Could Oil Massages Help Achieve a Smooth Complexion?
Hey, ready to dive into the slugging skincare hack? This trend is all about smothering your face with an occlusive emollient cream, like Vaseline or Aquaphor, before hitting the sack. The goal? Retain maximum moisture and wake up with baby-soft, healthy skin.
TikTokers, Redditors, and K-beauty fans swear by this sticky secret. It's like sleeping as a slug, but with major glow-up benefits! So, what exactly is slugging, and does it actually work? Let's find out!

Slugging is the process of coating your skin with a thick occlusive cream. This magic potion helps reduce trans-epidermal water loss, keeping moisture locked in and protective barriers intact. Basically, it's your hero product for keeping serums from evaporating and keeping out dry air from cranky heaters. It's also been used in dermatology for decades, with petrolatum often recommended for dry winter days and conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Research suggests that slugging helps replenish the lipids in your skin, aiding in barrier repair. The result? Softer, more radiant skin as you wake up, maybe with a bit of shiny delight from your pillowcase! A small 2016 study also shows that petrolatum boosts peptide regulation on the skin's surface, which is promising for collagen and elastin production. Win-win!

So, if you have atopic dermatitis, eczema, dry skin, or live in a cold, dry climate, slugging might be your new bestie. But it may not be ideal for oilier skin types, as it can exacerbate existing issues.

Now that you know the lowdown on slugging, let's chat about popular products for your new nightly routine:- Vaseline: budget-friendly, 100% pure petroleum jelly and a top pick from dermatologists.- Aquaphor: a little pricier, but a favorite among derms thanks to its hydrating ingredients.- CeraVe Healing Ointment: contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides, giving your skin an additional moisture boost.- Cetaphil Healing Ointment: hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-recommended, perfect for super dry skin.
Ready to slug it out? Cleanse your face, opt for toner if you have dry skin, apply your serum of choice, and moisturize (optional). Next, get slugging! Apply your favorite occlusive cream to your T-zone and gently spread it out. If your skin is still dry, add more. As always, be mindful of your skin's unique needs.
When it comes to slugging, your sebum's the limit. If your skin is looking like an oil slick during your slugging days, give it a break. And if your skin is loving the slug life, keep on glowing!
In conclusion, slugging is a modern skincare trend that harnesses the power of occlusive products to retain moisture and protect skin. While it's not right for everyone, it can be an effective tool for those with dry skin, eczema, or who live in harsh climates. As always, consult a dermatologist if you have concerns or questions about introducing slugging to your routine! 🐌
TikTokers, Redditors, and K-beauty fans suggest skipping products that could clog pores during slugging, as the goal is to maintain healthy, moisturized skin. Months of consistent slugging with a thick occlusive cream like Vaseline or Aquaphor could result in skin that radiates with a dewy glow. If your skin is oilier, you might want to skip slugging to prevent excess oil production.