The latest viral K-beauty skin care trend making waves online is slugging: the process of coating your face in a layer of petroleum product to seal your skin overnight and lock in moisture. We chatted with board-certified Toronto dermatologist Dr. Julia Carroll to learn more. —Noa Nichol
Hello Dr. Carroll! Please tell us a bit about yourself to start.
I’m an award-winning board-certified dermatologist known for my designer approach to beauty. I travel worldwide, both lecturing and learning, to bring the latest results-oriented treatments to my patients. I am co-founder of Compass Dermatology in downtown Toronto and hold a faculty position within the University of Toronto, Division of Dermatology. Apart from my busy dermatology practice, I am on the board of Melanoma Network Canada. I am a proud Maritimer, avid sailor and mom. My family and I love exploring the world and spending time on the east coast.
In skincare, “slugging” is currently trending—on social media, at least. What does this term refer to, and what are its origins? What does it accomplish, technically, and what are the benefits for skin?
The practice of slugging is when an occlusive moisturizer, often Vaseline, is applied to the face as the last step of your nighttime routine. I’m not entirely sure of the origins but it’s often linked to K-Beauty. Some say it gets its name from the slime-like appearance of the skin which mimics what a slug would leave behind. The main benefit of slugging is that it reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99 per cent. It essentially locks in moisture and active ingredients.
Would you recommend slugging to, well anyone? Who is it for, and who may it not work for?
I think there is no harm in trying slugging. It’s best for those with dry skin but would also work for those with combination skin. If you are acne-prone with dry skin it could be used as a “rescue” treatment but I would not recommend it regularly.
Your top tips/dos and don’ts for slugging at home? A little bit of the occlusive moisturizer goes a long way.
If you are new to slugging, don’t add too many active ingredients under the slugging layer. Start with just one or two actives that you know your skin will tolerate. Change your pillowcase nightly to avoid transferring the occlusive to your hair.
What are some of your favourite products to slug with?
I like traditional Vaseline or Aquaphor. CeraVe Healing Ointment and Baby Healing Ointment are also great, as is SkinFix Eczema+Dermatitis Face Balm.
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