Is Slugging the Secret to Your Dream Skincare Glow?

Slugging is the practice of applying an occlusive layer ( barrier that seals in moisture by preventing water from evaporating from the skin’s surface) typically petroleum jelly to the face to lock in moisture. This method creates a protective barrier on the skin’s surface and prevents water loss.

Our skin acts like a sponge, it remains soft and smooth when it retains moisture. However, when it loses water too quickly, it becomes dry and rough. This makes slugging similar to using occlusives for wound healing, as it keeps the skin moist and aids in faster recovery.

With skincare enthusiasts and influencers talking about slugging, it’s no wonder this trend has gained traction. But is it the right fit for you?

In this blog, we will dive deep into understanding more about slugging: what it is, what are the benefits, and potential drawbacks and most importantly who should avoid it.

Benefits of Slugging

• Deep Hydration: It is a great solution for dry and sensitive skin as it deeply hydrates the skin and locks in moisture. It helps combat water loss and is especially useful in colder months or arid climates to provide hydration and therefore help maintain skin’s elasticity. Most dermatologists recommend slugging for quickly healing dryness and itchy skin causing eczema (skin condition causing inflammation, redness, dryness and itching)
• Enhanced Skincare Routine: It enhances skin’s natural moisture for up to 8 hours and seals in the hydration for up to 24 hours. Slugging on your face as a top layer over your skincare products enhances its ability to penetrate deeper into the skin and work more effectively.
• Skin Barrier Repair: If your skin barrier is damaged due to over-exfoliation, sun exposure or pollution, slugging can aid in its recovery by reducing water loss.
• Reduced Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Plump, hydrated skin naturally looks smoother and more youthful. While slugging isn't a magical anti-ageing cure, it can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Versatility: Slugging isn’t limited to the face. It can be used in other dry areas such as elbows, knees, and lips

Disadvantages of Slugging

• Not for oily or acne-prone skin: For people with acne-prone skin and oily skin, slugging can clog pores and cause breakouts or worsen acne. Everyone’s skin type is unique.
• Incompatibility with active ingredients: If you are slugging, avoid mixing active ingredients like AHA, retinol, and BHA in your skincare routine. These are considered strong actives and can irritate your skin while trapped under a layer of petroleum jelly.
• Messy application: The sticky and greasy residue of petroleum jelly can be uncomfortable for some people. The occlusives can easily get transferred onto your bedding and pillowcases unless covered with a cloth.

Recommended Products for Slugging

• Vaseline Petroleum Jelly: The classic choice for slugging, affordable, effective and widely available.
• Aquaphor Healing Ointment: A step up from Vaseline with additional soothing ingredients like panthenol.
• CeraVe Healing Ointment: Dermatologist-approved choice enriched with ceramides to support the skin barrier.
• La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm: A lightweight alternative for those who prefer a non-greasy feel.

Recommended Products for Slugging

Slugging with petroleum jelly is the most preferred method for skin hydration among people.

• Dry Skin: Although it is beneficial for all skin types it does help a lot of people with dry skin.
• Oily or acne-prone skin: You shouldn’t take the risk as it can lead to breakouts.
• Sensitive Skin: The skin barrier can get compromised by harsh chemicals in skincare products, excessive sun exposure, pollution, over exfoliation, medications but slugging can help repair it.

As we get older, our skin becomes naturally drier, and our skin barrier may function less effectively.

Recommended Products for Slugging

Slugging 2-3 times a week can make your skin plump & hydrated.

However, if you're someone who has sensitive skin then you should begin by slugging once or twice a week and keep only it for a few hours. Alternatively, you can also slug on damp skin post-shower and keep it for a few hours.

You can also slug on your other body parts such as knees, elbows, and lips, if they are dry to regain moisture. Slug on them post-shower after you are done applying moisturiser to your body.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Know your skin type: slugging is best for people with dry skin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, it is best to avoid slugging because it can lead to breakouts.
• Sensitive skin alert: If you have sensitive skin, it's best to limit slugging to once or twice a week and always perform a patch test beforehand.
• Choose fragrance-free products: Stick to gentle, unscented products to avoid irritation as scented products as they often have alcohol and harm the skin barrier.
• Cleanse before slugging: Always start with a clean face to prevent trapping dirt or bacteria under the occlusive layer.
• Use hydrating toners & moisturisers: When choosing toners look for ingredients like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, or panthenol. When selecting moisturisers, consider those that contain ceramides, squalane, or shea butter for their beneficial properties.
• Avoid using actives: Skip retinol, AHA’s, salicylic acid and other active ingredients before slugging, they can irritate the skin when sealed in.
• Make adjustments as necessary: If you notice your skin becoming excessively oily or breaking out, reduce the frequency of slugging or stop it altogether.

Step-by-Step Slugging

Step 1: Cleanse your face: Start with a gentle cleanser or remove dirt, oil and makeup.

Step 2: Apply your skincare: Use your serums and moisturisers but skip anything with active acids or retinol.

Step 3: Slug it out: Apply a thin but even layer of occlusive over your moisturiser.

Step 4: Allow it to function effectively: Leave the occlusive layer on overnight or for a few hours during the daytime.

Step 5: Rinse and shine: In the morning, wash your face with a gentle cleanser or use an oil cleanser if needed.

Targeted Treatments for Acne-Prone, Oily, and Sensitive Skin at The Éterne Clinic

That wraps up our discussion on slugging! But if you are dealing with oily, sensitive or acne-prone skin, don't worry, we've got you covered with a range of exciting advanced treatments tailored just for you.

• Acne Prone Skin

  Klear Anti Acne^TM : Tackle acne with confidence using Klear Anti Acne! It uses a powerful anti-acne serum specially designed to target blemishes, leaving your skin refreshed and clear.

  For extra care, try the Klear Anti Acne Plus^TM version. It's packed with amino acids and minerals to nourish acne-prone skin, helping it stay healthy, glowing, and free from spots.

• Oily Skin

  Radianz Facial^TM : Get glowing, healthy skin with photorejuvenation! This treatment uses a special laser to reduce dark spots, boost collagen, and leave your skin smooth, bright, and balanced.

  Clarify Carbon Facial^TM : An advanced skin treatment using liquid carbon and the Q-switched NdYAG laser, designed to refresh and brighten the skin while addressing various issues for a clear, smooth, and glowing complexion.

• Sensitive Skin

  Aquanourish Facial^TM: Give your skin a fresh start with the Pure Adv Oxy Awakening Facial. This oxygen facial brightens and refreshes your complexion, leaving it glowing and youthful. It's perfect for anyone who wants a radiant and rejuvenated look!

Conclusion

Slugging is a powerful technique for locking in hydration, restoring the skin barrier, and achieving that dewy glow. However, just like any skincare practice, its success depends upon understanding your skin type. If you have dry, sensitive or compromised skin, slugging can be particularly beneficial but if you have acne-prone or oily skin, caution is key to avoid potential breakouts. Schedule your appointment at The Éterne Clinic and step into a world of rejuvenation and wellness.

By using the right hydrating products for your skin and not active acids, you can maximize the benefits of slugging. This approach can be especially helpful during harsh winter months. Try slugging, observe how your skin responds, and tweak your routine accordingly.