In the world of skincare, trends come and go almost every month. Few, however, have gained as much attention as slugging. In just a few years, this simple skincare step has become a social media phenomenon and has even been recommended by 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 nighttime skincare routine to help lock moisture into your skin.
For some people, it's a game-changing solution for dry and dehydrated skin. Others can't imagine putting petroleum jelly on their face. So what's the truth?
Although slugging became widely known through TikTok and social media, it's far from a new idea.
Dermatologists and people with dry or sensitive skin have been using the same principle for decades. Social media simply gave it a name and introduced it to a much larger 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 actually hydrate the skin.
In reality, most occlusive products don't add moisture to your skin.
Instead, they create a protective barrier on the skin's surface that helps reduce water loss overnight. In other words, slugging doesn't provide hydration—it helps your skin hold on to the moisture it already has.
That's why it's always applied as the final step of your nighttime routine, after serums, moisturizers, and other hydrating products.
The answer is simple.
Many people struggle with dry, tight, or dehydrated skin, especially during the winter months. When the skin barrier is weakened, the skin loses moisture more easily and may become more sensitive or appear dull and tired.
This is exactly where an occlusive layer can help.
Many people say they wake up with softer, smoother, and more comfortable-feeling skin. That's one of the main reasons slugging has become especially popular among people with dry or sensitive skin.
This is where it's important to be realistic.
Although social media often presents slugging as a one-size-fits-all solution, it doesn't necessarily work for every skin type.
It's generally most popular among people with:
People with very oily or acne-prone skin often prefer lighter moisturizing methods.
That doesn't automatically mean slugging is a bad choice for oily skin. Every person's skin responds differently.
Slugging is often discussed as a way to support the skin barrier.
If your skin is irritated, overly dry, or exposed to harsh conditions—such as cold winter weather or after a period of intensive exfoliation—reducing moisture loss may help improve comfort while your skin recovers.
That's why slugging is frequently recommended for sensitive skin or a compromised skin barrier.
It doesn't have to be done every night, though. Many people only use it occasionally when their skin needs extra support.
There are plenty of myths surrounding petroleum jelly.
Some people worry that it clogs pores or prevents the skin from "breathing." In reality, petroleum jelly is one of the oldest and best-studied ingredients used in skincare.
That said, every skin type is different.
If you're prone to clogged pores or find that heavy products don't work well for your skin, slugging may not be the best option for you.
Its simplicity is one of the biggest reasons for its popularity.
Slugging isn't a complete skincare routine—it's simply the final step of your nighttime skincare routine.
First, cleanse your skin. Next, apply your usual hydrating products. Finally, seal everything in with a thin layer of an occlusive product.
The goal isn't to create a thick mask but to help your skin retain moisture while you sleep.
Not necessarily.
That's an important point.
Slugging isn't an essential part of skincare, nor is it required for healthy skin. Many people achieve excellent results with nothing more than a well-formulated moisturizer.
It's best viewed as an optional technique rather than a universal solution.
For some, it becomes a favorite part of their routine. Others try it a few times and decide it doesn't make a noticeable difference.
Both experiences are completely valid.
Interestingly, although slugging isn't exclusively a Korean skincare practice, it fits very well with the philosophy behind Korean skincare.
K-beauty has long emphasized hydration, strengthening the skin barrier, and preventing skin concerns rather than relying on aggressive treatments.
That's one reason why slugging has become so popular among people interested in Korean skincare.
Slugging is a simple technique designed to help your skin retain moisture more effectively overnight. It's not a miracle cure or a required step in every skincare routine, but it can be a helpful addition for certain skin types.
It's especially popular among people with dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin. At the same time, there's no single skincare method that's right for everyone.
As with most skincare trends, the best approach is simple: listen to your skin, pay attention to its needs, and choose the products and techniques that genuinely work for you.
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