Are you a fervent user of natural skincare concoctions, diving into a world of serums, exfoliants, and oils, yet find your skin still grappling with dryness, lacklustre appearance, or uneven texture? If so, a skincare hack called “slugging” might revolutionize your routine. This method involves strategically applying dense ointment over lighter products, effectively creating a seal to lock in their benefits.
But does slugging truly deliver the promised results? While comprehensive studies dedicated solely to its efficacy are scarce, emerging evidence suggests its potential advantages.
What is Slugging?
Imagine your skincare routine as a delicious layered cake. Slugging is like the icing on top, sealing in all the goodness underneath. It involves applying a thick, occlusive product over your skincare layers to lock in moisture and enhance their effectiveness.
The Science Behind Slugging
Occlusives, such as petroleum jelly or Vaseline, create a barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing water loss and promoting hydration. This barrier also helps other skincare ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin, maximizing their benefits.
Benefits of Slugging
1. Hydrates and Soothes:
Slugging aids in imparting a smoother, softer, and more even complexion by combating dryness. Occlusives like Vaseline lock in moisture, preventing oils and water from escaping the skin, thereby addressing the root cause of dryness.
For optimal hydration, coupling an occlusive with a moisturizer is paramount. While occlusives themselves don’t hydrate the skin, they facilitate the moisturizer’s efficacy and aid in repairing the skin’s barrier.
To execute slugging effectively, begin with a clean canvas of moisturized skin and apply an occlusive to achieve a radiant complexion.
2. Enhances Skincare Efficacy:
Slugging serves as a catalyst for maximizing the benefits of your skincare regimen, especially if you invest in premium serums and toners. Occlusives enhance the efficacy of skincare ingredients, such as vitamin C serum, antioxidants, and peptides, fostering a luminous and youthful visage.
Whether your skincare goals involve combating signs of ageing or addressing hyperpigmentation, incorporating slugging can bolster your efforts. Pair the occlusive, like Vaseline, with high-quality products tailored to your skin type and objectives.
(Consider exfoliating the skin beforehand to eliminate toxins and impurities. Natural exfoliants like the pumice stone and dry brushing can be effective.)
3. Improves Skin Barrier:
Slugging emerges as a saviour for individuals grappling with sensitive skin prone to redness, flakiness, or irritation, including those afflicted with eczema or dermatitis. This practice aids in fortifying a compromised skin barrier, shielding it from external aggressors while amplifying the efficacy of soothing skincare ingredients.
Moreover, slugging isn’t restricted to facial skincare alone; it can extend to other parts afflicted with irritation, dryness, or chafing. Consider incorporating slugging into your post-shower or pre-swim routine to mitigate discomfort or prevent rashes caused by chlorine exposure.
How to Incorporate Slugging into Your Routine
After cleansing and applying your serums and moisturizers, gently layer on a thin coat of your chosen occlusive, focusing on areas prone to dryness.
Choosing the Right Products for Slugging
Among the array of occlusive options, which reigns supreme?
Common occlusive contenders include:
- Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
- Lanolin
- Beeswax
- Olive oil
- Avocado oil
Petroleum jelly, celebrated for its ubiquity and affordability, stands out as a crowd favorite. Renowned for its prowess in curbing water loss, Vaseline boasts a remarkable ability to reduce transepidermal water loss by up to 98%.
Frequency of Slugging
The frequency of slugging depends on your skin type and the climate. While dry skin may benefit from daily slugging, oily skin types might find it sufficient to slug a few times a week.
What to Avoid When Slugging
However, in the pursuit of radiant skin, certain pitfalls warrant avoidance:
- Neglecting Skin Cleansing: Slugging over uncleansed skin can pave the way for oiliness and breakouts, as it traps dirt and bacteria within the pores. Prioritize thorough skin cleansing before embarking on your slugging ritual.
- Steering Clear of Unsuitable Products: Exercise caution when selecting skincare products for slugging. Avoid comedogenic substances like coconut oil, notorious for exacerbating acne breakouts. Likewise, tread cautiously with retinoids and facial acids, which may instigate irritation when paired with slugging.
Who Should Consider Slugging?
Slugging is suitable for anyone looking to combat dryness, soothe irritation, or enhance their skincare routine’s efficacy. However, those with acne-prone skin should proceed with caution.
Tips for Effective Slugging
Ensure your skin is clean and moisturized before slugging. Experiment with different occlusives and adjust the frequency based on your skin’s response. Remember, consistency is key!
Conclusion
In conclusion, slugging is more than just a quirky skincare trend—it’s a game-changer for achieving plump, hydrated skin. By incorporating this simple yet effective technique into your routine, you can unlock a whole new level of skincare benefits.
FAQs About Slugging
1. Can slugging worsen acne?
Slugging itself is non-comedogenic, but using the wrong products or slugging over unclean skin may exacerbate breakouts.
2. How often should I slug?
The frequency of slugging varies based on individual skin needs. Start with a few times a week and adjust accordingly.
3. Can I slug in the morning?
While slugging is typically done at night due to its shiny appearance, you can experiment with daytime slugging if it suits your preferences.
4. Is slugging suitable for sensitive skin?
Slugging can benefit sensitive skin by providing a protective barrier and preventing moisture loss.
5. Can I slug on areas other than my face?
Absolutely! Slugging can be applied to any dry or irritated body areas, such as elbows, knees, or heels, for added hydration and protection.