Last updated: March 2026
What Is Slugging?
Slugging is a skincare technique where you seal in your nighttime skincare with a thick layer of an occlusive product like petroleum jelly or a heavy balm.
Slugging involves applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline), Aquaphor, or a similar occlusive product as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine. The occlusive layer traps moisture and active ingredients against the skin, preventing transepidermal water loss overnight. The technique is especially popular for people with dry, dehydrated, or barrier-damaged skin. The name comes from the shiny, slug-like appearance of skin coated in petroleum jelly. While effective for hydration, slugging is not recommended for acne-prone or oily skin types, as the occlusive layer can trap sebum and bacteria.
Tips
- Apply a very thin layer—a pea-sized amount for the whole face is enough.
- Do it over your serums and moisturizer, never over bare skin.
- Use a silk or satin pillowcase to avoid transferring product to your pillow.
See it in action
Tutorials that use or demonstrate this technique: