Slugging: What You Should Know About the TikTok Skin Hack

Of all the weird skincare hacks that have surfaced on the internet, “slugging” is actually one of the more tame ones. Despite the name—which gives me mental pictures of slathering my face in slug slime—this K-beauty skincare trend isn’t quite as gross as it sounds. Instead, it’s actually an easy moisturization technique that skincare enthusiasts claim is the secret to plump, dewy, perfectly hydrated skin. Ahead, everything you need to know about slugging.

What is slugging?

Popularized by skincare buffs on Reddit (and now having a viral moment on TikTok), slugging involves sealing in all of your skincare products with a layer of Vaseline or petroleum jelly, usually at night before bed. The name comes from how you look after slugging—slick, slimy, and downright slug-like. (There’s even a hashtag for it: #sluglife)

How does it work?

Unlike some internet skincare tricks, there’s actually some science to back slugging up. By applying an occlusive layer as the final step in your routine, you’re helping to seal in your skincare, reinforce your skin barrier, and prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The result? Soft, hydrated skin with fewer dry, flaky patches.

Who is it for?

Anyone with dry or dehydrated skin can benefit from slugging—even if you’re acne-prone. One of the biggest misconceptions about petroleum jelly (aka petrolatum) is that it clogs pores. In fact, it’s non-comedogenic. That said, everyone’s skin is different, and some people do find it too heavy for their skin, so be sure to patch-test first.

What do I need to get started?

All you need is an occlusive, petrolatum-based moisturizer to get started. Vaseline, Aquaphor, or generic petroleum jelly all work. If you really want to treat yourself, I’m a big fan of Chemist Confessions Balm Voyage, which is petrolatum blended with squalane, ceramides, and other skin-friendly occlusives.

Tips and tricks for slugging

Slugging has been a part of my night routine for several months now, so I have some tips and tricks to share.

• You only need a light layer of your occlusive to seal everything in—usually a pea-sized amount of petroleum jelly.

• Use a pillowcase you don’t care about. Unless you’re a committed back sleeper, you’ll get Vaseline on your pillow—it’s just a fact of life. I love this marble-print silk pillowcase though because the pattern makes any stains hard to see.

• Slugging and retinoids or AHAs may not mix. Applying Vaseline may increase the penetration of exfoliating ingredients, so it’s best to slug on nights when your routine is focused on moisturization.

• Only slug a few nights per week. According to some derms, over-slugging can actually disrupt the way your skin barrier naturally functions, so it’s best not to overdo it.