In the world of skincare, trends come and go almost every month. Few, however, have attracted as much attention as slugging. Within just a few years, this simple skincare technique has become a social media phenomenon and has even found its way into the recommendations of many skincare professionals.
At first glance, it doesn't seem particularly revolutionary. Slugging involves applying a layer of an occlusive product—most commonly petroleum jelly or a similar balm—as the final step of your evening skincare routine to help lock moisture into the skin.
For some, it's a game-changing solution for dry and dehydrated skin. Others are put off by the idea of applying petroleum jelly to their face. So, what's the reality?
Although slugging only gained widespread popularity through TikTok and social media, it's far from a new concept.
Dermatologists and people with dry or sensitive skin have been using the same principle for decades. Social media simply gave it a catchy name and introduced it to a wider audience.
The name "slugging" comes from the shiny appearance of the skin after applying the occlusive layer. The glossy finish reminded many people of the trail left behind by a slug.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that petroleum jelly or similar products hydrate the skin.
In reality, most occlusive products do not add moisture to the skin themselves.
Instead, they create a protective barrier on the skin's surface that helps reduce overnight water loss. In other words, slugging doesn't provide hydration directly—it helps retain the moisture that's already there.
That's why it's always applied as the final step of your evening skincare routine, after serums, moisturisers and other hydrating products.
The reason is simple.
Many people struggle with dry, tight or dehydrated skin, particularly during the colder months. When the skin barrier is compromised, the skin loses moisture more easily and can feel uncomfortable, irritated or look tired.
This is where an occlusive layer can be beneficial.
Many people report waking up with skin that feels softer, more comfortable and less dry. As a result, slugging has become especially popular among those with dry or sensitive skin.
This is where it's important to be cautious.
Although social media often presents slugging as a universal solution, it isn't necessarily suitable for every skin type.
It tends to work best for people with:
People with very oily or acne-prone skin often prefer lighter approaches to hydration.
That said, this doesn't automatically mean slugging is unsuitable for oily skin. Every person's skin responds differently.
Slugging is often discussed in relation to repairing the skin barrier.
If your skin is irritated, excessively dry or exposed to challenging conditions—such as cold winter weather or after a period of intensive exfoliation—helping to minimise moisture loss may support recovery.
For this reason, slugging frequently appears in discussions about sensitive skin and compromised skin barriers.
It doesn't have to be part of your daily routine, though. Many people use it only when their skin feels it needs extra support.
There are plenty of myths surrounding petroleum jelly.
Many people worry that it clogs pores or prevents the skin from "breathing". In reality, petroleum jelly is one of the longest-established skincare ingredients, and its properties are well understood.
Even so, everyone's skin is different.
If you're prone to clogged pores or generally find rich products too heavy, slugging may not be the best option for you.
Its simplicity is one of the main reasons why the trend has become so popular.
Slugging isn't a complete skincare routine—it's simply the final step of your evening routine.
First, cleanse your skin. Next, apply your usual hydrating products. Finally, finish with a thin layer of an occlusive product.
The aim isn't to create a thick mask, but to help your skin retain moisture overnight.
Not necessarily.
This is worth emphasising.
Slugging isn't an essential part of skincare, nor is it necessary for healthy skin. Many people achieve excellent results with nothing more than a well-formulated moisturiser.
It's therefore best viewed as an optional technique rather than a universal solution.
For some, it becomes a favourite part of their routine. Others try it a few times and decide it doesn't make any noticeable difference.
Both experiences are perfectly valid.
Interestingly, although slugging isn't exclusively a Korean skincare practice, it aligns very well with the philosophy behind Korean skincare.
K-beauty has long focused on hydration, strengthening the skin barrier and preventing problems before they arise, rather than relying on aggressive treatments.
That's one of the reasons why slugging has become so popular among people interested in Korean skincare.
Slugging is a simple technique designed to help the skin retain moisture more effectively overnight. It's neither a miracle cure nor an essential step in every skincare routine, but for certain skin types it can be a useful addition.
It's particularly popular among people with dry, dehydrated or sensitive skin. Even so, there is no single skincare method that works for everyone.
As with most skincare trends, the best approach is a simple one: listen to your skin and choose the products and techniques that genuinely work for you.
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