His & Her Glow
Technique

Slugging: What Is It and Does It Work?

The skincare technique of sealing your nighttime routine with a thick layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or similar occlusive to lock in moisture overnight.

Where It Came From

Slugging has roots in Korean skincare and dermatology, where occlusive barriers have long been recommended for dry skin. It went viral on Reddit's SkincareAddiction and TikTok around 2020-2021, with users sharing dramatic before/after results.

How Slugging Works

After completing your nighttime skincare routine, you apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, Aquaphor, or CeraVe Healing Ointment over your face. The occlusive barrier prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping all that moisture locked in overnight.

Benefits

  • ✓Intense overnight hydration
  • ✓Repairs damaged skin barrier
  • ✓Helps with dry, flaky skin
  • ✓Reduces appearance of fine lines
  • ✓Cheap and accessible (Vaseline works)

Drawbacks

  • •Can clog pores if acne-prone
  • •Messy (gets on pillowcases)
  • •Not recommended with retinoids (seals them in too much)
  • •Greasy feel that some dislike
  • •Doesn't work for oily/acne-prone skin

Who Should Try It

Dry and very dry skin typesThose with compromised skin barrierPeople dealing with eczema or dermatitisAnyone using drying treatments (accutane, harsh actives)Winter skincare for cold, dry climates

How to Try Slugging

1Complete your normal nighttime routine
2Skip actives like retinol on slugging nights
3Apply a pea-sized amount of Vaseline or Aquaphor
4Spread in a thin, even layer over your face
5Use an old pillowcase you don't mind getting greasy
6Wash off gently in the morning
7Start with 1-2 nights per week to test your skin's response

What Experts Say

Dermatologists confirm that occlusives like petroleum jelly are effective for preventing moisture loss and are non-comedogenic despite their thick texture. However, they caution against slugging over active ingredients or if you're acne-prone. It's best for dry, damaged, or barrier-compromised skin.

The Bottom Line

Absolutely worth trying if you have dry or dehydrated skin—it's cheap and effective. But if you're oily or acne-prone, skip it. The key is knowing your skin type and not slugging over actives.

Key Ingredients

Glycerin

Glycerin is a humectant that draws water into the skin. It's one of the most effective and well-researched moisturizing ingredients, found in countless skincare products.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. It occurs naturally in skin and is used in skincare to provide deep, lasting hydration.

Ceramides

Ceramides are lipids that make up over 50% of your skin's barrier. In skincare, they help repair and strengthen the barrier, locking in moisture and keeping irritants out.

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