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Slugging after a chemical peel can provide hydration, promote healing, and result in a smoother, more youthful appearance, often described as 'glass-like' skin.
Slugging usually includes the use of products such as Vaseline, Aquaphor, or other occlusive moisturizers.
But the question is: Which one should you opt for?
Also, is it safe to put these on right after chemical peels, or should you wait? When's the best time to do it?
We've got all your questions about slugging after chemical and exfoliating treatments covered—just keep reading below...
Slugging refers to a nighttime skincare routine where you apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly or some type of occlusive moisturizer to your face before going to bed.
The purpose of slugging is to create a moisture barrier that prevents water loss, and promotes skin hydration during the night.
Believe it or not, but the term was inspired by those slimy little garden adventurers - slugs!
It's all about the thick layer of gooey moisturizer (usually petroleum jelly) that makes your face shine like a slug's trail.
So, when you're slugging in skincare, you're basically turning your face into a glamorous slug runway. Who knew skincare could be so slimy and stylish at the same time?😄
Here's how slugging typically works:
1. At nighttime, clean your face well and dry lightly. Tip: I like to leave my face a little damp to help seal in moisture. Then apply a light layer of petroleum jelly or an occlusive moisturizer to your entire face and lips.
2. Gently massage the product into your skin, ensuring an even layer.
3. Wait 30 minutes before going to bed to allow the moisturizer to sink into the skin.
4. Leave the product on overnight. Then make sure to wash off well in the morning using your usual cleanser.
The safety depends on what type of peel you had and when you had it done.
It's important to note: If you received a professional in-office peel, it's generally recommended to follow your dermatologist's or skincare provider's post-peel care instructions.
This typically includes using gentle, hydrating products and avoiding heavy occlusives until your skin has fully recovered.
Why?
This skincare technique involves applying a thick layer of petroleum jelly or occlusive moisturizer to your face to lock in moisture overnight.
However, after a chemical peel, your skin needs to breathe and heal naturally. Slugging could potentially trap irritants, slow down the healing process, and increase the risk of complications, such as infection or irritation.
Additionally, the main goal of a peel is to remove dead and damaged skin layers. Using thick moisturizers too soon after treatment can slow down this process.
Always consult with a skincare professional for personalized advice based on your specific peel and skin type.
If you've undergone a mild or superficial at-home peel, such as an alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, or lactic acid peel, applying an occlusive moisturizer can help prevent excessive dryness and providing soothing relief.
Personally, my face always feels a bit tight and dry when I do an at-home peel using 70% lactic acid. But slugging before going to bed, really helps relive the tightness and makes my skin look better in the morning.
Remember, everyone is different. So it's important to pay attention to how your face feels. If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue and consult with a skincare professional.
Which is petroleum jelly product is better, Vaseline, Aquaphor, or CeraVe? The choice between these two popular products largely depends on personal preferences.
But, here's a comparison to help you decide which might be better for you:
Vaseline – Is excellent for sealing in moisture, preventing water loss, and creating a protective barrier. It's a purified form of mineral oil and contains 100% petroleum jelly. And, it's very cost-effective.
Aquaphor - Is also excellent for hydration and forms a protective barrier. Aquaphor is used by surgeons, for skin healing and post-surgery care. And, this product contains water, mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin, panthenol, bisabolol and glycerin. So it has better healing and moisturizing capabilities.
CeraVe Healing Ointment – To me, this looks like the best choice because it also contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which are beneficial for skin health. Ceramides help support the skin barrier, and hyaluronic acid provides hydration.
Slugging after a chemical peel, does not mean you should do this immediately after a chemical peel. You should allow your skin a few hours to breath and to slough off dead cells.
Then, that night before going to bed is when you should apply a petroleum based product, whether it's Vaseline or some other type of product.
Sleeping with a petroleum moisturizer overnight helps with healing and keeps your skin hydrated.
In the morning, be sure to thoroughly wash off the petroleum product. And remember to apply sunscreen before heading outdoors.
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