Slugging - A Skincare Trend & Why You Should Try It

Updated February 16, 2026

Have you heard of the latest skincare trend called slugging? A quick search on Instagram or TikTok will result in hundreds of videos hyping the quick-at-home treatment for dry, sensitive and irritated skin.

What is Slugging?

Slugging is simply the process of applying a thick layer of an occlusive ointment like petroleum jelly as the last step in your nightly skincare routine, leaving it on overnight. When applied over your hydrating serums or moisturizers, it helps prevent water loss, repairs the skin's barrier, heals dry, cracked, sensitive skin and leaves your skin more supple, plump and glowing. Slugging is especially beneficial for our long, cold and dry winter months.

When to Slug

You can do it nightly to heal dehydrated, dry, cracked or inflamed skin. To maintain results, I recommend slugging 2-3 times per week.

When Not to Slug

I don’t recommend slugging for oily or acne-prone skin. Although petroleum jelly products are non-comedogenic, they can trap bacteria and dead skin cells worsening acne.

Never slug when using active ingredients such at retinoids, salicylic, glycolic or lactic acids. (Save those for nights when you aren't slugging). Only use hydrating oils, squalane serums or moisturizers before slugging.

Slugging Caution

Yes, you can over-slug. Applying heavy occlusives too often can potentially slow your skin’s natural hydration process and lead to congestion — especially if you’re acne-prone.

I recommend slugging primarily for severely dry, cracked, flaky, or sensitized skin, especially during harsh winter months or after procedures when the skin barrier needs extra support.

If you have normal to dry skin, layering hydrating serums and barrier-supporting moisturizers can deliver beautiful results — without the need for a thick ointment layer. Instead of a heavy mask, I recommend Is Clinical's Reparative Moisture Emulsion – A rich yet elegant moisturizer that supports the skin barrier and locks in hydration beautifully. 

Products to Use for Slugging

For a slugging-style routine using iS Clinical, I recommend layering hydration first, then sealing it in:

1. Hydra-Cool Serum
2. Reparative Moisture Emulsion
3. Finish with SHEALD Recovery Balm as your occlusive step for very dry or post-procedure skin 

All products can be purchased online or at the Truyu Demers location.

How to Slug Your Face

1. Double cleanse your skin. It’s important not to have any makeup, dirt or oil on the skin which will become trapped by the occlusive barrier and cause breakouts.
2. Apply a hydrating toner.
3. Apply 2-3 layers of moisturizer. Allow a few minutes for it to penetrate the skin.
4. Apply a moderate layer of a petroleum-based product and leave on overnight.
5. Wake up to more hydrated, healthy glowing skin!

If you're interested in learning more about the products and services offered at Truyu, contact us today or visit our website for more information.