Slugging: The skincare trend to try tonight

What is slugging, and what are the best products to use? Learn more about the skincare trend and discover natural, hydrating formulas to try at home.

While browsing your socials, you’ve probably come across 'slugging' – the new K-beauty skincare trend taking the world by storm. Now, you'd be forgiven for thinking this was some oddity based on actual slugs (snail slime facial, anyone?), but don't fear – the plant-munching molluscs only provide the name of this trend. 

So, what is slugging? And what are the best products to use? Read on to discover everything you need to know about this hydrating treatment.

How does slugging work?

Slugging is the act of coating your face in a thin layer of natural moisturiser – particularly an 'occlusive' moisturiser, which strengthens your skin barrier and prevents transepidermal water loss. Occlusive ingredients include petroleum jelly, silicone, mineral oil, dimethicone, lanolin and waxes… which aren’t the most natural or eco-friendly of ingredients. But stay with us, as we've got some greener, natural alternatives to choose from below. 

What is the  slugging  method?

There are two main ways of slugging: the usual overnight method, and the short-contact version. To really make the most of your beauty sleep,  applying the treatment just before bed is the preferred option – but be prepared for your pillow to stick to your face.  

To  slug overnight, practise your normal skincare routine, but don't apply any face oils or your usual moisturiser. Instead, spread a small amount of occlusive moisturiser over your face to form a thin layer. In the morning, cleanse your face with our Smoothing Cleanser Complexion Purifier and feel the sweet relief of dewy, plump skin (and consider washing your pillowcase). 

If a sticky sleep isn't your jam, try the short-contact slug. With this method, the same rules apply, but only do it for a few hours before washing the treatment off before bed. 

How long should you  slug  for?

Those with dry skin might see dewy, glowing results in as little as a week – but it's recommended that you do it consistently for four to six weeks. If your skin is thriving with your new routine, stick with it! 

What products should I use for  slugging?

As you'll see on Reddit threads and TikTok videos, slugging with Vaseline is the most popular option for locking in skin hydration, owing to the petroleum jelly in this product. However, Vaseline isn't for everyone – especially if you love greener beauty buys.  

If you're wondering what to use for a more natural version, opt for products containing plant oils and butters. Our Skin Dream Firming Night Cream is packed with shea and murumuru butters, while Skin Feast Nourishing Moisturiser overflows with berry seed oils for deep hydration. 

What  type of products should you avoid when  slugging?

In recent years, the use of retinol-based natural serums has soared in our quests to lessen the signs of ageing. We've become such converts that the question 'can you slug with retinol?' is a trending search term online, but using retinol when slugging is hugely discouraged. The method essentially traps retinols under a layer of moisturiser, causing these potent formulas to irritate the skin. It's also advisable not to use acid-based serums with active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).

What  skin  types is  slugging  good for?

If you've got dry skin, then you have the most to gain. The intense hydration will lock in moisture and leave your skin feeling silky soft. Every skin type can give slugging a go, but if you have oily skin, there are a few factors to bear in mind. 

Is  slugging  good for  oily  skin?

It can be hit-and-miss for this skin type. If you have combination skin or areas of oiliness, monitor your reactions and adjust your routine as you see fit. Some occlusive moisturisers will trap oils, irritating hair follicles on your face and contributing to acne. If you find that the product you're using is stimulating spots, try a thinner formula which will still help to repair a damaged skin barrier: opt for products containing hyaluronic acid, such as our Rainforest Dew Hydration Serum.

Does  slugging  help with wrinkles?

The short answer is, yes! As we age, our skin becomes less able to hydrate and repair itself, causing wrinkles. With this method, the moisturiser strengthens the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss for plump, healthy skin. 

Can you try  slugging  elsewhere on the body?

Practise this treatment around the eyes to reduce fine lines: try our Eye Dream Firming Overnight Butterbalm for plump, perky peepers. You can also try 'body slugging' by using occlusive moisturiser on dry parts of your body, such as the elbows, knees, hands and feet. Our Body Love Firming Buttercream is packed with shea butter and coconut oil for an intense hydration hit, while our Whipped Body Velvet Intensely Rich Buttermelt seals up cracks in the skin barrier, leaving you feeling silky smooth.  

Another trend emerging recently is 'hair slugging' – so, how do you slug hair? Simply coat your tresses in oil or a hair mask before bed and wrap your hair up while you sleep. The aim is to deeply nourish your strands in the same way that skin slugging hydrates your face. Try our Hair Smooth Radiance Oil and Hair Feast Deep Conditioning Treatment for luscious locks that softly shine. 

The verdict: does  slugging  work?

Dry and ageing skin types should see a noticeable difference after slugging for four to six weeks. If it doesn't work for you, try using a less occlusive moisturiser, such as a hyaluronic acid-based product or ceramide, and consider reducing the number of times you do it each week. If you're still experiencing skincare problems after a couple of months, it's always best to visit a dermatologist for a personalised, expert opinion. 

We’re more than ready for a slugging routine to become our skincare staple – join the fun and treat your face, body, and hair to our nourishing formulas tonight!


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