What is Slugging in Skincare and How to Do It

Slugging is a skincare trend that has gained popularity for its simple approach to helping maintain skin hydration overnight. Often used by those with dry or dehydrated skin, it involves applying an occlusive product as the final step in an evening skincare routine¹.

While slugging may help reduce moisture loss and support skin comfort, it is not suitable for all skin types, so understanding how it works and when to use it is important for achieving the best results. In this guide, we explain what slugging means, its potential benefits and limitations, who it may be suitable for, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine, including the role of Aquaphor Healing Ointment^®.

Slugging is a skincare method that involves applying an occlusive balm or ointment as the final step in a nighttime skincare routine. The term "slugging" comes from the dewy or glossy appearance the skin may have after application and has become a popular approach for helping to maintain skin hydration overnight¹.

Slugging is based on the principle of reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), the natural process by which water evaporates from the skin². By applying an occlusive balm or ointment as the final step in a nighttime skincare routine, a layer is formed on the skin's surface that can help limit moisture loss and support hydration retention overnight³, particularly when the skin feels dry.

Slugging may offer benefits for certain skin types, particularly when the skin feels dry or uncomfortable². However, results can vary from person to person, and the technique may not be suitable for everyone.

Slugging can offer several benefits for dry   skin, particularly when used as part of an evening skincare routine³:

• May help reduce moisture loss overnight: Helping the skin retain hydration while you sleep.
• Can support skin comfort: Particularly when the skin feels dry or exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
• May leave skin feeling softer: Helping improve the feeling of dryness or roughness.
• Helps support the final step of a skincare routine: Helping maintain the hydration provided by previously applied products.

While slugging may be beneficial for some skin types, there are a few considerations depending on individual skin needs and preferences⁴:

• May feel rich or heavy on the skin: Particularly for those who prefer lightweight skincare products.
• Can require some trial and adjustment: Different skin types may respond differently to occlusive products.
• May not suit everyone: Individual preferences and skin needs should always be considered.

Slugging is most commonly used by people with skin that feels dry or in need of additional comfort, particularly in response to environmental factors²:

• Dry skin
• Skin that feels temporarily tight or uncomfortable
• Skin exposed to cold, wind, or low-humidity environments

Slugging is not exclusively designed for dry skin, but it may feel too rich for some people with oily or blemish-prone skin¹. Because individual skin responses can vary, it may be helpful to introduce slugging gradually and monitor how your skin feels.

Depending on the product used, slugging does not necessarily clog pores. However, applying a rich occlusive product may not feel comfortable for everyone, particularly those who are prone to congestion or frequent breakouts¹. Choosing a suitable product, applying a thin layer, and paying attention to how your skin responds will help determine whether slugging is appropriate for your routine.

If you are unsure whether slugging is suitable for your skin, consider seeking advice from a dermatologist.

Not all skincare products are suitable for slugging. The most appropriate options are typically occlusive products that help reduce moisture loss and support skin comfort overnight.

Look for a slugging product that contains a formula with ingredients that help support the skin’s natural moisture balance:

• Occlusive ingredients: Help reduce moisture loss by forming a protective layer on the skin².
• Glycerin: Helps attract and retain moisture in the skin⁵.
• Panthenol: Helps support skin comfort and care for dry or stressed areas⁶.

Aquaphor Healing Ointment^® is a water-free ointment designed to care for very dry, cracked or irritated skin. It forms a semi-occlusive protective layer on the skin’s surface, helping to reduce moisture loss and support skin comfort overnight. The formula contains Glycerin and Panthenol to moisturize, nourish and protect the skin to enhance healing, and is preservative and fragrance-free.

Slugging is typically performed as the final step in an evening skincare routine, after the skin has been cleansed and hydrated¹. Applying products in the correct order helps ensure the skin is properly prepared and able to retain moisture overnight.

Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup, SPF, and impurities. Clean skin provides a suitable base for the rest of your evening skincare routine.

After cleansing and drying your skin, apply a moisturizer to your skin. This step supports the skin’s hydration levels before an occlusive product is applied.

Aquaphor^® Hydrating Daily Lotion is a face and body moisturizer that’s clinically tested to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, providing 72 hours of breathable, smooth hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula enriched with 6% Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Glycerin. This hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic lotion is free of fragrance, parabens, and dyes and is accepted by the National Eczema Association (NEA). Formulated for normal to dry skin, and appropriate for sensitive skin, this non-greasy moisturizer absorbs quickly into the skin and is great for daily skincare.

If you prefer a richer formula for dry or dry and sensitive skin, try Aquaphor^® Moisturizing Cream. Its formula enriched with 9% Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Shea Butter, and Glycerin has been clinically tested to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and provides 48 hours of breathable, silky moisture. This lightweight, non-greasy moisturizing cream for face and body instantly soothes and nourishes skin, and is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.

Apply a thin, even layer of Aquaphor Healing Ointment^® to areas that feel dry or need additional comfort. As a semi-occlusive ointment, it forms a protective layer on the skin’s surface to help reduce moisture loss overnight. When applying Aquaphor Healing Ointment^® to your face, be sure to avoid getting it in your eyes.

Leave the product on overnight to support hydration retention. In the morning, cleanse the skin as usual and continue with your regular skincare routine.

Slugging should be tailored to individual skin needs and how the skin responds. Some people may choose to use it a few times per week, while others may prefer occasional use when the skin feels particularly dry or in need of additional comfort⁷.

Slugging can also be used on areas of the body that feel very dry or rough, such as the hands, elbows, knees, and heels. Applying an occlusive layer to these areas may help reduce moisture loss and support skin comfort, particularly in dry or cold conditions².

Slugging is a skincare technique that involves applying an occlusive product as the final step in an evening routine to help reduce moisture loss and support skin hydration overnight. It may be particularly suitable for dry skin, although it is not appropriate for all skin types and should be adapted based on individual skin needs and comfort. When used appropriately, slugging can be a helpful addition to a skincare routine focused on maintaining hydration and supporting overall skin comfort.

Ready to try slugging with Aquaphor^®? Try Aquaphor Healing Ointment^®, available in several convenient sizes and formats to suit your skin and your lifestyle.

The information provided herein is not intended to be medical advice. Nor is it intended to treat the underlying skin disease or condition. The information is provided solely to:

1. Moisturize, soften and smooth dry skin
2. Improve the appearance of the skin
3. Achieve healthier-looking skin