Slugging Skincare: The Viral TikTok Trend That Actually Works (Complete Guide)

Slugging Skincare: Everything You Need to Know About This Viral Trend

If you've been scrolling through #SkinTok lately, you've probably seen people coating their faces in petroleum jelly before bed. No, they're not crazy—they're slugging.

This K-beauty technique has taken the internet by storm, with millions of people swearing by its ability to transform dry, dull skin into a dewy, hydrated glow overnight.

But what exactly is slugging? Does it work? And most importantly—will it break you out?

In this complete guide, you'll discover:

• What slugging is and how it works
• The science behind occlusive moisturizing
• Step-by-step slugging routine
• Best products for slugging (beyond Vaseline)
• How to slug if you have oily or acne-prone skin
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Let's dive in! 💧

What Is Slugging?

Slugging is the practice of applying a thick layer of occlusive moisturizer (usually petroleum jelly) as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine.

The name comes from the glossy, slug-like appearance your skin has after application. While it might look odd, the results speak for themselves.

Where Did Slugging Come From?

Slugging originated in Korea as part of the K-beauty "chok-chok" (dewy, bouncy) skin philosophy. Korean grandmothers have been doing this for decades—it's only recently gone viral in the West thanks to TikTok.

💡 Related: Want to achieve the ultimate Korean glow? Check out our complete Glass Skin Routine guide.

How Does Slugging Work? (The Science)

Slugging works through a process called occlusion. Here's what happens:

1. Creates a Physical Barrier – The occlusive layer prevents water from evaporating from your skin (called TEWL - transepidermal water loss)
2. Traps Moisture In – Your skincare products underneath can't escape, so they work harder and longer
3. Protects the Skin Barrier – Shields your skin from environmental irritants while you sleep
4. Enhances Penetration – Active ingredients in your serums absorb more deeply

The Result: You wake up with plump, hydrated, glowing skin.

Benefits of Slugging

1. Intense Overnight Hydration

Slugging can reduce water loss by up to 98%, making it one of the most effective hydration techniques.

2. Repairs Damaged Skin Barrier

Perfect for skin compromised by retinol, acids, or harsh weather. Gives your barrier time to rebuild.

🔬 Learn more: Understand how to repair your skin barrier in our Winter Skincare Routine guide.

3. Enhances Product Effectiveness

Your serums and treatments work better when sealed in overnight.

4. Soothes Irritated Skin

Great for eczema, redness, or post-procedure recovery (always check with your dermatologist).

5. Fades Fine Lines

Extreme hydration plumps skin, temporarily reducing the appearance of fine lines.

6. Budget-Friendly

A $5 tub of Vaseline can last months—one of the cheapest "treatments" you can do.

The Complete Slugging Routine (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Start with Clean Skin

Double cleanse to remove all makeup, sunscreen, and oil. Slugging should only be done on completely clean skin.

📖 New to double cleansing? Read our complete Double Cleansing guide.

Product Recommendations:

• DHC Deep Cleansing Oil ($28)
• CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser ($16)

Step 2: Apply Your Serums & Treatments

Layer your active ingredients and hydrating serums. The occlusive will seal these in, so choose wisely!

Great for Slugging Nights:

• The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ($8)
• CeraVe Skin Renewing Niacinamide Serum ($15)

💊 Using niacinamide? Learn everything about this powerhouse ingredient in our Niacinamide 101 guide.

Skip on Slugging Nights:

• Strong retinoids (can increase irritation)
• High-percentage acids
• Actives you're just introducing

🔄 Pro tip: Alternate slugging with actives using Skin Cycling for best results!

Step 3: Apply Your Regular Moisturizer

Don't skip this! Apply your normal moisturizer first. Slugging enhances moisture retention but doesn't provide moisture itself.

Best Moisturizers for Slugging:

• CeraVe Moisturizing Cream ($16)
• Vanicream Moisturizing Cream ($13)

Step 4: Apply Your Occlusive (The "Slug" Part)

This is where the magic happens. Apply a thin-to-medium layer of your chosen occlusive over your entire face.

How much to use: Pea-to-dime sized amount. You want a shiny layer, not a thick mask.

Step 5: Sleep on a Clean Pillowcase

Some product will transfer. Use an old pillowcase or place a clean towel over your pillow.

Best Products for Slugging

Classic Slugging Products

1. Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly ($4-7)
The OG. 100% petroleum jelly, no frills. Best for: Everyone, especially sensitive skin.

2. Aquaphor Healing Ointment ($8-15)
Contains lanolin and glycerin in addition to petrolatum. Best for: Very dry, damaged skin.

3. CeraVe Healing Ointment ($10-18)
Petrolatum + ceramides + hyaluronic acid. Best for: Barrier repair.

K-Beauty Slugging Alternatives

4. COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All in One Cream ($18-25)
Lighter occlusive, snail mucin base. Best for: Oily/combo skin who want mild slugging.

5. Laneige Water Sleeping Mask ($25-34)
Gel-cream occlusive, hydrating + occlusive properties. Best for: Those who find Vaseline too heavy.

Non-Petrolatum Options

6. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 ($15-18)
Shea butter-based, added zinc and panthenol. Best for: Sensitive, irritated skin.

7. Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré ($16-32)
French pharmacy classic, rich emollient. Best for: Dry, mature skin.

Can You Slug with Oily or Acne-Prone Skin?

Short answer: Maybe! Petroleum jelly itself is non-comedogenic (won't clog pores). However, sealing in the wrong products CAN cause breakouts.

How to Slug Safely with Oily Skin

1. Do It Less Frequently – Start with once per week, not nightly
2. Spot Slug – Apply only to dry areas (cheeks, around eyes), skip T-zone
3. Use Lighter Occlusives – Try sleeping packs instead of petroleum jelly
4. Clean Thoroughly – Double cleanse the next morning
5. Choose Products Carefully – No heavy oils or comedogenic ingredients underneath

When NOT to Slug if You Have Acne

• During active breakouts (can trap bacteria)
• With benzoyl peroxide (shouldn't be occluded)
• If you're congestion-prone (try lighter alternatives)

Common Slugging Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Mistake #1: Slugging on Dirty Skin

❌ Wrong: Slugging over makeup, sunscreen, or dirt
✅ Right: Always double cleanse first

Mistake #2: Using Too Much Product

❌ Wrong: Thick, goopy layer that never absorbs
✅ Right: Thin, shiny layer—a little goes a long way

Mistake #3: Slugging Every Single Night

❌ Wrong: Daily slugging when skin doesn't need it
✅ Right: 1-3 times per week, or as needed

Mistake #4: Slugging with Active Breakouts

❌ Wrong: Sealing in bacteria and oil
✅ Right: Wait until skin is clear, or spot-treat only

Mistake #5: Not Adjusting for Your Skin Type

❌ Wrong: One-size-fits-all approach
✅ Right: Customize frequency and product based on your skin

Slugging FAQs

Will slugging clog my pores?

Pure petroleum jelly is non-comedogenic and won't clog pores. However, if you slug over dirty skin or comedogenic products, you could break out. Always cleanse thoroughly first.

How often should I slug?

It depends on your skin type. Dry skin: 2-4 times/week. Normal/combo: 1-2 times/week. Oily skin: Once weekly or only on dry patches. Listen to your skin!

Can I slug in the morning?

Not recommended! Petroleum jelly can interfere with sunscreen absorption and makeup application. Slugging is a nighttime-only treatment.

Will slugging help with wrinkles?

Slugging provides intense hydration that temporarily plumps skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines. It won't permanently erase wrinkles, but it's great for prevention and maintenance.

Can I use coconut oil for slugging?

Technically yes, but coconut oil is comedogenic (pore-clogging) and may cause breakouts. Stick with petroleum jelly or mineral oil-based products for best results.

What if I wake up and my skin is still greasy?

You used too much! Next time use less. In the morning, cleanse with a gentle cleanser, or use micellar water to remove excess.

Can I slug after using retinol?

Be cautious! Slugging can increase retinol penetration and irritation. If using prescription strength, skip slugging. With OTC retinol, wait 20-30 minutes after application before slugging.

Your Slugging Cheat Sheet

✅ Frequency: 1-4x per week depending on skin type
✅ Best for: Dry, dehydrated, winter skin, barrier damage
✅ Product: Petroleum jelly (Vaseline/Aquaphor)
✅ Amount: Pea-to-dime sized
✅ When: Last step PM routine, clean skin only
✅ Avoid: Active breakouts, dirty skin, with strong actives
✅ Results: Immediate hydration, plump skin by morning
✅ Cost: $4-30 (extremely budget-friendly)

Final Thoughts: Should You Try Slugging?

Slugging is perfect if you:

• Have dry, dehydrated, or mature skin
• Live in cold, dry climates
• Have a damaged skin barrier from actives
• Want to maximize your skincare products
• Need an affordable, effective treatment

Proceed with caution if you:

• Have very oily skin
• Are acne-prone
• Have active breakouts or cysts
• Use strong prescription actives

The Bottom Line: Slugging isn't just a viral trend—it's a legitimate skincare technique backed by science. When done correctly, it can transform dry, dull skin overnight.

Start slow, listen to your skin, and adjust as needed. Your morning glow will be worth the slug-like appearance!

💙 Ready to slug? Shop products above or try our AI Skin Analysis to find the perfect routine for your skin type!