Everything you need to know about skin slugging

Introduction

If you are someone who relentlessly keeps scrolling through TikTok or Instagram reels, then it's quite likely that you have stumbled upon the term “slugging”. Now what is slugging? A slimy creature’s residue? Or something like a snail facial? Or are these animal-derived hydration-boosting products? For all the skincare curious minds out there, fret not! We are here to elaborate more on this viral moisturising trick. Imagine it as the ultimate moisture lock, transforming your skin overnight into a radiant, dewy dream. So, if you're tired of chasing skincare trends that promise the world and deliver disappointment, it's time to embrace slug life. Let's delve deeper into the world of slugging and unlock the secret to supple, glowing skin!

Unveiling the Mystery: What is Slugging?

Slugging is a skincare trend derived from the K-beauty world known for its unreal hydrating benefits. Simply put, it is the process of slathering a heavy-duty occlusive, something like petroleum jelly or vaseline or aquaphor, as the last step of your nightly skin care routine. It has gained popularity quite recently but experts have recommended this technique for years to combat dryness. The term, slugging, definitely has a bizarre connotation to it but it gets its name from the sheen it leaves behind on the face. Something like, a slug’s slimy trail.

Read on to find the benefits of slugging skincare, how to use it, which skin-types are fit to use along its certain slugging tips and tricks.

The Science Behind the Shine: How Does Slugging Work?

What are Occlusives?

Occlusives are a type of skincare ingredient that play a heroic role in slugging. They sit on the surface of the skin by forming a physical barrier to ensure protection. Think of them like a protective layer of cling wrap. Popular occlusive ingredients include petroleum jelly, mineral oil, dimethicone (a type of silicone), and some waxes.

What is TEWL?

Throughout the day, your skin naturally loses water through a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This is a normal function, but factors like dry weather, hot showers, and even certain medications can accelerate TEWL, leading to dry, flaky, and irritated skin.

How Occlusives Help with Hydration

Here's where the magic of slugging skincare takes place. The occlusive layer created by products like petroleum jelly acts as a shield, inhibiting the bacteria lurking outside to irritate the skin and prevents the moisture from escaping as well. It significantly reduces the TEWL, to promote more plumped, bouncy and glowing skin.

Is Slugging Right for You?

Potential Benefits

Deep hydration for dry skin: The primary role of slugging is to hydrate the skin. By creating a thin slimy film on the top of your skin’ surface, it prevents moisture loss and allows the existing hydration to penetrate deep into the skin. People with dry, flaky skin can benefit from slugging skincare since it heals the underlying cracks with a reparative approach. It leaves the skin feeling plumped, baby-soft & dewy.

Enhanced Absorption of Other Skincare Products: The benefits of slugging extend beyond hydration. Slugging also helps in supercharging your existing skincare routine with its other incredible benefits. The thick-layer created by an occlusive not only traps moisture but also increases the permeability of other skin-loving products to promote deeper nourishment. Perhaps, enhancing the effectiveness of other products trapped beneath the last layer.

Potential Drawbacks

While slugging boasts impressive hydration benefits, it comes along with its own set of caveats. Here's a peek at some potential drawbacks to consider before incorporating it into your routine:

• Breakouts for Acne-Prone Skin: Slathering your skin with a thick ointment can be quite daunting for all the oily-skin folks out there. If you have acne-prone skin, then steer away from slugging. It can severely damage your sebum=oil balance, trap all the oils, creams, bacteria and other dead skin cells due to its occlusivity. This eventually results in the formation of breakouts and acne.

• Clogged Pores: Clogged pores are quite common in the process of slugging. However, it is crucial to understand the cause. Occlusives like petroleum jelly have a bad reputation for clogging pores. Other supporting products trapped beneath the occlusive are responsible for disrupting the equilibrium. Perhaps, steer clear of ingredients like retinoids, AHAs, BHAs that could potentially irritate the skin, leading to clogged pores and acne. Opt for humectants like hyaluronic acid that can hydrate your skin without creating chaos.
• Feeling Greasy or Heavy: The thick, occlusive layer can feel greasy or heavy on the face, especially when the temperatures are high. This can particularly irritate those people who despise the greasy feeling on their face.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Skin Slugging

Slugging might sound simple, but there's a method to the madness to ensure you reap the benefits without any drawbacks. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:

Prep is Key: Setting the Stage for Successful Slugging

Before you layer on the occlusive goodness, it's crucial to prep your skin for optimal results. Here's why:

• Importance of Cleansing: Cleansing is non-negotiable! Ensure your face is completely free of dirt, impurities, leftover make-up, & SPF. Clean skin is receptive to other products and ensures that no dirt is trapped under the occlusive layer.

• Completing Your Nighttime Skincare Routine for Dry Skin: Go ahead and follow your usual nighttime skincare routine. Apply hydrating products like serums or lightweight moisturizers to deliver a moisture boost before sealing it all in. Skip heavy creams though, as the occlusive layer will do the heavy lifting in terms of hydration.

The Sealing Act: Applying the Occlusive Agent

Now comes the fun part – applying the occlusive product! Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Product Recommendations: Petroleum jelly is the classic slugging hero, but other options like Aquaphor Healing Ointment or petroleum-based products work well too.
• Less is More: You don't need a ton of product. A pea-sized amount is enough to cover your entire face. Apply a thin, even layer, avoiding the delicate eye area.

Post-Slugging Skin Care

Slugging is meant to be an overnight treatment. Here’s what you need to do in the morning.

• Does Slugging Need to be Done Every Night?: While slugging can produce some stunning results overnight, it is crucial to not over do it. Over-slugging can train your skin into always trapping the moisture. It is important for your skin to lose some moisture in order to produce more intercellular skin cells, thereby repairing your natural skin barrier. The ideal night skincare routine for acne prone skin. However, if your skin is reacting well to slugging you can do it more often. Basically, the frequency comes down to your personal needs & preferences. SO, ALWAYS LISTEN TO YOUR SKIN.

• Gentle Morning Cleansing Routine: In the morning, cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to remove the occlusive layer and any excess product buildup. This will prevent clogged pores and ensure your skin can breathe throughout the day.

Conclusion

Slugging offers a simple yet effective way to achieve deep hydration, especially for those with dry or irritated skin. The occlusive layer created by products like petroleum jelly helps trap moisture and enhance the benefits of your other skincare products. However, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks like breakouts for acne-prone skin and a greasy feeling.

Remember, everyone's skin is different! Patch testing any new product, including your chosen occlusive agent, is crucial before slathering it all over your face. Start slow, tailor the frequency to your skin's needs, and don't be afraid to experiment to find what works best for you. If you're looking for a way to boost your skin's hydration and achieve that dewy, plump look, slugging might just be the missing piece in your skincare routine!