While there’s no shortage of skincare fads promising flawless, younger-looking skin, dermatologists say one trend taking the internet by storm -- called slugging -- might actually be good for you. But Consumer Reports warns, other trends can be downright harmful.
Comparisons to a slimy mollusk as part of your beauty routine might not sound very appealing, but petroleum jelly for skin care use has been around for more than a hundred years.
Fast forward to today. “Slugging” has become a TikTok sensation, with a whopping 282 million views. The claim: Apply the sticky stuff on your face at bedtime and slugging believers all but guarantee you’ll wake up to “glass skin” in the morning.
“Slugging will make you look as clear as glass is debatable, but for a lot of people, it can be super beneficial,” said Consumer Reports Editor Angela Lashbrook.
CONSUMER REPORTS: Slugging can be good for you
Consumer Reports says it’s better for people with dry, aging, or damaged skin. Why? Petroleum jelly -- found in products like Vaseline and Aquaphor -- helps to lock in moisture by acting as a protective barrier.
The downside is it can lead to irritation and breakouts if you first apply retinol products, acne-fighting ingredients or alpha hydroxy acids found in anti-aging creams.
The craze doesn’t stop there. “Hair slugging,” said to promote hair growth, is also gaining traction. But Consumer Reports says not so fast. Putting petroleum jelly on your scalp won’t help it grow and could worsen dandruff. But, applying it to your ends can keep hair hydrated.
CONSUMER REPORTS: Hair slugging can make or break your hair
There’s also another beauty trend with people: Twice a day face washing. Consumer Reports says it may not always be necessary. Washing to remove dirt and make-up is a must, but it’s very important to know your skin type.
“If you have dry or sensitive skin you can probably get by, by just rinsing in the morning and then at night you can wash your face. If you have oily skin, you’re going to probably wash twice a day,” said Lashbrook.
CONSUMER REPORTS: Some are washing their face too much
Another beauty trend getting a definite thumbs down from Consumer Reports: Skin-lightening creams. Marketed toward darker-skinned women, these products may contain harmful chemicals, like mercury.
“A lot of these chemicals have been linked to hormonal changes -- even cancer -- so be sure to read the labels and stay away,” Lashbrook explained.
Sunscreen is one skin care regimen that never goes out of vogue. Consumer Reports says it’s important to protect your skin year-round from powerful and damaging ultraviolet rays.
Consumer Reports sunscreen test: Which brands came out on top?
The experts at Consumer Reports recently tested a variety of different sunscreens from different brands and price points. The ones that came out on top include:
- Equate (Walmart) Ultra Lotion SPF 50 for $5
- Alba Botanica Hawaiian Coconut Clear Spray SPF 50 for $9.50