How to Use Vaseline on Your Face (Slugging) Without Making Your Skin Worse

Slugging is everywhere on social media—usually shown as a thick, shiny layer of Vaseline over the entire face. It looks like an instant "glass skin" hack… but if you copy what you see on TikTok, you can easily end up with clogged pores, breakouts, or irritation.

In this post, I'm breaking down what Vaseline actually is, what it does to your skin, and the right way to use it—especially if your main concern is dryness and fine lines (not oiliness).

What Is Vaseline?

Vaseline is petroleum jelly—a highly refined, purified form of mineral oil derivatives.

Historically, it was commercialized in the late 1800s when people noticed workers in oil-producing areas applying a waxy substance to dry, cracked skin. The modern product is a highly refined version designed for safe use on skin.

The important part: Vaseline is not a moisturizer.

It does not add water to the skin. Instead, it forms a protective film on top of the skin.

What Does Vaseline Do for Your Skin?

Vaseline mainly does three things:

1) It creates a protective "shield"

Your skin naturally has a barrier function—but when you're stressed, dehydrated, sleep-deprived, or your barrier is compromised, it can feel like your skin can't protect itself properly. Vaseline acts like a top coat that supports your skin when it's struggling.

2) It helps prevent moisture loss

Even if you apply a great moisturizer, your skin can still feel dry because water evaporates throughout the day (this is often called transepidermal water loss). Vaseline helps by sealing your skincare underneath so it lasts longer.

3) It can improve the look of fine lines caused by dryness

Fine lines often look worse when skin is dehydrated. Think of dry paper: it creases and holds lines easily. When it's softened and hydrated, it looks smoother.

Vaseline won't erase deep wrinkles, but if your fine lines are mainly from dryness, using it consistently for 2–4 weeks can make skin look more plump and smooth.

The Biggest Slugging Mistake: Using Too Much

This is the #1 reason slugging goes wrong.

If you apply Vaseline in a thick layer the way it's shown in viral videos, you risk:

clogged pores
breakouts (especially if you're oily/acne-prone)
trapping dirt/bacteria on the skin

Slugging is not "face-glazing." It's a thin seal over clean, moisturized skin.

How to Apply Vaseline on Your Face (The Right Way)

Here's the method I recommend based on what actually works in real life:

Step 1) Start with clean skin

Slugging should only happen on a clean face. If you apply Vaseline over sweat, dust, sunscreen residue, or makeup, you can trap that under the film—leading to irritation or breakouts.

Do this after washing your face.

Step 2) Moisturize first

Vaseline is not a substitute for moisturizer.

Moisturizer = adds hydration + supports barrier
Vaseline = locks it in

So always apply your moisturizer first, then seal with Vaseline.

Step 3) Use a pea-sized amount (seriously)

Use a Q-tip (more hygienic), scoop a tiny amount (about a pea-sized amount), then:

Warm it between your fingers
Spread it into a very thin layer
Gently press onto the face

Your goal is "sealed," not "slippery."

Step 4) Use it at night (and cleanse in the morning)

For most people, slugging works best at night only.

In the morning, cleanse gently—especially if you slugged:

A mild, gentle cleanser is best
A mildly acidic cleanser can work well (not harsh/stripping)

If you have very dry skin and normally only rinse with water in the morning, consider using a gentle cleanser on slugging nights.

Where to Apply More (Targeted Slugging)

If your goal is fine lines, you don't have to coat the entire face evenly.

Use a tiny bit more on areas that dry out easily:

under-eye area (if tolerated)
between the brows
smile lines
neck lines

Targeted application is often more effective—and less likely to cause breakouts.

Can You Use Vaseline During the Day?

You can, but most people don't need to.

If you do:

apply an even smaller amount than at night
avoid heavy makeup on top (it can melt/slide)
always finish with sunscreen

In general, daytime slugging is not necessary unless you're extremely dry.

Who Should Avoid Vaseline (Or Be Very Careful)

Slugging is not for everyone.

Avoid or limit Vaseline if you are:

very oily or get excess sebum easily
acne-prone and break out with occlusive layers
easily congested (whiteheads/closed comedones)

Vaseline can make oily skin feel heavier and may increase the chance of congestion if you overapply.

Also stop using it if:

you feel itchy
you notice irritation
your skin breaks out repeatedly

Even though Vaseline is generally safe for many people, sensitivity can happen.

Does Vaseline Cause Cancer? (Common Misunderstanding)

This myth comes up often.

Vaseline sold for skincare use is a highly refined petroleum product and has been widely used for over a century. Many cosmetics and ointments use refined petroleum derivatives as well.

The key is: use reputable products and avoid unverified sources.

Can Vaseline Replace a Moisturizer?

No.

A moisturizer provides hydration and beneficial ingredients. Vaseline provides a film that prevents water from escaping.

The best results come from:

Moisturizer → thin layer of Vaseline

Think of Vaseline as the final "seal," not the main skincare step.

My Best Advice (If You're Dry, Thin-Skinned, and Seeing Fine Lines)

If you have dry skin and your fine lines show up more as you age, slugging can be one of the cheapest, highest-impact habits—if you do it correctly.

Start small:

pea-sized amount
night-only
always on clean skin
always over moisturizer

Give it 2–4 weeks, and pay attention to how your skin responds.

Key Takeaways

Vaseline is an occlusive (a seal), not a moisturizer.
Slugging can reduce dryness and improve the look of fine lines over time.
The right amount is tiny—not the thick layer you see online.
Best use: night only, over moisturizer, then cleanse gently in the morning.
Oily/acne-prone skin should avoid or do very targeted use.

FAQ

1) How often should I slug with Vaseline?

Start 2–3 nights per week. If your skin tolerates it well and you're very dry, you can increase gradually.

2) Will Vaseline clog pores?

It can if you apply too much or if you're oily/acne-prone. The safest method is a very thin layer on clean skin.

3) Can I slug if I have acne?

If you're acne-prone, proceed with caution. Consider targeted slugging only on dry areas instead of the whole face.

4) Can I slug under my eyes?

Some people can, especially if they have dryness-related fine lines, but use a tiny amount and stop if irritation happens.

5) Do I need to slug every night to see results?

Not necessarily. Consistency helps, but even a few nights a week can reduce dryness.

6) Is Vaseline better than expensive creams?

It's not "better," it's different. Vaseline seals hydration. Expensive creams can provide active ingredients—both can work together.