When it comes to skincare practices that promise to super-boost hydration, few have gained as much viral traction (and as many loyal supporters) of late as something called skin slugging. The technique takes its name from the slimy trail left behind by—you guessed it—slugs. Gross as it may sound, the result is often dewy and glowy morning skin.
What is skin slugging?
Skin slugging involves lathering the face with petroleum jelly or another occlusive overnight.
While slugging has only recently become a mainstay within social media feeds, it’s important to note that Black women have been using petroleum jelly on their complexions for generations. This means that it’s not a new skincare “trend,” but rather a tried and true method that’s only now gaining widespread attention.
The power of slugging lies in the fact that products that contain significant amounts of petrolatum are occlusive, meaning they act like a barrier and help prevent water from evaporating from the surface of the skin. In other words, everything on your face gets bubble wrapped in when the petroleum jelly is applied, including natural moisture and whatever products you might have applied beforehand.
How to Avoid Transepidermal Water Loss (+ how to do skin slugging)
To give slugging a try, thoroughly cleanse your face and apply your favorite serums and moisturizer, then layer the petroleum jelly on top. Products with active ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or retinoids should be avoided, as slugging can cause increased irritation. Allow 30 minutes for the products to sink in before getting into bed and lay a towel or other linen over your pillow to absorb the excess. Finally, be sure to thoroughly wash your face the morning after trying the technique.
Youth to the People’s Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask is a hydrating and effective alternative that is suitable for all skin types. An overnight mask that contains hydrating squalane as well as a stabilized form of vitamin C and antioxidant-rich superberry extracts, it seals in moisture without any greasiness and helps visibly brighten the skin.
To use the Dream Mask, simply apply a layer to freshly cleansed skin before bed and let it work its magic. You can also layer it over a moisturizer like YTTP Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream and a few drops of YTTP Superberry Hydrate and Glow Dream Oil.
Written by Ariana Marsh for Youth To The People
