In the world of skincare, trends come and go. One of the latest trends making the rounds is “slugging,” where you coat your face with a thick layer of petroleum-based products like Vaseline overnight to “lock in moisture.”

While it may seem like a quick fix for dry or irritated skin, as an organic skincare formulator, I’m here to explain why you should avoid this trend—for both the health of your skin and the planet.

What Is Slugging?

Slugging has its origins in K-Beauty routines and involves slathering your face in occlusive substances, primarily petrolatum (a.k.a. petroleum jelly), before bed. The idea is that it creates a barrier on your skin, trapping moisture inside and preventing water loss. For those with severely dry skin, it’s pitched as a miracle solution to prevent moisture from evaporating while you sleep.

But before you reach for that tub of Vaseline, let’s explore why this seemingly simple hack might be doing more harm than good.

Why You Shouldn’t Do It

1. Petroleum-Based Products Aren’t Skin-Friendly

Petrolatum is a by-product of crude oil refining. It might sound harmless, but studies suggest that the molecular structure of petroleum jelly forms a water-impermeable barrier on the skin. This can clog pores and lead to acne, irritation, and inflammation in those with sensitive or combination skin types.

A study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology highlights that while occlusive products can help with hydration in the short term, they can impair the skin’s natural barrier function over time, leading to increased dryness and sensitivity.

Moreover, petrolatum does nothing to actively nourish or repair the skin. While it seals in moisture, it doesn’t offer any beneficial nutrients like vitamins, antioxidants, or essential fatty acids—things that your skin craves to heal and thrive. Organic alternatives like safflower oil are far superior as they provide nutrients that actively benefit your skin.

2. It’s Bad for the Planet

Petrolatum isn’t just bad for your skin—it’s bad for the environment, too. As a by-product of the petroleum industry, its production is tied to fossil fuel extraction, which is one of the leading contributors to climate change. Not to mention, petrolatum itself is not biodegradable, meaning every bit that gets washed off your face will eventually end up in our water systems and soils, potentially harming wildlife and ecosystems.

A report by the European Commission found that petroleum-based ingredients can persist in the environment, potentially releasing harmful chemicals into the soil and water. Switching to plant-based alternatives like organic oils helps reduce your carbon footprint and protects our planet’s precious ecosystems.

3. It Can Disrupt the Skin’s Natural Barrier

Your skin has a natural lipid barrier that regulates hydration and keeps irritants out. When you apply petroleum jelly, you’re essentially overriding this barrier. A 2020 study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology found that prolonged use of occlusive agents like petrolatum can lead to a weakened stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of your skin. Over time, this can cause your skin to become dependent on occlusive products for hydration, making it more susceptible to dryness and irritation when the product is removed.

Instead, opt for skincare ingredients that work in harmony with your skin's natural processes. Organic safflower oil, for example, is a light, non-comedogenic oil rich in linoleic acid that helps to repair the skin’s moisture barrier without suffocating it.

A Better Alternative? Use Obvs Skincare’s Naked or Evening Lavender Moisturisers

Instead of resorting to petroleum-based slugging, why not treat your skin to something far better? The Obvs Skincare Naked Moisturiser is an ideal choice. It's packed with nourishing ingredients like organic safflower oil and shea butter, which hydrate without blocking your pores or disrupting your skin’s natural barrier. This product gives your skin the moisture it needs, while also delivering the nutrients it craves to repair and thrive.

For an even more luxurious experience, you can use the Obvs Skincare Organic Evening Lavender Moisturiser before bed. This calming blend not only hydrates but also helps you unwind with the soothing aroma of organic lavender, making it the perfect night-time treatment.

Conclusion

While the allure of slugging may seem tempting for those looking to solve dry skin issues overnight, the reality is that using petroleum-based products can do more harm than good. For the health of both your skin and the planet, it’s important to choose products that are not only effective but also sustainable.

If you’re looking to lock in moisture, reach for plant-based, organic alternatives like the Naked or Evening Lavender Moisturiser from Obvs Skincare. Your skin—and the environment—will thank you.

References:

1. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology: Petrolatum and Occlusive Agents in Skincare
2. European Commission Report: Petroleum's Environmental Impact
3. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology: Study on Occlusive Agents and the Skin Barrier