Slugging Explained By A Dermatologist. The Skincare Trend Most People Get Wrong

📲 Download The Skin Real app for science backed routines, dermatologist guidance, and product recommendations you can trust. https://linktr.ee/theskinreal

TikTok and Instagram may have made Slugging famous, but dermatologists have relied on this technique for decades. In this episode, board certified dermatologist Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down what slugging really is, how it works, and why most people do it wrong.

Slugging uses a simple occlusive layer such as petrolatum to seal the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. The result is stronger hydration and improved barrier repair. While social media frames it as a trendy skincare hack, dermatologists often recommend it for eczema, psoriasis, post procedure healing, and severely dry skin.

Dr. Mina explains why the order of your skincare routine matters, which products work best under a slugging layer, and why applying petrolatum over actives like retinoids or vitamin C often leads to irritation. She also shares when slugging helps, when it hurts your skin, and who should skip it completely.

You will learn the dermatologist approved step by step method for slugging, the difference between traditional slugging and reverse slugging, and the simple products that work best. No expensive creams required.

If you want a practical way to repair a damaged skin barrier and wake up with calmer, hydrated skin, this episode explains exactly how to do it safely.

In this episode:

00:00 Intro 00:42 What Slugging Actually Is 02:10 Why Dermatologists Have Used Slugging For Decades 03:45 How Slugging Protects The Skin Barrier 05:00 The Biggest Slugging Mistake With Active Ingredients 06:35 The Right Way To Layer Products Before Slugging 08:05 Who Should Be Slugging 09:30 Who Should Avoid Slugging 11:05 Dermatologist Step By Step Slugging Routine 13:05 Best Products For Slugging 15:05 What Is Reverse Slugging 16:20 Slugging Myths And Common Mistakes 17:05 Final Takeaways And Skin Real App

Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!

Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!

Follow Dr. Mina here: Instagram: https://instagram.com/drminaskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drminaskin/

Visit The Skin Real Serenbe: https://theskinrealserenbe.com/

Book your Meet and Greet here

Alzheimer’s Association 2026 Dancing Stars of Atlanta Donate to Vote: https://act.alz.org/site/TR/Gala/GA-Georgia?pg=personal&px=25632271&fr_id=19246

Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.