Slugging Demystified
There are few skincare practices with a stranger name than slugging.
Originally popularized through Korean skincare routines, slugging involves applying a final occlusive layer over your evening skincare to help prevent moisture loss overnight. The result is skin that feels softer, calmer, and more hydrated by morning.
Despite the trend-worthy name, the concept itself is hardly new. For decades, dermatologists have recommended occlusive ingredients to support the skin barrier during periods of dryness, irritation, over-exfoliation, or environmental stress. Slugging simply gives the practice a modern name.
What Is Slugging?
Think of slugging as the final step in a nighttime skincare routine.
After cleansing and applying any hydrating serums or moisturizers, an occlusive product is pressed onto the skin to help seal everything in. Rather than adding hydration itself, the occlusive layer helps reduce transepidermal water loss, allowing the skin to retain more of the moisture already present.
It's often paired with another skincare technique called skin flooding, which involves applying layers of hydrating products onto slightly damp skin before sealing them in. Together, the two approaches can be especially helpful for skin that feels dehydrated, tight, or compromised.
Why It Works
Healthy skin naturally contains a protective barrier that regulates moisture and helps defend against environmental stressors. When that barrier becomes weakened, water escapes more easily and irritation can follow.
An occlusive layer acts like a temporary shield. By slowing moisture loss overnight, the skin has an opportunity to recover and maintain hydration levels more effectively.
Many people notice benefits such as:
- Reduced dryness and flaking
- Softer, smoother skin texture
- Less tightness or irritation
- A more resilient skin barrier
- Increased glow and suppleness
Who Benefits Most?
Slugging tends to work best for those with dry, dehydrated, mature, or barrier-compromised skin.
It can be particularly helpful after travel, seasonal weather changes, excessive sun exposure, retinoid use, or periods of over-exfoliation.
Those with very oily or acne-prone skin may want to approach slugging more cautiously, as heavier occlusive products can sometimes feel too rich. As always, skincare is highly individual, and the best approach is the one that works for your skin. Our estheticians are beautiful listeners and skilled at diagnosing only what you need, nothing more —> book a facial.
A Botanical Approach to Slugging
Traditionally, slugging has relied on petroleum-based products to create an occlusive seal. While effective, many people prefer plant-based alternatives that offer both protection and additional skin-supportive benefits. We suggest Olea Castor Blend Solid Serum or Monastery Attar Floral Repair Concentrate.
Slugging doesn’t need to be a nightly practice. Many people reach for it once or twice a week, or whenever skin feels particularly dry, depleted, or in need of extra support. Those with very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer to apply only to areas that need extra support.
How to Slug
- Cleanse your skin as usual.
- Apply any hydrating serums or moisturizers.
- As the final step in your evening routine, warm a small amount of an occlusive balm or solid serum between your fingertips.
- Gently press it onto the skin, focusing on areas prone to dryness or irritation.
- Leave on overnight and cleanse as usual in the morning.
Happy, healthy, hydrated skin!