If you’ve ever scrolled through TikTok or Instagram, chances are you’ve heard about slugging—the skincare hack everyone’s raving about. No, it doesn’t involve actual slugs (thankfully). Instead, it’s a simple nighttime skincare routine that locks in moisture and gives you the hydrated, glowing skin of your dreams.
Here’s everything you need to know about slugging, including how to do it, the pros and cons, and why it might just be the game-changer your routine is missing.
What Is slugging
Slugging is all about using an occlusive layer, like Vaseline or Aquaphor, as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine. This seals in hydration, helps repair your skin barrier, and prevents water loss while you sleep. Think of it as putting your skin in a cozy, healing cocoon for the night. It’s especially amazing for dry, dehydrated, or irritated skin.
The Pros of Slugging
Why everyone’s obsessed:
1. Deep Hydration: Slugging traps moisture, keeping your skin plump and dewy.
2. Skin Barrier Repair: It’s perfect if you’ve overdone it with exfoliants or harsh products.
3. Calms Irritation: Reduces redness and soothes inflamed or sensitive skin.
4. Cost-Effective: You don’t need fancy products—a drugstore tub of Vaseline works wonders.
The Cons of Slugging
What to keep in mind:
1. Not for Everyone: Oily or acne-prone skin types should proceed with caution, as occlusives can clog pores.
2. Messy: Be prepared for a bit of stickiness on your pillowcase.
3. Not All Products Are Compatible: Don’t layer active ingredients like retinol or AHAs before slugging—they can get trapped under the occlusive layer and cause irritation.
How to Try Slugging (The Simple Routine)
Ready to give your skin the TLC it deserves? Here’s how to do it:
1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup and dirt.
2. Hydrate: Apply a hydrating serum, like one with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.
3. Moisturize: Use a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer as your base layer.
4. Seal It In: Finish with a thin layer of an occlusive product like Vaseline, Aquaphor, or CeraVe Healing Ointment.
5. Sleep Tight: Let the magic happen overnight. Wake up to softer, more hydrated skin!
Who Should Try Slugginn?
Slugging is ideal for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin—especially in cold or dry climates. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, try a lighter occlusive like squalane oil to avoid clogging your pores.
Final Thoughts
Slugging isn’t just a trend—it’s a skincare technique that can genuinely transform your skin. It’s simple, affordable, and perfect for anyone looking to bring extra hydration into their routine. Just remember, skincare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Start small, listen to your skin, and adjust as needed.
Are you ready to try slugging? Share your experience in the comments or DM us on Instagram—we’d love to hear how it works for you!
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