By now, you’ve probably heard of the term “slugging.” It’s the skincare trend that broke the internet with over 800 million views. And it keeps on trending. Slugging is exactly what you imagine it to be: slick, slippery-looking skin that resembles a (yuck) slug. But despite the trend’s icky name, there are some real benefits behind the shine.
WHAT IS SKIN SLUGGING?
Skin slugging is the act of applying an occlusive ointment or cream (think petroleum or dimethicone-based) to your face overnight. The idea is the ointment acts as a barrier between your skin and the environment, preventing transepidermal water loss. When your skin is dry, there are microscopic cracks in its barrier, which allows moisture to escape. Slugging seals the cracks to prevent moisture loss so you wake up with soft, smooth, silky, hydrated skin.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SLUG?
Slugging is best at night, when skin is most vulnerable to moisture loss. It should be the final step in your skincare routine to help “seal” it all in. If your skin is particularly dry, you can slug nightly, but according to Dr. Koo, a few nights a week is plenty. You can also “selective” slug, which means only treat dry areas as opposed to your entire face.
CAN ANY SKIN TYPE SLUG?
Slugging is most beneficial if your skin is dry or stressed. Slugging has a natural soothing effect upon application as it seals in essential moisture so your skin feels more calm and comfortable. If your skin tends to be oily, but not blemish-prone, you can slug once, maybe twice a week, tops. Slugging is not recommended for skin prone to breakouts due to the potential for pore clogging, which can lead to further breakouts.
WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR SLUGGING?
TikTok is loaded with product recommendations, but here at Private Practice, Dr. Koo suggests slugging with Vitamin Serum and Enriching Essential Hydration if you have dry skin. Apply vitamin serum first, followed by a layer of enriching hydration. Both have a silky texture that slips over skin, as well as protective properties to support your skin barrier. If your skin is oily, Dr. Koo recommends using only Calming Essential Hydration once a week, as previously mentioned. The ingredients in all three recommended products are non-toxic and safe to use if pregnant (in the event any moms-to-be want to slug).
WHAT TO EXPECT THE MORNING AFTER YOU SLUG
The result of a good slug session is waking up with a glowing complexion.
