What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of “slugging”? If it’s the shell-less animal that’s similar to a snail, then you’re on the right track. The skincare trend is named after slugs, as the slime they leave behind looks similar to the products used in the last step of the routine. Not to be confused with snail-infused skincare, slugging is a process that locks in your products for improved moisture retention.
Here's everything you need to know about slugging:
What is slugging?
Slugging is the skincare process of applying an occlusive (such as petroleum jelly) as the last step of your P.M. routine. This is meant to create a physical barrier on the skin to seal in the products you’ve used as well as moisture and hydration.
What are the benefits of slugging?
While slugging has many benefits, one of the key ones is its ability to help restore the skin’s barrier(or the outermost protective layer of the skin). It can also help your skin absorb any products you’ve used more effectively. All in all, slugging can help give you youthful, moisturized, and smooth skin.
Is slugging suitable for all skin types?
Most skin types can enjoy the benefits of slugging. But if you have acne-prone skin or active blackheads, you may want to instead focus on treating your skin with active ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids. These aren’t recommended to be used while slugging, since the actives can become more potent and cause skin sensitivity and other issues.
But more than your skin type, it’s also important to look at your skin’s current state and the environment you’re in. If your face feels dry or if the weather is cooler, it may be worth giving slugging a try.
Can slugging cause breakouts or clogged pores?
The process in itself shouldn’t clog pores or cause breakouts. Just make sure to use products—including your occlusive of choice and other skincare products—that are non-comedogenic. Remember: Slugging will lock in anything underneath the occlusive layer.
How to incorporate slugging into your skincare routine
- Step 1: Cleanse the face thoroughly. Make sure all your makeup and previously applied skincare (like sunscreen) is removed.
- Step 2: Exfoliate to get rid of any residue or dead skin. Again, having super clean skin is key here!
- Step 3: Use moisturizing, non-comedogenic products on damp skin. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and aloe.
- Step 4: Apply a thin layer of the occlusive to lock in the moisture. Avoid the eye area.
How often should you “slug” your skin?
This will ultimately depend on your skin. Those with drier skin may benefit from more frequent slugging versus oilier types. If you’re in a cooler environment, slugging more often may also work better for you. Try and see what works!
The Best Products To Use For Slugging
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Vaseline Petroleum Jelly
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓VaselinePetroleum Jelly 106g, P126,Watsons
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FRESH Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream
FRESHRose Deep Hydration Face Cream 15ml, P1,190,Sephora
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CeraVe Healing Ointment
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓CeraVeHealing Ointment 54g, P875,Lazada
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Apollo Petroleum Jelly
ApolloPetroleum Jelly 100g, P118.75,Watsons
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Aquaphor Healing Ointment
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓AquaphorHealing Ointment 3 oz, P650,Lazada
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Farmacy Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer
FarmacyHoney Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer 25ml, P1,750,Sephora