Ok, I know you’ve heard about slugging, but what exactly is it? Let me break it down for you! Despite its unappealing name, it might be the game-changer your skin care routine needs. This buzz-worthy trend got its name for the glossy, slick finish it leaves on your skin, akin to a slug.
Slugging is a K-beauty skincare trend that involves sealing your usual nighttime skincare with a layer of petroleum jelly (also known as petrolatum). It's an occlusive ingredient that traps everything underneath it to maximize the effectiveness of your skincare while protecting your skin from bacteria and environmental pollutants.
If you ask any dermatologist, you’ll find that we are constantly recommending occlusive ointments like petrolatum for dry skin—even for babies! We’ve been using them for years, far before we realized it was even trendy to do so! The basic idea is that occlusive ointments help trap moisture from the products you’ve applied beneath them (ie: your moisturizer). We say that they “minimize transepidermal water loss”-- sounds fancy, right?
Petrolatum-based ointments are traditionally used for slugging. They are a popular choice due to their occlusive properties, making them the perfect sealant.
How to Slug?
Slugging is best done at nighttime and as the last step. Think of it as the icing on the cake. Start with your cleanser, then apply your serums (ie: hyaluronic acid) and/or moisturizers. Lastly, apply a very thin layer of your occlusive of choice as your last step! Personally, this is where I think people take it too far. I SAID THIN LAYER. Just a tiny dab of it across your face, then rub it in. Be sure to rinse off in the AM!
Other ways I like to use occlusive ointments are:
- On my heels and elbows to improve dry, cracked skin
- On my lips overnight to deeply hydrate and soften them by the morning
- Around my cuticles to prolong my manicure and improve dry nails
- On the high points of my face like the cheekbones for a natural highlighter
With the colder months approaching, it's never been a better time to slug in your skincare routine. Start your journey to dewy, hydrated skin without the high-end price tag. And guess what? You can find the CeraVe Healing Ointment in our Winter 2023 Holiday box! Join us in the trend of slugging and feel the difference it can make in your skincare regimen.
Note: Slugging may not be suitable for all skin types. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, consult with a dermatologist before incorporating slugging into your skincare routine!
