Slugging: Why You Should Try This Viral Skincare Trend

March 29 2022

We're sure you've seen this viral trend somewhere, be it Instagram, Reddit or especially Tiktok, where it has accumulated over 150 million views. The term "slugging" has been slung around social media recently, and while it might sound icky, this skincare trend has been garnered the attention of millions, and for good reason! The effects of slugging are apparently immediately visible overnight, but what is slugging, really, and how does it work? In this article, your trusted skincare and beauty product expert in Singapore, Novela, will take a closer look at this craze and help you figure out the secrets behind slugging.

What Is Slugging?

The main idea behind slugging is to keep the skin hydrated and the skin barrier protected. The term itself refers to the process of coating the face in an occlusive agent, like petroleum -- leaving you shiny and "slimy" like a slug. Occlusives are ingredients which form a physical layer on your skin, keeping your skin hydrated by preventing trans-epidermal water loss, or the loss of water through the skin to the air. Occlusives "seal" the skin, keeping it hydrated through the night, causing it to look so much more youthful and plump the morning after. Though some attribute this skincare trend to k-beauty routines, its origins are not quite so clear-cut. It's been part of beauty routines of many around the world, and when we look at its benefits, it becomes clear why this step can be found the world over.

What Are The Benefits Of Slugging?

Slugging is most useful for those with very dry skin, or a compromised skin barrier. The skin barrier is the protective topmost layer that prevents the entry of allergens and viruses and keeps moisture in, for well-nourished cells. Slugging helps you repair the skin barrier as it creates an impermeable barrier - reducing the number of allergens getting in and minimising trans-epidermal water loss, allowing your skin to repair its barrier without any external stressors. It can also enhance the effects of other skincare products, as active ingredients in serums can penetrate more deeply into the skin.

Don't completely block off your skin, though - it still needs to breathe, and some water loss is helpful, as it signals to your skin your skin barrier needs renewing, so never leave the occlusives on for too long!

If you have acne-prone skin, it might be best to avoid occlusive agents entirely, as these can sometimes trap dead skin and oil, which will aggravate your skin. Even if you do have drier skin, it's best not to slug daily, especially with Singapore's weather. Always listen to what your skin needs - slugging is a step for when your skin is thirstiest.

How to “slug”

Remember, slugging is an additional step to your existing routine. Always cleanse thoroughly beforehand - we don't want any muck to be trapped under the slugging layer. Tone as per usual, and follow with a hydrating serum and moisturiser. Humectants like hyaluronic acid are helpful, and work best with the slugging to come after. The slugging itself is fairly simple - slather on a thin layer of the occlusive of your choice, and leave it to do its work overnight. This should be your last step, as it is the "seal" which locks everything into the skin.

Discover Products for Slugging at Novela

While Vaseline has been the "viral" product, it is recommended to use products that also contain other beneficial ingredients like ceramides, or lighter occlusives such as shea butter or jojoba oil. Sold on the benefits, but unsure of where to buy skincare products for slugging in Singapore? Check out Kiehl's ultra facial cream or their Oil-free gel cream at our outlets for something light that still helps lock moisture in. Origin's Drink up Intensive Overnight Mask is another ultra-moisturising product that contains emollients and humectants, and seals it in with its occlusive properties. The Bright & Anti-Ageing Day Cream is also perfect for the daytime, as it has SPF and contains ceramides, which help restore and renew the skin barrier.

Wondering where to start with slugging? Visit our online skincare shop, and browse through our carefully curated range of skincare, specially tailored to meet your and your skin's specific needs.

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