Slugging at Night: The Overnight Skincare Trick Dermatologists Swear By

If your skin feels dry, tight, or irritated no matter how many products you use, the problem might not be what you apply—but what you’re losing while you sleep.

That’s where slugging at night comes in.

Slugging is a simple technique where you apply a thin layer of petrolatum (like Vaseline) as the final step of your night routine. It doesn’t add moisture—it locks it in, allowing your skin to repair itself while you sleep.

And yes, it looks shiny. But the results speak for themselves.

What Is Slugging (In Simple Words)?

Slugging means sealing your skincare with an occlusive product—usually petrolatum.

Petrolatum:

• Forms a protective barrier on the skin
• Prevents water loss by up to 30–40%
• Supports the skin’s natural repair process overnight

Think of it like putting a lid on a container—you’re preventing all the good hydration from escaping.

Why Slugging Works Best at Night

At night, your skin:

• Loses more moisture (transepidermal water loss increases)
• Repairs its barrier
• Absorbs skincare more effectively

Slugging enhances all of this by:

• Locking in serums and moisturizers
• Protecting skin from dry air and AC
• Reducing morning dryness and flakiness

Many people notice softer, calmer skin after just one night.

How to Slug Correctly (Step-by-Step)

This part matters. Done wrong, slugging can cause breakouts.

Step 1: Cleanse Gently

Use a mild cleanser—no harsh foaming.

Step 2: Apply Hydrating Products

• Toner (optional)
• Serum (hyaluronic acid works well)
• Moisturizer

Your skin should be well-hydrated before slugging.

Step 3: Seal with Petrolatum

• Take a pea-sized amount
• Warm it between fingers
• Press a thin layer onto the skin

That’s it. More product does NOT mean better results.

Who Should Try Slugging?

Slugging works best for:

• Dry or dehydrated skin
• Sensitive or irritated skin
• People using retinoids or exfoliants
• Winter or air-conditioned environments

If your skin barrier is damaged, slugging can be a game changer.

Who Should Be Careful?

Slugging is not for everyone.

Avoid or limit slugging if:

• You have very acne-prone skin
• You’re prone to fungal acne
• You live in very hot, humid conditions

If unsure, try it 1–2 nights per week, not daily.

Common Slugging Mistakes (Most People Do This)

Avoid these:

• Slugging on dirty skin
• Applying petrolatum directly on dry skin
• Using thick layers
• Slugging after active breakouts

Remember: petrolatum seals everything—good or bad.

How Often Should You Slug?

For beginners:

• 1–2 times per week

For dry skin:

• 2–3 times per week

Daily slugging is usually unnecessary unless advised by a dermatologist.

Does Vaseline Really Help Skin Repair?

Yes.

Petrolatum is:

• Non-comedogenic
• Dermatologist-approved
• Safe for long-term use

It doesn’t clog pores by itself—it simply protects the skin barrier so healing can happen naturally.

Final Thoughts

Slugging isn’t a trend—it’s a barrier-repair technique that’s been used for decades.

If your skin feels tired, dry, or over-treated, this one simple step can:

• Restore softness
• Reduce irritation
• Improve overall skin health

Sometimes, the most effective skincare isn’t the newest product—it’s the simplest one.