K-Beauty Glossary
What is Slugging?
Overnight occlusive seal
Slugging is the K-beauty-named practice of applying a thin layer of occlusive (petrolatum or Aquaphor) as the final step of a nighttime routine. It seals in every other product and reduces TEWL overnight. Excellent for dry and compromised skin. Not recommended for active acne or over retinoids (can trap bacteria or accelerate absorption into damaged barriers).