lanolin for face wrinkles

HOW TO SLUG YOUR FACE

The quest for radiant, hydrated skin can lead down many a path, from serums packed with exotic ingredients to elaborate multi-step routines. But sometimes, the most transformative secrets lie in the simplest of steps. Enter “slugging,” a surprisingly straightforward but effective technique that’s sending ripples through the skincare world.

WHAT IS SLUGGING? 

Slugging is a skincare technique that has gained popularity, especially through social media platforms like TikTok. It involves applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to the entire face as the final step in a nighttime skincare routine. This practice is called “slugging” because the shiny and smooth appearance it gives to the skin resembles that of a gastropod, like a snail or slug. The petroleum jelly acts as a thick occlusive, helping to lock in moisture and prevent water loss from the skin. 

The trend has roots in the long history of Vaseline, which has been used for over 140 years in various beauty applications, such as improving diaper rash, healing cuts and burns, and moisturizing the skin. 

In recent times, slugging has experienced a resurgence, particularly in Korean beauty, where it is known as “chok chok,” emphasizing the goal of achieving a deeply moisturized and dewy complexion.

THE POTENTIAL SKIN BENEFITS OF SLUGGING

PREVENTS WATER LOSS

Occlusives play a crucial role in slugging by creating a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. This barrier serves as a shield that locks in moisture and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Transepidermal water loss is when water escapes from the skin into the surrounding environment, leading to dryness and dehydration. The occlusive layer, often formed by thick substances like Vaseline, acts as a seal, keeping the water trapped within the skin.

In more scientific terms, occlusives, such as Vaseline, function by creating a physical barrier that limits the evaporation of water from the skin’s surface. This process is essential for maintaining optimal hydration levels in the skin. By preventing excessive water loss, occlusives contribute to a healthier and more moisturized complexion. The shiny appearance associated with slugging is a visible indication of this occlusive action, showcasing the effective sealing of moisture for a smoother and well-hydrated skin surface.

REPAIRS THE SKIN BARRIER

Petrolatum, like Vaseline, has special properties that can make your skin feel better. It works as an emollient, which means it helps to soothe and soften the skin. When you put petrolatum on your skin, it doesn’t just feel nice; it also helps to increase the moisture in your skin.

Scientists have looked into this, and their research shows that petrolatum can quickly repair damage to the skin’s protective barrier. This barrier is like a shield for your skin, and when it’s damaged, your skin can become more sensitive and lose moisture. Using petrolatum helps to fix this damage right away, making your skin feel smoother and more comfortable. So, when you apply products with petrolatum, like Vaseline, you’re not just making your skin soft, you’re also giving it a hand in repairing itself.

REDUCES SIGNS OF AGING

The moisturizing effects of petrolatum, such as those found in products like Vaseline, go beyond just making your skin feel soft. These effects can contribute to a smoother and brighter appearance. When your skin is well-hydrated, it tends to look more even and vibrant. The hydration provided by petrolatum can also have a positive impact on the signs of aging.

Fine lines and wrinkles can become less noticeable when the skin is adequately moisturized. The plumping effect from increased hydration can temporarily smooth out the skin’s surface, making those lines appear less prominent. In this way, the regular use of petrolatum-based products can aid in reducing the visible signs of aging, leaving the skin looking not only softer but also contributing to a more youthful and radiant complexion. So, besides feeling good, using petrolatum can give your skin a boost in looking smoother, brighter, and less marked by fine lines and wrinkles.

DOES SLUGGING HAVE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?  

Generally, slugging is considered a safe and straightforward skincare practice for many people. However, as with any beauty routine, individual skin types and conditions can vary, and it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects.

For some individuals, using thick occlusive substances like Vaseline for slugging may lead to clogged pores, especially if they are prone to acne or have oily skin. The occlusive nature of these products can create a barrier that traps sweat, oil, and dead skin cells, potentially causing breakouts. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, it’s advisable to perform a patch test on a small area before applying petroleum jelly to the entire face.

Additionally, if you have respiratory issues or allergies, the use of heavily scented or formulated petroleum jelly products might trigger adverse reactions. Opting for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options can help minimize the risk of irritation.

While slugging is generally well-tolerated, it’s crucial to incorporate it into your skincare routine in moderation. Over-reliance on occlusive products may disrupt the natural balance of the skin over time. If you experience any redness, itching, or discomfort after slugging, it’s wise to discontinue the practice and consult with a dermatologist.

As with any skincare trend, individual experiences may vary, and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another. Paying attention to your skin’s response and adjusting your routine accordingly is key to ensuring a positive and effective skincare experience.

HOW TO SLUG YOUR FACE STEP-BY-STEP

HERE’S THE RIGHT WAY TO DO

Regardless of what product you choose, it’s important to start with clean skin. Afterward, apply a thin layer of hydrating moisturizer before sealing it with your chosen occlusive. Some recommend skipping the moisturizer and going straight to the petrolatum-based product, but that may not be ideal, especially if your skin is very dry, as the occlusive may trap in that dryness.

If you’re using any prescription medications on your skin, be careful with occlusives, as they could intensify the medications’ effects. Strong ingredients like AHAs, vitamin C, and retinoids should also be avoided. Locking in these potentially irritating ingredients could make your skin more sensitive and compromise its moisture barrier.

Slugging might not be suitable for all skin types, but for those with dry and irritated skin in need of some tender loving care, it can effectively seal in hydration and aid in the healing process.

A sTEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO SLUGGING

Step 1: Start by cleansing your skin using a gentle hydrating cleanser.

Step 2: After cleansing, when your skin is still a bit damp, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your face and neck.

Step 3: Leave it on overnight while you sleep.

In the morning, the last step is to wash your face with plain water.

If you’re worried about Vaseline getting on your pillow, you can try slugging during the day instead. It’s like wearing a hydrating mask. Keep in mind that makeup might not stick well, so daytime slugging is great for a relaxed day at home when you don’t mind a more laid-back look.

INCORPORATING SLUGGING INTO SKINCARE ROUTINE

You can easily add slugging to your skincare routine, but there are some important things to consider when using a thick occlusive product along with treatment creams.

If you apply treatment cream after slugging, it might prevent active ingredients from getting into your skin. Certain ingredients like retinol and retinoids (tretinoin) may struggle to go through a thick moisturizing layer.

On the other hand, applying treatment cream before slugging could lead to skin irritation. Dermatology experts usually recommend avoiding putting active ingredients under a heavy layer of Vaseline to prevent irritation.

How often you choose to slug is a personal decision. On slug days, it’s a good idea to skip exfoliating creams and instead use a gentle, hydrating cleanser for the best results.

WHAT’S THE BEST PRODUCT TO USE FOR SLUGGING?

LANOLIPS 101 MULTI-PURPOSE OINTMENT

Lanolin works wonders for your skin. This highly moisturizing and naturally derived oil mimics the skin’s natural oils and can retain up to 400% of its weight in moisture. It also forms a breathable barrier on the skin. Lanolip’s all-purpose ointment uses 100% ultra-grade lanolin in its occlusive formula, making it ideal for slugging and delivering all the benefits for your skin.

COSRX SNAIL MUCIN ESSENCE

A genuine slugging experience wouldn’t be complete without real snail mucin, a beloved ingredient in Korean skincare known for its promises of enhanced hydration and better skin texture. Cosrx’s Advanced Snail Power Essence is a widely popular product, containing a concentrated 96% of mucin filtrate. This regenerative serum is designed to be applied before your regular occlusive slugging products, adding an extra boost to your skincare routine.

CERAVE HEALING OINTMENT

Similar to other dermatologist-favored offerings from CeraVe, this smooth ointment, based on petroleum, includes three distinct ceramides. These ceramides are crucial building blocks necessary for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Additionally, the formula incorporates hyaluronic acid, a fundamental ingredient known for its ability to keep the skin moisturized and looking full.

SKINCEUTICALS HYDRA BALM

Apart from using pure petroleum, SkinCeuticals’ version of the protective balm incorporates aloe and bisabolol to provide a soothing effect on the skin. This ointment not only helps in reinforcing the skin’s natural lipid barrier but also brings the added benefits of aloe and bisabolol for extra comfort.

AQUAPHOR ADVANCED THERAPY OINTMENT

Aquaphor’s beloved skin protectant goes beyond mere petroleum in its formulation. It blends lanolin, a deeply moisturizing emollient, with glycerin and provitamin B5. These additional ingredients serve as humectants, attracting moisture into the skin and preventing it from evaporating, enhancing the overall hydrating effect.

FAQ

1. How often should you do slugging?

2-3 times per week.

2. Do I sleep with slugging?

Yes, slugging involves applying an occlusive like petroleum jelly or Vaseline to your face before bedtime and leaving it on overnight to lock in moisture and promote skin hydration.

3. Can I slug over niacinamide?

Yes, you can slug over niacinamide.

4. Who should avoid slugging?

Individuals with acne-prone or oily skin should exercise caution with slugging, as it may lead to clogged pores.

CONCLUSION

Sugging helps to lock in moisture, promote hydration, and contribute to smoother, more radiant skin. While it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with acne-prone or oily skin, incorporating slugging with caution and adapting it to individual preferences can provide a simple yet effective approach to achieving well-hydrated and nourished skin.

The 12 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin 

Are you bothered by dry skin? It can be difficult to deal with dry skin wherever it appears on your body, especially if it affects your face. Do you struggle to locate a moisturizer that will work for your extremely dry skin? We can assist you in locating the one that will serve your interests the best. Forever put an end to your spotty skin!

Best Overall: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

The Vanicream Daily Face Moisturizer is the way to go. It can be used all over your body and is effective not just on dry skin on the face. Due to a formula rich in hyaluronic acid and five ceramides, it imparts plenty of moisture.

Since the moisturizer doesn’t irritate or trigger breakouts, it is especially suitable for people with sensitive skin. Customers have also mentioned that it effectively hydrates skin all day long and serves as a good makeup base. Yet some people have complained that the moisturizer is too heavy and thick for them, and others have said that it might leave a white cast on the skin. 

Best for Acne-Prone: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

This dermatologist-recommended product helps rebuild the skin’s protective barrier. It’s a great choice to use before makeup because it absorbs quickly on the skin.

La Roche Posay Moisturizer’s review is full of comments which appreciated its non-greasy, lightweight composition. Others loved how effectively it worked under makeup. Some claimed it helped to enhance the texture of their sensitive skin and soothe it. However, others still considered it to be too heavy and it led to outbreaks. A few additional people made comments about the expensive pricing for the little goods. 

Best for Sensitive Skin: Glow Recipe Banana Souffle Moisture Face Cream

Due to its high magnesium and potassium content, the Glow Recipe Banana Soufflé Moisture Cream is perfect for skin that is prone to breakouts. Additionally, it contains soothing turmeric to even out uneven skin tone and calming magnesium to restore and preserve barrier health. This product is vegan and cruelty-free. It is also devoid of parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, phthalates, drying alcohols, and synthetic colors.

A significant plus is how light it feels. People adore how deeply moisturized and non-greasy it left their skin feeling. Others praised its relaxing impact on their sensitive skin, while some said it helped to balance out their skin tone and improve the texture of their skin. The product’s natural banana fragrance is highly favored. Nonetheless, some consumers with really dry skin said it wasn’t hydrating enough.

Best Hydrating: Dew Point by Versed Gel Cream 

An ultra-lightweight, non-comedogenic face moisturizer called Dew Point by Versed quickly hydrates and revives the skin without leaving any greasiness or shine. Aloe leaf juice hydrates, green tea extract fights free radicals and inflammation, and sodium hyaluronate draws in and retains moisture. All skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin, can use this gel moisturizer. 

Its jelly-like texture and fast absorption into the skin without leaving any residue were praised by many reviewers. Some reviewers, however, felt it was sticky. A few individuals report side effects such as itchiness and redness after using. 

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Want to moisturize your skin without spending a fortune? There isn’t a better choice than this outstanding value. Hyaluronic acid, which locks in moisture, and three different kinds of ceramides act in concert to prevent dryness on the body and face. 

The cream is praised by users for being soothing, non-greasy, hydrating, and improving skin texture. It also received a lot of praise from people who have eczema. Others who have used this product well concur. Customers who gave the cream a one-star review, yet typically experienced a negative reaction to it, such as a burning sensation or breakouts, while others said the texture was tacky.

Best for Texture: EltaMD AM Therapy Face Moisturizer

The EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer is perfect if you have dry skin and want a moisturizer that will apply smoothly and feel light. It quickly hydrates skin, leaves almost no residue that can be seen with the unaided eye, and has a cooling effect when used. Willow bark increases skin cell turnover without irritating skin while shearing. Non-comedogenic recipes aid in stimulating cells to increase absorption and retention.

One reviewer called it an “awesome” product that is perfect to use every morning under EltaMD sunscreen and is lightweight. According to a different reviewer, this moisturizer is ideal for sensitive skin and offers wonderful hydration without being greasy or heavy. However, some suggest that it might not be effective for everyone. One reviewer with sensitive skin that is prone to redness found it to be significantly too drying and had an odd aroma.

Best for Redness: Embryolisse Lait Crème

Sensitivity and dryness go hand in hand; both problems are frequently caused by a damaged skin barrier. Thankfully, this moisturizer that makeup artists adore does just that with the aid of shea butter. Aloe vera and other calming components are also included, providing quick relief and aid in reducing redness. 

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré claims that it can wash, moisturize, nourish, and protect the skin. Most consumers have complemented its hydrating and priming benefits, especially for dry skin and the winter. Nonetheless, some users report skin breakouts or displeasure with its thick texture.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Paula’s Choice Omega+ Complex Lightweight Face Moisturizer

This moisturizer from Paula’s Choice is an excellent choice for individuals who want to spend a bit extra money. The Omega+ Complex Moisturizer, which is abundant in antioxidants, regenerating ceramides, and superfood omega fatty acids, nourishes delicate skin and soothes any signs of stress and irritability. The skin’s barrier is strengthened, which is the best part because it helps stop further agitation.

The item appears to be a creamy moisturizer that absorbs well and has a pleasing feel that is lightweight. Numerous reviewers say it leaves their skin feeling moisturized and silky. Some reviewers with regular skin, nonetheless did not think it was extremely hydrating or noteworthy.

Best Multitasking: Alleyoop Dream Team 3-in-1 Moisturizer Eye Cream & Mask

Allow us to introduce you to a three-in-one moisturizer that should be on your radar if you want a simple skincare regimen. With its unique recipe, which doubles as both an eye cream and a face mask, you may use fewer items overall in your routine. Our tester favored its cloud-like texture, and three pumps were the ideal quantity.

Customers liked that the product could be used as a daily face moisturizer. Dry skin might benefit from a large application. They particularly loved the bottle pump’s locking function, which makes it portable and prevents spills. The product is suitable for sensitive skin because it has no aroma. Although a few users complained that the lotion gave them minor skin outbreaks, this was not a typical issue.

Best for Rough, Cracked, and Scaly Skin: Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream

With 48 hours of moisture, Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream is a particularly efficient treatment for severely dry skin. Due to its lack of perfumes, dyes, and parabens, it is excellent for sensitive skin and provides long-lasting comfort for excessively dry skin. The lotion is designed to restore extremely dry skin and leave it feeling and looking good.

This product’s cream recipe, which contains ceramides to rebuild the skin barrier and lessen moisture loss, offers rapid relief for extremely dry skin. It is suitable for people with aging skin and illnesses like diabetes, psoriasis, and xerosis. But those who are allergic to lanolin should refrain from using it. Those who like lightweight lotions may not be able to use the thick cream formulation.

Best for Aging Skin: St. Ives Renewing Collagen Elastin Moisturizer

This St. Ives moisturizer claims to soften and restore dry skin since it contains safflower seed oil, elastin, and collagen proteins. Both daytime and nighttime use benefit from its medium consistency. Skin can stretch and snap back into place with the assistance of collagen and elastin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

The formula was recently altered by the firm, and many reviewers dislike the new one. Nevertheless, a resounding majority of reviewers concur that it’s fantastic for dry skin. Some even say that because of the mild formula, it can help skin that is prone to acne. 

Best Natural: Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream

Weleda’s ultra-rich cream is another exceptional find for people with dry skin because it can be applied to the body as well as the face. To soothe your skin and retain moisture, it uses plant-based oils and other botanical ingredients like calendula, chamomile, pansy, and rosemary. This cream is also free of parabens, phthalates, and artificial perfumes.

The fact that this moisturizer is composed entirely of natural substances makes it a popular choice. Because it is adaptable, consumers can streamline their skincare routine. For those with sensitive skin, the fragrance might not be the best choice, as it can irritate or trigger allergic responses. Additionally, some people can find the product’s texture to be overly heavy, leaving their skin with a greasy or sticky feeling.

Depending on a person’s tastes and skin type, several moisturizers may be the best for dry skin. For extremely dry skin, it is typically advised to use products that contain moisturizing components. It’s critical to pick a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and issues and to include it in your regular skincare routine. Your skin can be efficiently repaired and protected with the right moisturizer, giving it a healthy appearance.