For several years, "Vaseline slugging," which involves generously applying Vaseline to the face, has become popular through social media platforms like TikTok. In 2022 alone, the hashtag '#Slugging' exceeded 150 million views on TikTok. Slugging is said to create a sticky feeling on the skin, similar to a snail passing by, and the term is derived from the word 'slug,' meaning a snail. As autumn, a season when skin tends to become dry, approaches, the number of people trying slugging increases again. But does the 3,000-won Vaseline really help skin health?

 

Vaseline's moisturizing effect is excellent. Vaseline is made from purified residues remaining after extracting petroleum, forming a gel-like substance that coats the skin to prevent moisture from escaping. When the skin lacks moisture, wrinkles form and aging accelerates, but applying Vaseline can prevent this. It is especially effective for people with very dry skin or those who rarely experience skin troubles, making it an effective way to maintain skin health.

However, there are people who should avoid Vaseline slathering. Those with oily skin and insufficient moisture inside the skin may experience worsening of acne and other issues if they use Vaseline slathering. On the face, sebum is released from nearly 10,000 to 30,000 pores, which is different from other parts of the body.

Applying a generous amount of Vaseline can clog pores, trapping sebum inside the skin. Cell debris, keratin produced by cells, and other substances accumulate within the skin, forming small granules called comedones, which can lead to inflammation and immune responses, worsening acne. Additionally, Vaseline only creates a barrier to prevent moisture loss; it does not deliver moisture deep into the skin. People with severe internal dryness may not see significant effects. If redness, itching, or other allergic reactions occur after applying Vaseline, you should immediately stop using it.

 

Even people who rarely experience trouble can develop acne if they excessively apply Vaseline. In thin-skinned areas such as around the eyes, it can also cause milia or other issues, so proper moderation is necessary.

 

For people with very dry skin, it is recommended to apply moisturizer first and then spread a thin layer of Vaseline to prevent moisture loss. Conversely, applying Vaseline beforehand may reduce its moisturizing effect. When removing Vaseline, it is better to use a cotton swab or similar tool rather than your hands to maintain cleanliness and prolong its effectiveness.

 

Applying to areas other than the face is unlikely to block sebum but is effective in protecting moisture.

 

 

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Recently, on TV, a celebrity

They even use Vaseline when washing their hair.

They say your hair becomes moist and improves.

 

I should apply it to my fingernails.

Generous~~