What does slugging do for your skin?Updated a year ago
To understand slugging, you need to understand occlusion. Occlusives are moisturizing skincare ingredients that create a seal over the skin.
Do you know how oils repel water? That’s how occlusives work. They don’t let water come in or out of the skin.
Once you apply an occlusive, any moisture in your skin is effectively locked in. That’s why it’s a final skincare step - you layer your occlusive after you’ve already applied some water-rich products.
Important: Don’t attempt to slug your skin when it’s dry and bare. Slugging works because the occlusive goes over water-based skincare products. Your skin has to be saturated with water and hydrating agents first, or there won’t be any moisture to lock in.
Usually, users apply hydrating serums before slugging, but there’s another way to achieve optimal skin hydration. Simply soak your skin in water directly (e.g., by taking a shower). As long as you “slug” within a couple of minutes, that occlusive will seal the water into your skin.