Slugging Skincare has been trending for almost a year now, its popularity increased with TikTok and IG posts and much is talked about in the world of beauty and skin care.
What is Slugging Skincare?
Slugging Skincare is a gift from K Beauty Care, it entails the application of a thick layer of Vaseline on the face and it gives a shine to the face that looks like the shiny slimy slug and there came the name Slugging. It was initially done by people who had dry, irritated, and damaged skin, but it soon became a frequent routine by all for a supple complexion.
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The Science Behind Slugging
The layer of Vaseline forms an occlusive covering on the skin which prevents transepidermal water loss and this keeps the skin well hydrated and moisturized. The skin barrier the topmost layer of the skin gets damaged over the period because of sun damage, environment, pollution, extreme weather and temperature changes, and constant use of cosmetics. This leads to the loss of ceramides and the lipid complex of the skin barrier. The Vaseline application forms a thick layer over the outer layer of skin, a kind of seal, that prevents water loss, keeps the skin well moisturized and hydrated, and results in repair of the damaged skin.
Addressing Concerns and Considerations
The main concern for Slugging is the risk of developing pimples and comedones. Vaseline is pretty safe, you would be surprised to know that Vaseline is noncomedogenic and shall not clog the pores. Hence, if you have dry skin, you don’t have to worry about any acne breakouts blackheads, or whiteheads. But if you have oily skin or you are prone to pimples, then you are not a candidate for slugging. The occlusive film formed by Vaseline will lead to oil accumulation which will lead to Acne formation. Even for people with dry skin, I would suggest the use of moisturizers rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
How do you properly slug?
After washing the face at night, apply a good layer of Vaseline on the face and neck, when it’s still damp, it should be sufficient to cover the entire face and neck, you do not have to overdo it. Leave it overnight, and wash your face well in the morning to remove the Vaseline. For a beginner or if you do not like the stickiness, you can leave it on for a few hours and then wash it off. The night you plan to do slugging do not use any of the other night creams.
Is slugging bad for dry skin?
Slugging works well for dry skin damaged from overzealous retinoids/face peels/scrubs/home remedies. If you have irritated skin with burning and rashes/redness on your face, do visit your dermatologist or do an online consultation with your doctor, before trying it on your own, as it may harm than do any good. The Acne Specialist doctor and the Skin Specialist Doctor in Ludhiana may also help in choosing the right product for slugging.
Personal Perspectives on Slugging
I have never been fond of Vaseline as a product, which could be because it’s a petroleum-based cream. If I ever have to do slugging, then I would use a moisturizer rich in hyaluronic acid and ceramides. I have come across people who apply almond oil or coconut oil on their face and hence that is another good option. Though I have never used oil on my face despite having dry skin, I have seen people with good hydrated complexions after oil use. Winters are a good time to do slugging, you can do it as often as required. I would not recommend it in hot and humid climates and for those who have oily skin and pimple-prone skin.
Happy Slugging.
Name: Dr. Jastinder Gill
Address: House no. 3, 3, I – Block, Sarabha Nagar, Ludhiana, Punjab 141001
Phone: 9815473775