach.

Why Listening to Your Skin Is the Key to Proper Slugging

Rather than sticking to a strict schedule, pay attention to how your skin responds to slugging. If your skin feels soft, plump, and balanced, you’re likely slugging at the right frequency. However, if you notice breakouts, excessive oiliness, or irritation, you may need to reduce how often you slug.

How to Adjust Your Slugging Routine

• For dry or sensitive skin → Try slugging 3–4 times a week and increase if needed.
• For combination skin, slug only on dry areas instead of the entire face.
• For acne-prone or oily skin, limit slugging to once a week or only during periods of skin barrier recovery.
• For seasonal changes, increase slugging in winter when skin is drier, and reduce it in the summer when it’s more humid.

Customizing your slugging routine based on your skin’s needs is the best approach, rather than following a generic routine. By monitoring how your skin reacts, you can find the perfect balance to keep your complexion hydrated, healthy, and glowing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Slugging

Slugging is a simple yet highly effective skincare technique, but doing it incorrectly can lead to unwanted side effects like clogged pores, breakouts, or excessive oiliness. To ensure you get the best results, avoid these common mistakes when incorporating slugging into your routine.

Applying Occlusives Without Cleansing Properly

One of the biggest mistakes people make when slugging is applying an occlusive without properly cleansing their skin first. Since slugging creates a seal over the skin, any dirt, bacteria, or leftover makeup trapped underneath can lead to breakouts and congestion.

Why proper cleansing matters:

• Prevents trapped dirt and bacteria, reducing the risk of acne and irritation.
• • It ensures the effective absorption of skincare products before sealing them in with an occlusive.
• This product helps remove excess oil, which can otherwise mix with the occlusive and cause greasiness.

How to cleanse before slugging:

✔ Double cleanse if wearing makeup or sunscreen—start with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser.
✔ Avoid using harsh, stripping cleansers that compromise the skin barrier.
✔ Pat your face dry with a clean towel before applying hydrating products.

Skipping this step can make slugging counterproductive, so always begin with a fresh perspective!

Using Strong Actives under Occlusives (Retinol, AHAs, and BHAs)

Another common mistake is layering strong active ingredients underneath an occlusive. While slugging helps lock in moisture, it can also trap powerful actives, causing them to penetrate deeper than intended. Such effects can lead to increased irritation, sensitivity, and even skin barrier damage.

Ingredients to avoid before slugging:

✖ Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin, Adapalene) – Can cause excessive absorption, leading to irritation, peeling, and redness.
✖ Exfoliating Acids (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs) – May become too strong under an occlusive, causing over-exfoliation and barrier damage.
When trapped under a thick layer, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can become more potent, potentially worsening irritation.

Safe ingredients to use before slugging:

✔ Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or niacinamide.
✔ Barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and panthenol.
✔ Fragrance-free, gentle moisturizers to provide an extra hydration boost.

Slugging should occur on nights when you’re not using strong actives to prevent irritation. The process allows your skin to recover and replenish without risk of overloading it.

Applying Too Much Product, Leading to Excessive Greasiness

Slugging doesn’t require a thick, heavy layer of occlusive to be effective. Many people make the mistake of applying too much product, which can lead to discomfort, greasy skin, and even pillow stains.

Understanding the challenges of excessive usage:

• Feels overly greasy and sticky, making it uncomfortable to sleep.
• Can clog pores, especially for those with combination or acne-prone skin.
• Transfers onto bedding and clothing, making it messy and impractical.

How much occlusive should you use?

✔ A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face—more isn’t always better.
✔ If you have combination skin, apply only on dry areas rather than all over.
✔ For very dry skin, start with a small amount and increase only if needed.

By using just the right amount, you’ll still get all the benefits of slugging without the unnecessary greasiness or mess.

Conclusion: Is Slugging Worth Trying?

Slugging has gained massive popularity for its ability to lock in moisture, repair the skin barrier, and promote deep hydration. While it’s a simple and affordable skincare technique, it’s not suitable for everyone. Knowing its pros, cons, and proper execution will help you decide if it’s right for your routine.

Recap of Key Benefits, Drawbacks, and Tips for Successful Slugging

Key Benefits of Slugging:

✔ Deep hydration—Helps prevent moisture loss and keeps skin soft and plump.
✔ Barrier repair—Supports skin recovery, especially for those with dryness, eczema, or irritation.
✔ Enhances product absorption—Locks in serums and moisturizers for maximum hydration.
✔ Protects against environmental stressors—Shields the skin from pollutants and harsh weather.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider:

It can clog pores—not ideal for acne-prone or oily skin, as it may trap oil and bacteria.
✖ May feel heavy or greasy—This can cause discomfort, particularly in hot and humid climates.
Using retinol, AHAs, or BHAs before slugging can cause irritation or over-exfoliation.

Tips for Successful Slugging:

• Start with clean skin to prevent trapping dirt and bacteria.
• Use a thin layer of occlusive—more isn’t always better.
• Choose the right frequency based on your skin type (nightly for dry skin, occasional use for combination skin).
• Skip strong actives before slugging to avoid irritation.

Who Should Incorporate Slugging Into Their Routine?

Slugging is best suited for individuals with dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin. It’s especially helpful for those living in cold or dry climates or anyone experiencing a compromised skin barrier due to irritation or excessive exfoliation.

However, those with oily or acne-prone skin should approach slugging cautiously. Instead of applying an occlusive all over, they can modify the technique by targeting only dry areas or using a lightweight alternative like CeraVe Healing Ointment.

Is Slugging a Skincare Game-Changer or Just Another Trend?

Slugging may seem like a viral skincare trend, but its benefits are backed by science and dermatological practices. When done correctly, it can transform dry, dull skin into a hydrated, healthy complexion. While it’s not necessary for everyone, those who struggle with moisture loss and barrier damage can find significant improvement by incorporating slugging into their routine.

Ultimately, the key to successful slugging is customization—adapting it to your skin’s unique needs and adjusting the frequency to prevent unwanted side effects. If your skin craves extra hydration and protection, slugging might be the missing step in your skincare routine.

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