Slugging & Skin Cycling

Slugging & Skin Cycling: Are These Viral Trends Worth It?

Skincare trends come and go, but some of the most talked-about ones lately are slugging and skin cycling. You’ve probably seen them all over TikTok and Instagram—but are they actually good for your skin? Let’s break down the pros, cons, and how to do them safely.

✨ What is Slugging?

Slugging is the practice of applying a thick layer of an occlusive (like petroleum jelly or Aquaphor) at the end of your skincare routine to lock in moisture overnight. Just be careful that you aren’t using the Vaseline that has Shea Butter added to it – that is a commonly missed pore clogger.

✅ Pros:

  • Excellent for very dry or compromised skin.

  • Helps repair the skin barrier.

  • Locks in hydration from serums and moisturizers.

❌ Cons:

  • Not ideal in hot, humid climates.

  • If layered over your actives, it can trap irritation.

💡 Safe Slugging Tips:

  • Only apply over gentle, hydrating products (skip retinol or strong acids underneath).

  • Start 1–2 nights per week to see how your skin responds.

  • Best for dry, sensitive, or mature skin types.

🌙 What is Skin Cycling?

Skin cycling is a structured routine that rotates active ingredients (like exfoliants and retinol) with recovery nights to give your skin time to heal.

A popular 4-night cycle looks like this:

  1. Night 1 – Exfoliation (AHA/BHA)

  2. Night 2 – Retinol

  3. Night 3 & 4 – Recovery (gentle cleanser + moisturizer only)

✅ Pros:

  • Reduces the risk of irritation from strong actives.

  • Encourages consistency and structure in skincare.

  • Great for beginners learning how to use actives.

❌ Cons:

  • Not the best or most effective way to introduce actives (in our professional opinion)

  • Requires patience to see results.

  • Can possibly confuse the skin.

💡 Safe Skin Cycling Tips:

  • Always pair actives with SPF during the day.

  • See an Esthetician for professional skincare advice on HOW and WHAT actives you should be using for your skin concerns.

  • Start slowly if you’re new to actives.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Between slugging and skin cycling—we prefer slugging. Personally, I like to stick to a routine where I set my skin up for success with daily exfoliation, not specific to certain days. Remember, acne prone skin will need a different protocol than the average skin. At Poppin Skin Spa, we love helping clients cut through the online noise and find what really works. If you’re curious whether these trends are right for you, book a consultation and let’s build a routine that supports your unique skin!