These days, there are a lot of nail trends on TikTok (looking at you, glazed donut nails), but the most recent trend is not really novel. TikTokers have been “nail slugging” by nourishing their cuticles with cuticle oil and/or moisture-sealing treatments like Aquaphor ointment and Vaseline. Although not particularly novel, the technique is the key to having soft, elastic skin and nails.
The process for nail slugging (also known as cuticle slugging), a skin-care practice popularized in South Korea recently, is the same as that for other types of slugging. According to Neda Mehr, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Newport Beach, California and medical director at Pure Dermatology Cosmetic andamp; Hair Center , the procedure entails “covering your skin with a thick ointment-based moisturizer or petroleum as the last step in your skin care routine before night.” The final outcome? Thanks to the moisturizing components of these emollient (softening) lotions, skin is dewy and almost glass-like.
The same reasoning also holds true for your nails, as TikTokers have learned, especially if your hands have been feeling particularly parched, scaly, and irritable. Your fingernails are probably affected when the skin around them (also known as the cuticle bed) is dry. According to celebrity nail stylist Elle Gerstein , “Nails are like a sponge when they’re dehydrated they’re hard, can split, and turn brittle.” Hangnails, annoying skin growths surrounding the fingernail, dry, damaged skin, and/or weak-feeling nails can all result from this.
As TikTokers, notably @lovefreshpaint , have shown on the app, this is where nail slugging comes into play. When you consistently “slug” your nails before bed, the practice is simple and has a big payout.
Most users begin by rubbing a few drops of cuticle oil into each nail bed on the skin around each nail. For optimal moisture replacement, Gerstein previously advised looking for an oil with ultra-hydrating vitamin E or jojoba oil. Then, “slug” each fingertip with the occlusive (a substance that creates a barrier on the skin’s surface to trap in moisture) of your choice, like Vaseline or Aquaphor Healing Ointment.
The trend is not just dermatologist-approved (see the OG nail slugging video posted in March 2022 by self-proclaimed “derm doc” Charles Puza, M.D. aka @drcharlesmd ), but it’s also a quick and simple solution to rehydrate dry, sensitive skin and peeling, chipped nails. Your nails will feel, look, and function stronger, suppler, and healthier if you do this regularly. If you frequently use acrylate-based nail products, such as acrylics, tips/extensions, and gel manicures, which can harm your nails and cuticle beds, it can be a game changer when the weather is harsh and dry.
ICYDK, your nails are a window into your general health, so if you’ve recently observed changes in their texture, color, or form, you might want to consult your doctor. According to Salar Parvini , D.C., holistic skin-care expert and founder of Saffron andamp; Sage Skincare , sudden changes in your skin and nails might be a sign of a variety of health issues, such as thyroid disorders, lung diseases, renal disease, iron insufficiency, chronic dehydration, or a vitamin B7 deficit. There’s no reason to worry, as changes could just be hereditary or the inevitable byproduct of age. If you’re worried, your doctor can help you rule out any underlying issues.
Try nail slugging instead if your cuticles are simply ordinary dry ones. Your cuticles will appreciate the affection. (Upcoming: Tips for Using Key Nail Grooming Equipment for Perfect DIY Manicures)
