Slugging in Beauty: Benefits, Methods, and Product Recommendations for Women

Last Updated Jun 5, 2025
Slugging in Beauty: Benefits, Methods, and Product Recommendations for Women

Slugging Illustration

Slugging is a skincare technique that involves applying a thick layer of occlusive ointment, such as petroleum jelly, over moisturizer to lock in hydration overnight. This method helps prevent moisture loss, promotes skin barrier repair, and enhances overall skin smoothness and plumpness by sealing in active ingredients. Ideal for dry or sensitive skin types, slugging can reduce irritation and improve skin texture with consistent use.

What Is Slugging? The Viral Beauty Trend Explained

Slugging is a skincare technique that involves applying a thick layer of occlusive petroleum jelly or balm as the final step in your nighttime routine to lock in moisture. This viral beauty trend gained popularity for its intense hydration benefits, making it ideal for dry or compromised skin by preventing transepidermal water loss. Dermatologists highlight slugging as a barrier-repair method that enhances skin's natural healing process overnight.

Top Benefits of Slugging for Women's Skin Health

Slugging creates a protective barrier by sealing in moisture, which helps prevent water loss and enhances skin hydration for a dewy complexion. This method reduces redness and irritation by soothing dry or sensitive skin, promoting a balanced and calm appearance. It also boosts the effectiveness of nighttime skincare products by locking in active ingredients, leading to improved overall skin health and texture.

How to Incorporate Slugging Into Your Skincare Routine

To incorporate slugging into your skincare routine, apply a lightweight moisturizer as the final step of your nighttime regimen to lock in hydration and enhance skin barrier repair. Use a thin layer of petroleum jelly or occlusive balm to seal in moisture without clogging pores, especially after cleansing and applying serums or treatments. Perform slugging a few times a week on clean, damp skin to achieve optimal hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss for a dewy, nourished complexion.

Best Methods for Effective Slugging

Slugging involves applying a thick occlusive layer, such as petroleum jelly or heavy moisturizers, to lock in skin hydration overnight, enhancing moisture retention and skin barrier repair. For best results, cleanse and exfoliate the skin to remove dead cells and ensure better product absorption before slugging. Use non-comedogenic occlusives suitable for your skin type to prevent clogged pores and optimize hydration without irritation.

Recommended Products for Slugging Success

Recommended products for slugging success include occlusive moisturizers like petroleum jelly, beeswax-based balms, and thick cream formulations rich in emollients to lock in hydration effectively. Popular options are Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly, Aquaphor Healing Ointment, and CeraVe Healing Ointment, all known for creating a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss. Incorporating these products after skincare routines enhances skin barrier repair and maintains optimal hydration levels overnight.

Slugging for Different Skin Types: Tailored Tips for Women

Slugging enhances skin hydration by sealing in moisture with an occlusive layer, making it ideal for dry and sensitive skin types prone to irritation. For oily or acne-prone skin, use a lightweight, non-comedogenic petrolatum-based product to avoid clogged pores and breakouts. Tailoring your slugging routine to your specific skin type ensures optimal results and maintains your skin's natural balance.

Common Mistakes Women Make When Slugging

Many women make common mistakes when slugging, such as applying too much occlusive product, which can clog pores and cause breakouts. Using products not suited for your skin type, especially heavy petroleum-based ointments on oily or acne-prone skin, can worsen skin conditions. Ensure your skin is clean and hydrated before slugging to maximize hydration and avoid trapping dirt or bacteria under the occlusive layer.

Day vs. Night: When Is the Best Time to Slug?

Slugging is most effective when applied as the last step of your nighttime skincare routine, allowing occlusive ingredients like petroleum jelly to lock in moisture and promote skin barrier repair while you sleep. Using slugging during the day can clog pores and cause shine due to its heavy texture, making it less suitable for daytime wear under makeup. For optimal hydration and skin healing, reserve slugging for nighttime to take advantage of the skin's natural repair cycle.

Slugging and Makeup: What Women Should Know

Slugging, the practice of applying an occlusive layer like petroleum jelly to lock in moisture overnight, can impact makeup application by creating a smooth, hydrated canvas for foundation. Your skin may appear plumper and more radiant, but makeup can slide off more easily if the slugging product is not fully absorbed or wiped off in the morning. Understanding how to balance slugging with your makeup routine ensures longer-lasting wear and prevents clogged pores or makeup slip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slugging for Women

Slugging is a skincare technique that involves applying a thick occlusive layer, usually petroleum jelly, on the face to lock in moisture overnight. Women frequently ask if slugging is suitable for all skin types, and it is generally recommended for those with dry or sensitive skin while oily or acne-prone skin may require caution. Common concerns include the risk of clogged pores, making it essential to cleanse thoroughly before slugging and use non-comedogenic products.



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The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about Slugging are subject to change from time to time.

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