Slugging Skincare Method Guide to Lock in Moisture Overnight

Editor: Suman Pathak on Oct 09,2025

 

If you’ve been watching beauty videos recently, the slugging skincare method guide must be among the viral routines you came across. It claims to give you deeply hydrated and luminous skin until the next morning. Though the name might seem weird, no one can deny the great effects of slugging. Essentially, it includes spreading a very thin layer of petroleum jelly or any other occlusive product on your face at night to keep the moisture locked in. This method is a ‘while you sleep’ one, so that you can have the soft, plump, and glowing skin back in the morning.

This easy routine went viral due to a Tok-tok beauty trend, where the users who had tried it shared their results of glowing skin. Nevertheless, slugging is not a new concept — it is based on Korean skincare and backed by dermatologists who understand its advantages for skin barrier protection. No matter if your skin is dry, flaky or dull, this technique may turn out to be the 'game-changer' for your skin.

What Is the Slugging Skincare Method?

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The gist of the slugging skincare method guide lies in the retention of skin moisture. The name "slugging" is derived from the shiny, slug-like appearance that is noticed right after an occlusive product is applied to the face. Usually, a mixture of Vaseline or petroleum jelly is the product that creates a sort of protective seal on your face preventing the loss of water thus allowing skin to repair during the night.

Massive popularity for slugging came from the online beauty communities, as it was a part of the Vaseline skincare trend. Despite being a budget-friendly choice and very simple to perform, it gives results as good as those of intense hydrating treatments in salons. The method is now widely used as a regular nighttime ritual by people who want to have healthy and moisturized skin without spending a lot on products.

How does the Slugging Method work?

Slugging employs the moisture sealing method, whereby a barrier that is occlusive to the skin is applied. This barrier allows the skin to keep on retaining the moisture and also prevents trans-epidermal water loss. It supports the skin’s natural repair process. In fact, it works best if you follow it up after your normal skincare routine.

  • Step 1: Thoroughly wash your face, removing all the dirt, oil, and makeup.
  • Step 2: Use serums and/or moisturizers that are suitable for your skin and that have a hydrating effect.
  • Step 3: Add a little petroleum jelly or a similar occlusive product on top of everything to act as a seal.

The next morning, your face will be much smoother, hydrated, and will have a ‘new life’ feeling. The effect of the overnight occlusive treatment just does not stop at the glow of your skin, it also contributes to healthy skin all the way through.

The Vaseline Skincare Trend

Slugging was a big beneficiary of the Vaseline skincare trend as it went viral. Vaseline, being a strong occlusive product, became the favorite product among the beauty enthusiasts who were looking for inexpensive solutions. One after another the social media accounts started showing the pictures of the transformations and the way Vaseline was visibly reducing the problems of dryness, redness, and flakiness during the night.

Dermatologists confirmed what the skincare enthusiasts had already observed — the simple routine has a very good skin barrier effect.

Benefits of the Slugging Skincare Method

The slugging skincare method guide was praised for the numerous skin benefits it provides. It is not just about looking radiant, but about repairing and maintaining a good complexion.

Some of the biggest benefits are:

  • Hydration Boost: Moisturizes the skin and prevents it from drying out during the night.
  • Barrier Strengthening: Gives power to the skin’s natural repair cycle.
  • Smoother Texture: Helps get rid of dry patches and roughness.
  • Increased Product Efficacy: Works as a charm for serums and moisturizers by allowing them to get absorbed more deeply.
  • Environmental Defense: Protects your skin from exposure to unclean air.

This moisture sealing technique helps you achieve long-term hydration without layering multiple products. For many, it’s the missing step that completes their nighttime skincare routine.

Who Can Benefit Most From the Slugging Skincare Method?

The slugging skincare method guide is a fantastic method to try for dry, sensitive, or mature skin. If your skin is very rarely prone to tightness or dullness, then slugging is the best way of reviving it and making it soft and comfortable once again. It is also very helpful during winter, or in a dry region, when your skin is in a desperate need of protection.

If that is the case, and your skin is oily and acne-prone, you may prefer to apply the product only to dry areas or use it sparingly. Beginning with a small amount will help you to monitor how your skin reacts before committing to daily use.

For beginners, dermatologists advise using slugging up to two or three times a week, particularly in winter and after the use of exfoliating products.

Common Myths About Slugging

As the TikTok beauty trend got a lot of attention, wild myths about slugging came up. Here are some common ones with an explanation of the facts:

Myth 1: “Slugging clogs pores.”

No, petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic, which means it shouldn't clog pores if one is doing a proper face cleaning and then applying it.

Myth 2: “It is too greasy for your face.”

If you put it on the face in a thin layer, it goes well with your skin and leaves a protective layer rather than an oily mess.

Myth 3: “It is only for dry skin.”

Yes, dry skin will benefit the most from this technique, but normal skin can also slug once in a while for additional moisture.

Dermatologists and skincare professionals have been advocating this simple overnight occlusive treatment for years. It's about doing it right and not going overboard.

How to Incorporate Slugging into Your Routine?

There is no need for any specially designed products or extra steps to add slugging to your evening routine. You can follow these tips for the best results:

  • Always start with clean, moisturized skin.
  • Put on your customary skincare products before you do the slugging.
  • Take some petroleum jelly in a small scoop and spread it in gentle strokes on your face.
  • Sleep with it and wash your face gently in the morning.

Sealing moisture in your face’s skin can take your moisturizing products to a higher level as it prevents water from getting out. If you prefer light formulations, you might use petrolatum or ceramide-containing balms or creams rather than plain Vaseline.

Variations of the Slugging Trend

Of course, the use of petroleum jelly in the Vaseline skincare trend is the pivotal point, but there are some people who come up with different choices of occlusive like natural alternatives such as shea butter, beeswax, and squalane-based balms which are great for people who want their skincare to be plant-based.

Final Thoughts

The slugging skincare method guide is not just another internet viral hack that comes and goes—it is a proven skincare routine that focuses mainly on hydration, repair, and protection. Basically, slugging turns out to be a no-fuss method that works when the user is sleeping if the person is facing dryness, dullness, or hypersensitivity at the same time.

Doing this moisture sealing technique is basically your skin's invitation to restore and glow to its natural state.


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