Originating in South Korea, slugging isn't as gross as it sounds. Sealing your skin with a petrolatum-based product before you go to bed helps lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier.
Pharmacist and founder of QED Skincare, Shosh Eisner shares her insights into this beauty phenomenon.
Even highly respected beauty editors and dermatologists are jumping on the slugging bandwagon; although their suggested method is a bit different, the concept remains the same. In a nutshell, although the term may be currently on trend, I've been adopting the practice for many years and swear by it.
The TikTok version
TikTokers slather their face in a layer of Vaseline and go to bed. Vaseline Jelly is otherwise known as petroleum jelly, a by-product of the refinery process that does not penetrate the skin. It literally sits on the surface as a barrier and will prevent evaporation of moisture, which may account for some of the smoothing effect.
It will make your skin feel smooth and soft in the morning as a thin film will remain on the skin, however it may also cause breakouts by blocking your pores.
The beauty editor/dermatologist version
They recommend slugging as the last step of your nighttime skincare routine. Apply your quality night creams and serum, and then follow it with the Vaseline.
It still won't penetrate, but in this version prevents evaporation of your products, pushing them into your skin. This gets you much better results out of your skincare. It still ruins your bedding and hair, and may still cause breakouts by blocking the pores.
The QED Version
Apply a thick layer of Ultra-Sensitive Face Balm to clean skin. This balm is a natural penetrable balm made from hazelnut oil, shea butter and vitamin E. Your face will look shiny for a little while and then the product will slowly absorb into your skin while you sleep, preventing moisture loss and pushing the rich hydration deep into your skin.
Although slugging is a practice you can adopt all year round, it's especially beneficial during colder months that tend to leave your skin feeling dry, irritated and dull.
