Face Slugging: How It Saved My Skin
If you’ve ever gone to bed looking like a glazed donut and woken up with baby-soft skin, congratulations: you’ve discovered face slugging.
Yes, it sounds a little weird. The first time I heard about it, I imagined slathering something slimy and gooey all over my face like an actual slug. But don’t worry. Slugging skin doesn’t involve any real slugs. It’s all about sealing in moisture with an occlusive layer (like Vaseline or Aquaphor) so your skin can heal overnight.
I’ve been testing slugging with Vaseline, Aquaphor slugging, and even using Weleda Skin Food for months. And let me tell you, my dry, dull skin has never been happier.
Let’s break it down.
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What Is Face Slugging
Face slugging is a skincare method that involves applying a thick, occlusive product, usually petrolatum (like Vaseline) or balm, on top of your skincare routine at night. The idea is to lock in hydration and prevent moisture loss while you sleep.
Think of it as wrapping your skin in a cozy blanket.
Your serums and creams work hard to hydrate and repair, but they can evaporate or get rubbed off on your pillow. When you slug, you trap that goodness underneath and give your skin time to rebuild its barrier.
How Face Slugging Works
Here’s the simple science:
The skin barrier (the outermost layer) keeps hydration in and irritants out. When it’s compromised, you get dryness, redness, flaking, and irritation. Occlusives like Vaseline or Aquaphor form a breathable film that keeps water from evaporating.
That sealed environment helps your skin repair itself faster.
When I started slugging, I noticed that even after nights of using active ingredients like retinol or acids, my skin didn’t peel or burn as much. It felt soothed and bouncy the next morning.
My First Time Slugging
Okay, full honesty. The first night I tried it, I looked like I had dipped my face in oil.
I applied too much, like a full layer of frosting on a cake. I went to bed and instantly regretted it because my pillowcase turned into a crime scene of grease.
But by morning? My skin was glowing. Not oily, not sticky. Just soft.
Now I know better. You don’t need to use a ton. A pea-sized amount is enough for your entire face.
Face Slugging Routine Step-by-Step
Here’s how I do it:
| Step | Product Type | Example | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleanser | Gentle, non-stripping (like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser) | Remove makeup, dirt, and oils |
| 2 | Toner or Mist | Hydrating toner or thermal water | Add moisture base |
| 3 | Serum | Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or peptides | Treat and plump |
| 4 | Moisturizer | Cream or lotion | Seal hydration before the occlusive |
| 5 | Occlusive Layer | Vaseline, Aquaphor, Weleda Skin Food, or CeraVe Ointment | Lock in everything |
Important tip: Always apply your slugging product on damp skin or after a light moisturizer. Never slug over dry skin, or you’ll just trap dryness in.
Slugging Skin Before and After
I wish I had taken proper before-and-after photos because the difference was wild.
Before: My skin looked tired, rough, and dull, especially around my nose and cheeks. Makeup clung to dry patches.
After a week of nightly slugging, everything changed. My foundation glided on. My skin tone evened out. Those tiny flaky patches? Gone.
Now, I only slug two to three times per week to maintain that glow without clogging my pores.
Slugging with Vaseline vs. Aquaphor vs. Weleda Skin Food
Here’s the truth: not all occlusives are the same. I’ve tried several, and each one feels different on the skin.
| Product | Texture | Key Ingredients | Best For | My Thoughts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vaseline Original | Thick and greasy | 100% petrolatum | Severe dryness | Cheap, classic, but a little too shiny for me |
| Eucerin Aquaphor | Slightly lighter | Petrolatum + panthenol + glycerin | Sensitive skin | My go-to. Heals overnight without clogging |
| CeraVe Healing Ointment | Silky balm texture | Ceramides + petrolatum + hyaluronic acid | Barrier repair | Great if you want skincare + slugging benefits |
| Weleda Skin Food | Creamy and herbal | Lanolin, sunflower oil, beeswax, chamomile | Dry, flaky areas | Smells divine and gives a healthy sheen |
When I need a heavy-duty overnight treatment, I grab Aquaphor.
If I want something more nourishing with a natural feel, Weleda Skin Food wins every time.
For active nights (like after exfoliation), I go with CeraVe Ointment for its ceramides.
Who Should Try Skin Slugging
Skin slugging is a dream for people with:
- Dry or dehydrated skin
- Flaky texture
- Compromised skin barrier
- Over-exfoliated or sensitized skin
It might not be ideal if you have acne-prone or oily skin. Occlusives can trap oil and bacteria if you don’t cleanse properly.
But if you slug sparingly, even oily skin types can benefit — especially during winter or after using strong actives.
Tips for Perfect Slugging Skin
- Less is more. A thin layer is all you need.
- Do it at night. Otherwise, your face will reflect light like a disco ball.
- Use a satin pillowcase. It’s easier to wash and won’t absorb too much product.
- Skip it if you’re breaking out. Focus on barrier repair first.
- Slug selectively. Try “spot slugging” on dry areas like under the eyes or around the nose.
Face Slugging Mistakes I’ve Made
- I slugged after using a strong retinol and my face burned.
- I used too much product and stained my pillow.
- I didn’t cleanse properly and woke up with clogged pores.
So learn from me. Always cleanse thoroughly, moisturize first, and use just enough to coat the skin lightly.
Why Face Slugging Actually Works
It’s not magic. It’s basic barrier repair.
When your skin barrier is healthy, your complexion glows naturally. You don’t need to pile on makeup because your base (your skin) already looks smooth.
That’s why slugging before and after results are so noticeable. You’re giving your skin time to function properly again.
And for anyone wondering, no, petrolatum does not suffocate your skin. It’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores if used correctly.
CeraVe vs. Aquaphor vs. Vaseline: Which Is Best for Slugging Skin
Let’s compare the three most popular options:
| Feature | CeraVe Healing Ointment | Aquaphor | Vaseline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texture | Light and silky | Slightly greasy | Thick and heavy |
| Ingredients | Ceramides, petrolatum, hyaluronic acid | Petrolatum, panthenol | 100% petrolatum |
| Feel | Hydrating, smooth | Healing, slightly sticky | Oily film |
| Best For | Daily slugging | Intense repair | Occasional deep moisture |
| Price Range | Mid-range | Mid-range | Budget-friendly |
If you’re new to slugging, start with Aquaphor.
If you’re a skincare minimalist, go with Vaseline.
If you want skincare plus slugging, try CeraVe.
Slugging Skin for Different Seasons
Winter: Go full slug mode. Your skin barrier needs the protection.
Summer: Use lighter layers or skip slugging entirely if it feels too heavy.
Travel: Slug before long flights. Airplane cabins are basically giant dehydrators.
My Experience with Weleda Skin Food as a Slugging Cream
Weleda Skin Food is a cult classic for a reason. It’s rich, botanical, and smells like a spa treatment.
The texture is thicker than Aquaphor, but it melts beautifully into the skin. I love using it when I want my skin to look dewy and alive.
It also works as a makeup primer or a hand cream. I sometimes even mix it with foundation for a natural glow.
Skin Slugging Before and After Sleep
Here’s how my night usually goes:
- I finish my skincare routine.
- I apply a thin layer of CeraVe Ointment or Aquaphor.
- My skin looks glassy.
- I go to bed thinking, “Is this too much?”
- I wake up the next morning, rinse my face, and smile.
My skin feels like silk. No tightness, no dry patches, just comfort.
That’s the beauty of slugging, it’s simple and effective.
Face Slugging vs. Hair Slugging
Wait, there’s hair slugging too? Yep.
The idea is the same, you coat your hair (usually the ends) with an oil or treatment and leave it overnight to lock in moisture.
So if your skin and hair are both dry, you can slug your face and your hair at the same time. I call it my “self-care oil spill.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is slugging your face?
It’s applying a thick layer of occlusive (like Vaseline or Aquaphor) on top of your skincare to lock in moisture overnight.
2. Is Vaseline good for face slugging?
Yes. Vaseline is 100% petrolatum and safe for the skin barrier.
3. Can slugging cause acne?
It can if you use too much or apply it over dirty skin. Start slowly and patch test.
4. How often should I slug my face?
Two to three times a week is plenty for most skin types.
5. Can I slug with Weleda Skin Food?
Yes! It’s a natural, rich cream that gives a similar barrier effect with herbal ingredients.
6. Should I apply slugging on wet skin?
Slightly damp skin is ideal, it helps trap hydration effectively.
7. Can I slug during the day?
Technically yes, but it’s better at night since it’s shiny and heavy.
Pros and Cons of Face Slugging
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deeply hydrates and repairs | Can feel greasy |
| Strengthens skin barrier | Might clog pores if overused |
| Reduces flakiness and irritation | Not ideal under makeup |
| Helps actives work better | Pillowcase may get messy |
| Instant glow and softness | Requires patience to find right balance |
Face Slugging Results: My Verdict
After months of experimenting, I can confidently say slugging skin is one of the easiest ways to rescue dry, irritated, or over-exfoliated skin.
It doesn’t need fancy products or expensive treatments. It just needs consistency and the right routine.
The best part? You probably already have what you need in your bathroom.
Final Thoughts
Face slugging might sound strange, but once you try it, you’ll understand the hype.
It’s comforting, simple, and actually works.
Whether you use Aquaphor, Vaseline, CeraVe, or Weleda Skin Food, your skin will thank you.
Just remember: a little goes a long way.
This post showed you how to do face slugging, the best products for slugging skin, and what to expect.
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