Is slugging good for people with acne?

What is slugging?

Slugging is a K-Beauty skincare term that means applying your face thick layer n petrolatum or Vaseline. This occlusive layer is supposed to prevent trans epidermal water loss and keeps moisture in your skin.

Is slugging good for people with acne?

Unfortunately, slugging is a bad idea for people with acne-prone skin and people with oily skin.

Is slugging with petrolatum (vaseline) good for people with acne?

Petrolatum (brand names Vaseline or Aquaphor) is a by-product of fossil fuel (the same source as the gasoline we use in our cars). It is used by Dermatologists in special skin conditions and in people with very dry skin. That said - it should not be used in people with acne or acne-prone skin. Although Petrolatum is not regarded as comedogenic, it can clog the skin pores and make acne worse. If you are acne-prone or acne-prone, it’s best to avoid petrolatum and anything that’s occlusive. Petrolatum will trap all the bacteria, sebum, and dirt inside your skin pores and cause more acne breakouts.

In the U.S., it’s illegal to sell unrefined petrolatum in skincare due to concerns of carcinogenicity. The FDA requires formulations with over 30% petrolatum to register with the FDA.

What is the alternative to K-beauty slugging?

It seems that the hype around K-beauty is decreasing. The lengthy protocols with dozens of steps and low anti-acne efficacy of K-beauty products have caused disappointment and frustration for many K-beauty "fans." Some of the K beauty methods - i.e., slugging, can also cause acne breakouts.

A better moisturizing alternative for people with acne or acne-prone would be oil-free moisturizers that coalition with Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. These are nonocclusive humectants that keep the moisture in the skin (hyaluronic acid) and protect the natural skin barrier (Niacinamide)

For more info, check this link.

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