Slugging sounds disgusting. It looks worse. And yet it’s one of the most effective things you can do for dry, dehydrated, or barrier-damaged skin, which is why it’s been a staple of Korean skincare for years before the rest of the internet caught up.
Here’s what it actually is and whether you should be doing it.
What Is Slugging?
Slugging means applying a thin layer of occlusive – usually petroleum jelly or a similar ingredient – as the last step of your evening routine. The occlusive creates a seal over everything underneath, preventing transepidermal water loss overnight and letting your skin repair itself without interference. You wake up looking like you’ve been moisturised from the inside, because effectively you have.
The name comes from the slightly unfortunate resemblance to slug slime. Skincare is not always glamorous.
Does It Actually Work?
Yes, with caveats. Occlusives don’t add moisture – they lock in what’s already there. This means slugging is only effective if you’ve applied your usual hydrating products underneath first. A toner, essence, or serum before the occlusive is what makes it work. The slug layer is the seal, not the treatment.
Who Is It For?
Good for: dry skin, dehydrated skin, compromised or barrier-damaged skin, anyone who wakes up with tight or flaky skin despite moisturising.
Not for: oily or acne-prone skin. Occlusives are comedogenic for some people and can trap debris in pores if your skin is prone to congestion. If that’s you, skip it.
What to Use
Classic petroleum jelly – Vaseline – is the original and still works perfectly. In K-beauty, products like the COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream used as a final layer or dedicated sleeping masks serve the same purpose with added actives. Some people use a dedicated occlusive balm; others keep it simple with Vaseline.
The amount matters: a thin layer is enough. You don’t need to look like you’ve been laminated.
How to Do It
Apply your full evening routine as normal – cleanse, essence, serum, moisturiser. Then, as the very last step, apply a small amount of your occlusive of choice and press it gently into skin. Go to sleep. Wake up to noticeably softer, more hydrated skin.
Do it two or three times a week rather than every night, especially when you’re starting out.