Skincare junkies, listen up: if your goal is dewy, bouncy skin, hydration is your holy grail. But with two buzzy trends — slugging (slathering your face in a greasy occlusive like Vaseline) and skin flooding (drenching your skin in layers of humectants like hyaluronic acid) — dominating your feed, how do you choose? Let’s decode the hype. Slugging locks in moisture like a clingy Saran Wrap, perfect for parched skin but a potential breakout trigger for oily folks. Skin flooding, meanwhile, is a hydration marathon, layering lightweight serums to plump fine lines and mimic that “glass skin” glow — ideal for combo or sensitive types. The catch? Slugging can feel like sleeping in a chip bag, and skin flooding demands patience (five layers, anyone?). So, which wins? Dry skin stans, grab the petrolatum. Oily or acne-prone? Flood responsibly. Either way, your thirstiest skin cells will thank you.
What is Slugging?
Slugging is a skincare technique that involves applying a thick layer of an occlusive product (like petroleum jelly or thick balms) as the last step in your nighttime routine. The term “slugging” originated from the idea that your face might look shiny and slick like a slug after application.
How Does Slugging Work?
Slugging works by creating a protective barrier over your skin, preventing water loss (transepidermal water loss or TEWL). This helps lock in moisture and allows other hydrating products underneath to work more effectively.
Steps to Slugging:
- Wash your face with a mild cleanser to get rid of dirt, excess oil, and makeup.
- Apply hydrating products: Use serums or lightweight moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
- Seal with an occlusive: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or a similar product to lock in hydration.
- Leave it overnight: In the morning, cleanse your face as usual.
Benefits of Slugging:
- Deep hydration – Prevents moisture loss, making it great for dry skin.
- Restores skin barrier – Helps repair and protect the skin’s natural barrier.
- Affordable – Petroleum jelly is an inexpensive and widely available product.
- Great for winter skincare – Helps combat dryness and irritation during colder months.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Not ideal for oily/acne-prone skin – Can clog pores and trigger breakouts.
- Heavy texture – Some people find it too greasy and uncomfortable.
- Might stain pillowcases – The thick layer can transfer onto bedding.
Best Skin Types for Slugging:
- Dry skin
- Mature skin
- Normal skin (if used sparingly)
- Not recommended for acne-prone or oily skin
What is Skin Flooding?
Skin flooding is a layering technique that involves applying multiple lightweight hydrating products to “flood” the skin with moisture. This method focuses on using water-based ingredients in a strategic order to maximize absorption.
How Does Skin Flooding Work?
Instead of sealing moisture in like slugging, skin flooding delivers hydration deep into the skin by layering humectants (like hyaluronic acid) and lightweight moisturizers. This technique ensures that your skin drinks up as much hydration as possible.
Steps to Skin Flooding:
- Start with damp skin: After cleansing, leave your skin slightly wet to help absorption.
- Apply a hydrating mist or essence: This boosts initial hydration.
- Use a hyaluronic acid serum: Apply while your skin is still damp to trap moisture.
- Layer with a lightweight moisturizer: Choose a water-based, non-greasy formula.
- Seal with an emollient (optional): A light cream or gel locks in the moisture.
Benefits of Skin Flooding:
- Lightweight and non-greasy – Perfect for oily and combination skin.
- Deep hydration without clogging pores – Helps plump and refresh skin.
- Boosts skin elasticity – Hydration improves skin texture and reduces fine lines.
- Can be done daily – Unlike slugging, skin flooding is suitable for everyday use.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Might not be enough for very dry skin – Lacks occlusive protection.
- Requires multiple steps – More products mean more time and effort.
- Can cause irritation if layered incorrectly – Overuse of actives can lead to sensitivity.
Best Skin Types for Skin Flooding:
- Oily skin
- Combination skin
- Dehydrated skin
- Sensitive skin (if using gentle products)
Slugging vs. Skin Flooding: Which One is Better?
Both slugging and skin flooding are effective hydration techniques, but the best choice depends on your skin type, concerns, and preferences.
| Feature | Slugging | Skin Flooding |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Dry, mature, and damaged skin | Oily, combination, and dehydrated skin |
| Hydration Type | Locks in moisture | Adds layers of hydration |
| Key Ingredient | Petroleum jelly or occlusives | Hyaluronic acid, lightweight moisturizers |
| Feel on Skin | Heavy, greasy | Lightweight, refreshing |
| Risk Factors | Clogs pores, greasy feel | Overhydration, irritation from too many layers |
| Best Time to Use | Nighttime routine | Morning and nighttime |
| Season | Best for winter | Works all year round |
Can You Combine Slugging and Skin Flooding?
Yes. If you have combination skin or struggle with seasonal dryness, you can combine both methods strategically:
- Do skin flooding in the morning for lightweight hydration.
- Slug once or twice a week at night to deeply repair the skin barrier.
- Adjust based on climate – Use slugging in winter and skin flooding in humid conditions.