Slugging is the newfound Korean beauty trend to achieve glossy skin like K-pop idols. Similar to other clever beauty hacks, this Korean skincare trend was brought to the limelight by TikTok. However, slugging failed to roar like other Korean beauty trends like mirror skin, blurring, jamsu, or fruit juice makeup.
First originated in South Korea, Western society is finally taking an interest in slugging skincare. Many beauty experts and dermatologists are weighing in on the benefits and side effects of slugging. Moving ahead, let’s learn more about the slugging technique and if it ‘really’ delivers the beauty benefits it promises.
What is Slugging?
This unusual Korean skincare technique involves the use of petroleum jelly to achieve and maintain glass skin. A layer of vaseline or petroleum jelly is applied after the 5 or 10-step skincare regimen to lock in the skincare products. While slugging works for every skin type, it is especially beneficial for dry, irritated, and eczematous skin.
Further, it promotes hydration and prevents trans-epidermal water loss. It makes the skincare routine more effective, resulting in glossy, plump, and dewy skin the next morning. In short, slugging is the last step before bed, serving as a protectant to lock in moisture.
On top of that, there is no need to find the best slugging products as it only requires investing in an affordable Vaseline. Spending a few bucks on petroleum jelly is definitely worth it as it amplifies the results of the Korean skincare routine.
How Does Slugging Work?
Slugging skincare routine promotes hydration and leaves a subtle glow. Wrapping the skin with a layer of petroleum jelly insulates and seals in moisture. This skincare routine is effective during winter months when the skin is dry and tight.
It creates a strong barrier to prevent water from evaporating. With age, the skin’s tendency to lose water reduces. Slugging helps in binding water and achieving a glossy skin effect.
How is Slugging Different From Moisturizing?
Contrary to popular belief, skin slugging is not the same as regular moisturizing. While moisturizers leave a hydrated sheen, petroleum jelly is occlusive. For those of you who do not know, petroleum-based products are non-breathable and prevent transepidermal moisture loss.
While these terms are often used interchangeably, these products have different functions to perform. Petroleum jelly helps in retaining moisture. Instead of moisturizing the skin, it enhances the effectiveness of a moisturizer.
Skin Slugging Benefits
Besides baby-soft, glossy skin, a slugging skincare routine has the following benefits
- Prevents Moisture Loss – Petroleum-based products create a barrier to not letting moisture escape. In addition to preventing transepidermal water loss, it protects the natural lipid barrier of the skin responsible for binding skin cells together.
- Repairs Lipid Barrier – Skin is more likely to become dry and damaged when the lipid barrier is compromised. When the aforesaid barrier is weak or not performing well, slugging takes on the job and tries to restore the skin’s balance by improving the moisture level.
- Boosts the Effectiveness of Skincare – This technique locks in the cosmetic product, giving it more time to do its magic without oxidizing. You can get the most out of skincare products when it comes to suppleness, firmness, and hydration.
- Combats Dryness – It almost works like magic for people with extremely dry skin. Since it artificially repairs the lipid barrier and prevents moisture loss, slugging is quite beneficial in improving moisture levels and overall texture.
Skin Slugging Methods
Currently, beauty influencers are promoting two popular methods to slug skin.
- Vaseline Method – In this method, petroleum jelly, an efficient sealing agent, is used as a last step of the nighttime skincare routine. This traps the product and moisture for a longer time. This slugging skincare routine is better suited for people with dehydrated and aging skin.
- Layering Method – Instead of Vaseline, it involves using multiple creams as a final step in the skincare regimen. Unlike the aforementioned slugging method, its benefits are not limited to sealing moisture. You will get the benefits of the skincare products used as a final slugging step as well. Plus, this method is customizable and works for all types of skin.
How to Do Slugging?
This technique does not involve complicated steps or expensive products. It can be easily performed to get desired results.
- Start with a two-step Korean cleansing routine to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil.
- Next, apply a skin-refreshing toner or essence followed by hydrating serum or moisturizer.
- After gently massaging the skin for a few seconds, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the skin.
- Rinse it off the next morning and witness the dazzling glow.
Don’ts of Slugging
- Slugging is not better suited for oily and acne-prone skin. Locking excessive sebum and oil may flare up acne or result in acne breakouts.
- Since petroleum jelly is non-breathable, it may clog pores especially when used with products having retinol, AHAs, and BHAs.
- It is advised not to slug every day, preferably twice a week.
- Slugging should only be a part of the evening skincare routine. Slugging during the day may affect the working of the natural inter-cellular lipid production.
- Make sure to cleanse your skin before slugging to avoid breakouts or any skin issues.
Wrap Up
Lastly, invest in quality petroleum jelly, ideally, triple-refined products. Also, be consistent with slugging as your skin would not get repaired overnight. It may take 4-6 weeks to get the desired results.
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