Slugging for Face: Slugging can cause severe breakouts on the face, know these 3 important rules before applying Vaseline.

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Applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly on the face before sleeping at night i.e. ‘slugging’ is trending on social media. It is claimed that it locks the moisture in dry skin and makes the face soft and glowing overnight. However, skin experts believe that even small carelessness while slugging can leave the face filled with pimples and irritation.

Slugging for Face-Slugging can cause severe breakouts on the face, know these 3 important rules before applying Vaseline.

These 3 mistakes can spoil your facial complexion

According to dermatologists, petroleum jelly works as an ‘occlusive’. It forms a protective layer on the skin. If it is not used properly, it causes huge harm to the skin instead of benefit:

  • Slugging a dirty face: Petroleum jelly completely seals the pores of the skin. If dust, makeup or bacteria are already present on the face, they will get trapped inside the skin. Due to this, pimples are sure to appear on the face.
  • Used with active ingredients: Slugging immediately after applying strong chemical serums like Retinol, AHA/BHA or Vitamin C can prove dangerous. The occlusive layer locks these chemicals deep into the skin, which can cause irritation, redness, and skin barrier damage.
  • Use on oily and acne-prone skin: Slugging is not suitable for every skin type. Applying petroleum jelly on oily or acne-prone skin prevents the natural sebum from flowing out, which increases breakouts.

expert opinion

“Slugging is only beneficial for people with extremely dry skin or a damaged skin barrier. People with oily or sensitive skin may end up blocking their pores if they apply a thick layer of Vaseline all over the face. It is essential to wash the face with a mild cleanser before slugging.”
— Skincare Expert Guidelines

Follow this method for safe slugging

If you have dry skin and want to try slugging, follow these steps:

  • Clean the face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser before slugging.
  • On slugging day, use only a hydrating moisturizer or hyaluronic acid. Avoid any kind of exfoliating acids or retinol.
  • Instead of applying a lot of Vaseline all over your face, just use a **pea-sized** amount. Rub it on the palms to warm it slightly and apply a thin layer on the face.
  • If you have combination skin (some dry, some oily), apply it only on the cheeks or dry areas. Avoid applying on T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).

 

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