:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1309983153-a87d0ec720704f8180db0628ea8e966e.jpg)
In case you're unaware, slugging is a method that entails layering on occlusive ointments to help hydrate and create a "glow" overnight. It leaves skin looking somewhat slimy and slippery like a slug, hence the name.
Dr. Marisa Garshick said the idea of slugging has been around for a long time.
"Even without its name, we've been utilizing the concept for certain skin conditions, like hand dermatitis or other types of eczema as well, as post-laser resurfacing," explained Dr. Garshick.
Enthusiasts of slugging say it's a game-changer, particularly for perpetually dry skin. However, as with everything else in the world of beauty, fans have unearthed yet another use for this intense skin-conditioning technique. And while we don't expect anyone to stop slugging their faces, we do foresee more starting to do it on their feet.
Meet the expert
Yes, you read that right: Foot slugging may be the solution you've been waiting for if you have dry or cracked feet.
Why You Should "Slug" Your Feet
For those who suffer from dry feet, cracked heels, or can never seem to get their feet to feel soft enough, foot slugging is probably the missing step in your foot care routine.
According to Dr. Ebonie Vincent, feet are one of the most neglected parts of the body and often host the driest skin since they lack oil glands. As a result, heels can crack, peel, and split and, in severe cases, develop painful fissures (dry open wounds in the feet). Thankfully, foot slugging can change all of that.
The Main Benefits of Foot Slugging
Olivia van Iderstine said slugging can dramatically improve dry skin instantly and over time.
"The feet do so much, so be sure to show them a little love a few times a week so they're feeling their best," van Iderstine said.
That said, in the same way slugging prevents water loss from the skin on the face, it does the same for the thick, dry skin on the feet.
"Combine that with the fact that people go barefoot or wear thin sandals and expose their feet to humidity, heat, and cold weather, [and] slugging to the feet [is] a necessary trend to adopt," said Dr. Vincent.
Regular foot slugging also helps restore the skin barrier of the feet by "creating a thick, protective layer around them."
"It's the process of layering humectant products that hydrate around the skin first and then sealing it in," added van Iderstine.
Who Shouldn't Try This Approach
If you're lucky enough to have feet that don't display signs of cracks, splits, or peeling, slugging will still help keep them healthy and feeling soft.
"Hydrated, happy feet take a gorgeous pedi to the next level," said van Iderstine.
However, there are times when one should skip slugging altogether, like when the feet are incredibly sweaty or there's an active case of athlete's foot, foot fungus, or bacterial infection.
VIDEO: "Slugging" Is TikTok's Favorite Cheap Skin Care Hack for Ridiculously Soft Skin
The Right Way to Do It
Cleanse and Exfoliate
It's best to do this with products containing urea or lactic acid. Emily Splichal, a functional podiatrist and CEO of Naboso, said the acids slowly eat away at dry skin.
Alternatively, you can use an electric callus remover — like the Flawless Finish Flawless Pedi, which is easy to operate. You can also soak your feet in warm water, which she explained allows the skin to absorb the moisture into the skin.
Moisturize
Next, apply a moisturizing foot cream or balm that contains shea or cocoa butter, like Olive & June Foot Serum, to add a dose of hydration. Van Iderstine said the hydration products you choose to apply get a chance to do their best work because they'll be locked in by the occlusive.
Apply the Occlusive
Afterwards, layer on a thick coat of a petrolatum-based occlusive (it creates a barrier on the surface) to seal in moisture, like the cult-classic Aquaphor, Vaseline All-Over Body Balm Stick, or CeraVe Healing Ointment, which contains hyaluronic acid.
Even super thick butters, including the new Drunk Elephant Wonderwild Miracle Butter and Dr. Garshick's pick, Yawoni Ultra Nourishing Body Butter, are options for nourishing dry and compromised skin. However, if your product comes in a tub or jar, Dr. Garshick recommended using a spatula to scoop out the ointment. This way, "your hands don't reintroduce dirt or bacteria into the jar."
Wrap Your Feet
To seal everything in place and, of course, make it easier to walk around, wrap the feet with Saran Wrap and then slip on a pair of fuzzy socks.
"You don't want to walk around with petroleum jelly on your feet since it is slippery and can cause you to fall," warned Dr. Garshick.
Seeing Results
The morning after slugging, the feet and heels should emerge softer and more hydrated.
"They'll have a glowy, almost lit-from-within look with a subtle sheen, too," said van Iderstine. "If you're experiencing dry, cracked heels, you should see those cracks slowly heal and close over time."
Pro tip: van Iderstine said it's always best to leave a hydrating product undisturbed while it works (aka "set it and forget it" at night). Plus, at night, the skin and body are in repair mode, making the act of foot slugging a bit more therapeutic and serving as a mode of relaxing self-care. That's something we can all benefit from.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qrrSrbClnV6YvK57wZ6YrqypZMCstc1onainpGLArcHGoKCnnw%3D%3D