The Beauty of Slugging: A Simple Guide to Glowing Skin

Over the past few years, you may have come across the term "slugging" popping up everywhere on the internet. It's become a popular practice for achieving remarkable results in skin texture and complexion. But what exactly is slugging, how does it work, and how can you make the most of it without falling for common myths? Let's dive in and demystify the world of slugging for you.

 

What is Slugging?

Slugging is a skincare technique that involves applying a thick layer of occlusive moisturizer, typically petroleum jelly, to the face overnight. The goal? To wake up with incredibly soft, supple skin that has a healthy glow - or rather a subtle sheen. While petroleum jelly is the go-to choice for many, other similar products like Aquaphor or CeraVe Healing Ointment, both of which are petroleum jelly-based, can also be used.

 

How Does Slugging Work?

The magic of slugging lies in its ability to create a protective barrier on your skin, preventing moisture loss while you sleep. This is particularly beneficial in dry environments, such as air-conditioned or heated homes, where the skin is prone to losing moisture throughout the night. By maintaining this barrier, slugging helps to soothe and condition the skin, reducing irritation and leaving you with a calm and refreshed complexion in the morning.

 

The Best Way to Slug:

For optimal results, it's essential to prepare your skin properly before slugging. Start by gently washing your face with lukewarm water to remove any dirt or makeup. If you're wearing water-resistant makeup, use coconut oil or sunflower oil to effectively remove it. Avoid aggressive cleansing, scrubbing or exfoliating, as this can irritate the skin and diminish the effects of slugging.

 

Next, apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly, our shea butter-based balm or your chosen occlusive moisturizer to your face. While Aquaphor Healing Ointment or Cerave Healing Ointment are excellent moisturizers - keep in mind that they are diluted petroleum jelly, which is their active ingredient. Therefore, if you are going to go with petroleum jelly for slugging - you may as well use the pure product rather than the diluted versions, which are more expensive as well. The key here is to use just enough product to create a protective barrier without leaving a visible residue. If you're concerned about the greasiness of petroleum jelly, consider placing a towel on your pillow to prevent any staining.

 Common Myths About Slugging:

There are several misconceptions surrounding slugging that we need to address. Firstly, you don't need to layer multiple products to make slugging effective. Stick to a simple routine with just the occlusive moisturizer for best results. Additionally, slugging is not likely to cause pimples if you're using a non-comedogenic product like petroleum jelly or our shea butter balms.

Who Can Benefit from Slugging?

Slugging is suitable for anyone looking to improve their skin's hydration and texture, but it's especially beneficial for those with dry, sensitive skin or an imbalanced complexion. By restoring moisture and strengthening the skin barrier, slugging can help alleviate issues like mixed-face appearance and excessive oil production. 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, slugging is a straightforward yet highly effective skincare technique that can transform your complexion overnight. By applying an occlusive moisturizer like petroleum jelly or our shea butter balm before bed, you can wake up with beautifully hydrated and radiant skin. Remember to keep your slugging routine simple, avoid adding unnecessary steps, and enjoy the glowing results!

Thanks for reading and God bless. 

Yuval Bibi, MD/PhD - Board Certified Dermatologist