Key Takeaways: Slugging is a skincare technique that helps reduce moisture loss by sealing in hydration overnight. Skin slugging can be especially helpful for dry or dehydrated skin and a compromised skin barrier. While beneficial for many people, slugging may not be the best fit for every skin type or routine. If you've spent any time exploring skincare trends on social media, you've probably come across the term ā slugging .ā Slugging is a simple skincare technique that helps your skin retain the hydration you've already applied. For some people, slugging can leave skin feeling softer, smoother, and more comfortable by morning. However, like any skincare trend, it isn't necessarily one-size-fits-all. Here's what slugging is and whether it's worth adding to your nighttime skincare routine. What is slugging? Slugging is the practice of applying an occlusive product as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine. The goal is for the occlusive layer to help reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by slowing the evaporation of water from your skin overnight. Think of slugging as placing a protective seal over the skincare products you've already applied. Slugging is often paired with hydrating serums and moisturizers , rather than serving as a replacement to them. How does slugging work? Your skin naturally loses water throughout the day and night, and slugging helps minimize that moisture loss by creating a barrier on the surface of your skin. This allows the hydrating ingredients underneath to stay in contact with your skin longer. For people with dry or dehydrated skin, slugging can leave skin feeling softer and more comfortable in the morning. That said though, it's important to remember that slugging doesn't create hydration on its own. Instead, it helps preserve the hydration your routine has already provided. How do you slug your skin? Slugging is surprisingly simple. Hereās how you can do it, with just a couple of easy steps. Step 1: Cleanse Start with freshly cleansed skin to remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and daily buildup. Step 2: Apply your skincare Continue with your usual routine, including any hydrating serums, treatment products , and moisturizer. Allow each product a few moments to absorb before moving to the next step. Step 3: Apply an occlusive layer As the final step, apply a thin layer of an occlusive product over your face. Generally, a little goes a long way. The goal isn't to completely coat your skin, but just to create a lightweight seal that helps reduce overnight moisture loss. Who benefits most from slugging? Slugging is often most beneficial for people with: Dry skin Dehydrated skin A compromised skin barrier Skin that feels tight or uncomfortable during colder months If your skin frequently feels dry despite using moisturizer, slugging may help your routine work more effectively by helping retain the moisture you've already added. Is slugging good for oily or acne-prone skin? It depends. Some people with oily skin tolerate slugging well, while others may find that it feels too heavy. Because slugging involves applying an occlusive layer over your entire routine, it may not be the best choice for everyone with acne-prone skin. If you're interested in trying slugging, consider starting just a few nights a week and paying attention to how your skin responds. As with any skincare routine, the best approach is the one that works for your individual skin. For a product thatās acne-prone-skin friendly, our Blue Facial Oil is the right pick. With antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, this oil helps soothe skin, reduce redness, and minimize the look of scarring while also hydrating and nourishing. What are some common slugging mistakes? If you decide to try slugging, there are a few simple habits that can help you get the best results. Avoid applying slugging products to dirty skin, as you don't want to trap makeup, sunscreen, or other impurities against your skin overnight. Don't apply an excessively thick layer. More product doesn't necessarily provide more benefit. Finally, avoid introducing multiple new products at the same time. Keeping the rest of your routine consistent makes it easier to understand how your skin responds. The bottom line Slugging has become popular for a reason. When used appropriately, it can be an effective way to help reduce overnight moisture loss and support a healthy skin barrier . While it isn't necessary for everyone, people with dry or dehydrated skin may find that it leaves their complexion feeling softer, smoother, and more comfortable by morning. As with most skincare techniques, consistency and paying attention to your skin's needs are more important than following every trend. FAQs Can you slug every night? Many people can, but it depends on your skin type and personal preference. Some people prefer slugging only a few nights each week. Should you slug before or after moisturizer? Slugging should be the final step in your nighttime skincare routine, after moisturizer. Can you slug if you have acne? Some people with acne-prone skin enjoy slugging, while others find it too occlusive. Start slowly and see how your skin responds. Sources: Slugging: Does This Skin Care Trend Work? | Cleveland Clinic How to Pick the Right Moisturizer for Your Skin Emollients and Moisturizers | DermNet The Role of Moisturizers in Addressing Various Kinds of Dermatitis | PMC
