You've probably heard the term "slugging" that's been trending on social media , especially TikTok, lately. The name might sound a bit strange. But don't worry, it has nothing to do with real snails. Slugging is a very simple, yet old method of skin care. So let's take a look at what this new trend really is, what benefits it has for our skin, and whether it's right for you.
What exactly is slugging?
Simply put, `Slugging` is the act of applying a layer of petroleum jelly to your face and leaving it on overnight. So why is it called `Slugging`? The reason is that after applying this jelly, your face looks a bit shiny and oily. It gets its name because it looks like a slimy trail left by a snail. However, that look is temporary, and the long-term results are much better.
What should I use for this?
The best thing for slugging is pure petroleum jelly. Vaseline is a good example of this. Although petroleum is made from crude oil, it is highly refined, making it one of the safest products to use on your skin.
Petroleum jelly acts as an ``occlusive.'' That is, when it is applied to the skin, it acts like a protective shield. It does not allow anything from the outside to penetrate the skin, nor does it allow moisture to evaporate. Strictly speaking, this jelly is not absorbed into the skin, but instead sits on top of it like a blanket, protecting it.
In addition to Vaseline, sometimes products like CeraVe Healing Ointment and Aquaphor are also used for this purpose. In addition to petroleum, they also contain skin-friendly ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. But whatever you choose, don't choose products that have a lot of chemicals, additives, and fragrances. Because they can cause allergies on your sensitive facial skin.
How to do slugging at home?
One of the biggest advantages of slugging is that it's very simple. All you need is petroleum jelly and some of the usual skincare products you already use. Let's take a look at how to do it step by step.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Cleansing the skin | Any skin care routine should start with a thorough cleansing of the face. This removes dirt and dust and creates an environment for the skin to absorb the products you apply. Wash your face and gently pat it dry. When your skin is slightly damp, but not completely dry, proceed to the next step. |
| Step 2: Priming | Apply your usual skincare products (toner, serum, eye cream, moisturizer) in the correct order. Very important: Do not use acne medications, retinoids, or harsh acids (e.g. glycolic acid) on the day of slugging. Petroleum jelly can make these products more harsh and damage the skin. |
| Step 3: Slugging | When you're done with your skincare routine, apply petroleum jelly as the last step. You don't need a lot, just a pea-sized amount, and use your fingertips to apply a thin layer all over your face. Pay special attention to areas that tend to be drier, like around your eyes. |
| Step 4: Waiting | Apply this and leave it overnight. This will give your skincare products underneath the layer of petroleum jelly a chance to work properly. The next morning, as soon as you wake up, cleanse your face as usual. |
Remember, slugging doesn't add moisture. It helps your skin retain the moisture it already has and the moisture it has from the moisturizer you've applied.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of slugging?
Like any other, slugging has its pros and cons. Let's see what they are.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Inexpensive: Compared to moisturizers that cost thousands, it's a great thing to be able to achieve this result with a petroleum jelly that costs hundreds of rupees. | Problems with certain products: Slugging with the wrong skincare products (acids, retinoids) can increase their harshness and cause skin sensitivity, redness, or inflammation. |
| Increases the effectiveness of other products: It helps you get the most out of your expensive skincare products by locking the nutrients in your skin. | Can be messy: Since petroleum jelly is an oily substance, it can get on your pillowcases and sheets. So it's a good idea to put an old towel over your pillow before going to bed. |
| Reduces signs of aging: By retaining moisture in the skin, it gives the skin a plumping effect. This can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. | Not for everyone: Like all skin care products, slugging is not for everyone. For some people, it can cause acne or other skin problems. |
| A time-tested method: While this may be a recent trend, petroleum jelly has been recommended by dermatologists for decades. Even our grandmothers and mothers used Vaseline to treat dry skin. |
Who is the slugging method really suitable for and who is it not suitable for?
Generally, anyone with healthy skin can do `slugging`. People with dry and sensitive skin in particular can get very good results from this. Petroleum jelly is `noncomedogenic`. This means that it does not block the pores of the skin.
However, slugging is not suitable for people with the following skin conditions:
- People with acne-prone or blackhead -prone skin: Slugging can increase oiliness of the skin, making acne and blackheads more likely.
- Those with very oily skin: Adding another layer of occlusive to already oily skin can unnecessarily increase oiliness and shine.
- People who are prone to milia: Milia are small, white bumps that form under the skin. Slugging may increase the risk of these in some people.
- People with skin conditions such as papulopustular rosacea ( rosacea ) .
If someone with this type of skin engages in `slugging`, they may experience problems such as increased acne, increased oiliness, or the formation of `milia`.
Remember these things before slugging!
It is very important to keep these points in mind before you start slugging.
- It doesn't work on its own: Just applying petroleum jelly won't do anything. You should definitely apply your moisturizer or serum underneath.
- Be careful with retinoids: If you're using products that contain retinoids, think twice about slugging them on top. Especially if you have sensitive skin, retinoids can be harsh and can damage your skin.
- Never use on sunburned skin: Do not `slugging` on sunburned skin. This will trap the heat in the skin, increasing inflammation and pain. Therefore, use `sunscreen` when going out in the sun to prevent skin from burning.
- The best time is at night: Slugging can be done during the day. However, since it can be quite oily on the face, many people prefer to do it at night. Also, since our skin repairs itself during sleep, it is best to do it at night.
Ultimately, whether slugging is right for you depends on your skin type and your preferences. Before you start, do a small patch test . That is, before applying it to your face, apply it to a small area, like behind your ear, wait 24 hours, and only apply it to your face if there is no allergic reaction.
If you still have doubts about this, the best thing to do is to ask your doctor (physician) for advice.
Take-Home Message
- `Slugging` is the process of using petroleum jelly to create a protective layer on the skin's surface. Rather than moisturizing the skin, this prevents moisture from evaporating.
- This should always be done on thoroughly cleansed skin and moisturized.
- Avoid slugging if you have oily skin, acne-prone skin, or milia.
- Be very careful when slugging with harsh skincare products like retinoids. It is best to seek medical advice.
- Before starting any new treatment, do a patch test on a small area of skin to make sure there is no allergic reaction.
- If any skin problems arise, stop slugging immediately and consult your doctor.
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