Slugging 101
The science and steps behind the latest skincare craze
Written by Lily Mihelich, Contributing Writer
We've all endured Wisconsin's frigid winters, and it's safe to say these temperatures take a toll on our skincare regimens. The daily shift from sporting an adorable après ski puffer coat to a mattress-sized parka signifies just how quickly the weather affects our fashion, but we often neglect the health and DNA of our skin.
TikTok's newest skin craze, slugging, is sure to have appeared on your ‘For You’ Page, but is it possible that this slimy technique could solve your winter skin troubles? Korean beauty trends continue to enlighten the world of skincare, and sluggings' simple steps might just be your winter savior, but how do you know if this technique isn't another trend to satisfy unattainable skin standards? And how does it function?
Slugging is not a new trend. The history of formulating a skin barrier is vast and wide, and "Chok Chok" skin, the South Korean term for deeply moisturized and glowing skin, is most certainly not a new concept. While slugging is not a fad, it's important to remember that social media trends are not suitable for everyone. Individuals with chronic acne or bacterial buildup may suffer breakouts from slugging because it seals in everything that lies on our skin's surface before we lather up and go to bed. Oily skin types may find that slugging isn't effective or necessary (Steenhart, 2021). Skin types vary from person to person, you should consult a doctor if you find that the slugging process may interfere with your skin's health.
What is the science behind the slug? Slugging, taking after the slimy mollusk, is the process of lathering a heavy sealant, in the form of a petroleum moisturizer over your existing skincare routine. Each of us has what is known as a skin barrier, or in technical terms, our stratum corneum. This top layer serves as a barricade to antigens that we face daily, such as dirt, air pollution, the sun and even the cold weather, which actively breaks down our moisture barrier (Stanborough, 2021).
This barrier is protected by a layer of fatty acid but is weakened when our skin is worn out by pathogens, including the dryness of the Wisconsin air (Hussain, 2019). Slugging aids in our skin's absorption of our serums, moisturizers and toners by creating an inescapable wall. So, the next time you spend your day huffing up Bascom Hill with dry lips and cracked skin, consider slugging afterward.
Simple Slugging Steps:
1) Cleanse your face.
It is recommended that you cleanse with a gentle product. I like to cleanse for at least two minutes, ensuring that any bacteria or buildup is absent before I continue with my routine.
2) Add your supplemental products.
A common order for product application is from the thinnest to thickest consistency.
One of the best ways to solidify the effectiveness of slugging is by applying Hyaluronic acid after your cleanse. Hyaluronic acid's purpose is to replenish the natural fatty acids in our skin and aid its natural process of moisture reuptake (Julson, 2018).
3) Apply your Slugging Barrier.
Apply as much as you want without feeling uncomfortable overnight. I would recommend a thin layer, these lotions are naturally very thick.
Drugstore Products that meet slugging criteria include Aquaphor, Vaseline, or the CeraVe Healing Ointment. More expensive products and mineral oils are just as effective.
4) Tie your hair up however you'd prefer.
You may find that you get a little residue on your pillow, but these products are easy to wash out of sheets!
5) Wake up and cleanse.
Wash off the excess jelly and replenish with your favorite morning cleanser. Your skin should feel extremely moisturized. It is important to let your skin breathe following the slug, I like to go makeup-free after slugging.
Sources:
Steenhart, J. ( 2021, October 27). A layer of Vaseline: Does the South Korean skincare craze 'slugging' work? Stuff.
Stanborough, R. (2020, September 16). What to Know About Your Skin Barrier and How to Protect It. Healthline.
Hussain, P. (2019). Is a Damaged Skin Barrier Standing Between You and Your Skin Goals? The Klog.
Julson, E. (2018, April 21). 7 Surprising Benefits of Using Hyaluronic Acid. Healthline.