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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

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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.

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