What Is Slugging And Why Is The Internet Going Gaga Over This Beauty Trend?

The world of K-Beauty is a wonderful place but when K-Beauty meets the Internet, it's a whole blown social media frenzy. If you've noticed many 'skinfluencers' smothering their faces with copious amounts of Vaseline or any petroleum jelly, then you have actually noticed them practicing slugging. Slugging is a process where you apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly on your face and leave it on overnight to reveal glowing skin the next morning. This viral beauty technique has left the internet frazzled for obvious reasons and has left many divided over this beauty trend.

Also Read: Under-Eye Dark Circles Are Trending On Social Media But It's Not To Conceal Them

How Does This Work?

Winter time leaves our skin thirsty for moisture and many a times some products just don't hit the spot. Petroleum jelly, on the other hand, creates a protective barrier which prevents loss of water from the skin overnight. Another technique of using this process is by adding it to desired areas that require special attention like fine lines under the eyes or dry patches. After following your daily night time skincare routine, apply an even layer of petroleum jelly on your skin and leave it overnight. You probably want to use a pillow cover you don't mind getting product all over!

Slugging is an overnight technique using petroleum jelly before you hit the bed.
Photo Credit: Pexels

Benefits Of Slugging

Unlike most products, petroleum jelly locks in moisture like none other lest we mention how cost effective this ingredient is. Especially for dry skin types, this process not just locks in moisture but also repairs moisture barrier preventing loss of water. Additionally, the fact that petroleum jelly has no additives or fragrance, it can suit sensitive skin types seamlessly.

Also Read: Guide To Alpha Hydroxy Acid: AHA Benefits, Uses And Its Natural Sources

Is It Beneficial For All Skin Types?

The reason there are different skin procedures meant for different skin types explain that not all products suit all skin types. While petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic i.e. it doesn't clog pores, those with oily or acne-prone skin type should steer clear from it. Since it has a thick occlusive consistency, it has the ability to trap dead skin cells and bacteria that ultimately lead to breakouts.

Slugging may be beneficial for those with dry skin types
Photo Credit: Pexels

Should You Try It?

After the green signal from your dermatologist, sure, go for it. Not only is it easy to carry out, petroleum jelly is a bathroom cabinet essential and cost effective. However, one should note that even though petroleum jellies create a protective barrier to lock in moisture, it does not really add moisture to the skin. In such a case, consult your dermatologist who will probably prescribe a glycerine based ointment to apply on your skin to make the dry patches go away.

Are you going to try this viral skincare trend?