No slugs are harmed in the process of slugging. Additionally, we advise you not to buy or catch slugs to follow this trend, it might get slimy and uncomfortable!
The process of slugging does not actually involve any slugs or snails. It is the act of slathering thick creams such as vaseline on your face before bed.
This makes the skin appear glossy and oily which gives off the appearance of snail slime. Vaseline is inexpensive and a common household item, so practically anyone can slug.
However, is slugging for everyone? The only thing I have slugged before bed is my feet, and it does wonders! Overall, dermatologists seem to agree that Vaseline is good for your skin, as it does not clog pores.
Although, those with acne prone or oily skin are advised to use this method cautiously to avoid further inflammation.
Keep reading for the benefits of slugging and how to avoid irritating your skin!
Slugging keeps dry skin in check
The skin becomes dry due to humidity or a product causing water to evaporate from the skin. This is called trans-epidermal water loss. Slugging prevents this from happening by coating the skin and sealing hydration in.
Vaseline is one of the most sealing products. It is said to not directly be responsible for inflammation, but rather the cleanliness of your skin, and the product used beforehand will likely be the cause.
Sealing in excess bacteria, dirt and irritating products will leave you hating this beauty hack.
The skin becomes softer with slugging
When people refer to slugging, the focus is usually on the face. In fact, those who slugged before it became a term attribute their soft, wrinkle-free skin to this routine.
However, if you suffer from callused skin on the hands and feet, nightly exfoliating, moisturizing and slugging with Vaseline, Albolene, or Aquafor will soften these areas.
The skin on the sole is generally less sensitive than on the face, so you can combine occlusive products in these areas with little to no agitation.
To take it a step further, you can cover your feet with plush moisture infused socks sold by Therawell or Earth Therapeutics. This will keep the product from getting on your sheets, and get to the desired results faster.
Slugging for oily skin
If you have oily skin, you may feel naturally slugged. Some experts suggest excess sebum is due to your skin overcompensating for a lack of moisture. Your skin could show improvement from slugging if the cause is lack of hydration. On the other hand, genetics could be the main factor.
The downside of applying these heavy occlusives on oily skin is the increased feel of greasiness on the face.
There is no way to determine how it will react on your skin unless you give it a try. Test a small area for a week before applying to the entire face. Additionally, apply a thin layer to avoid that extra grimy feeling.
How to Slug
Before you begin the slugging process, make sure your face is properly cleansed. After washing your face with a cleanser, wipe your face with a non-comedogenic alcohol free toner. This will remove any excess residue from your skin.
Avoid applying active ingredients on your skin such as bha, aha, and retnoids. This will increase the strength of the active and lead to inflammation.
Apply a hydrating agent to the skin. You can mist your face with water and apply hyaluronic acid or a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Next, began slugging Vaseline or Aquafor on your face.
You should avoid doing this often, unless you’re prepared to stay washing your pillow cases and sheets. Alternate days if you need to incorporate active ingredients in your nightly skincare routine.
Final Thoughts
Slugging is an effective method to soften your hands and feet. Applying occlusive products on the face can either be risky or rewarding depending on the condition of your skin.
Skin that is constantly dry can maintain moisture and revitalize using this method. Skin that is prone to breakouts could produce further breakouts from trapping in bacteria.
When it comes to slugging you have options. The most common product to slug with is Vaseline, although any non-comedogenic occlusive such as Aquafor will be a compatible replacement.
2 thoughts