Can you slug with tretinoin?

Why is slugging over tretinoin a problem?

Slugging means leaving petroleum jelly on your skin overnight. The ointment forms an occlusive layer, meaning a seal that limits water loss. That can help dehydrated skin retain moisture and repair its protective barrier, but retinoids trapped underneath can cause irritation. Tretinoin belongs to that medication group. The same caution applies to alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids beneath the layer.12

What should you do on tretinoin nights?

1. 1Wash your hands and treatment area with a mild cleanser that is not medicated or abrasive. Let your skin dry as directed.
2. 2Apply a thin layer of tretinoin exactly as prescribed, usually at bedtime. Keep it away from your eyes, mouth and nose corners, and do not apply it to sunburned skin or areas affected by eczema.
3. 3Use moisturizer to help manage dryness rather than adding a petroleum jelly seal over the medication.

If tretinoin irritates your skin, your dermatologist can recommend a smaller amount, less frequent use or moisturizer before the medication. Make those changes with their help rather than skipping prescribed doses to make room for slugging. Applying moisturizer first is an option for reducing irritation, not the same routine as sealing tretinoin under an ointment.3

How can you slug on a night without tretinoin?

Slugging does not require special skincare products, despite the internet's ability to turn bedtime into a shopping list. Choose plain petroleum jelly or an ointment with minimal additional ingredients.1

1. 1Cleanse and moisturize. Leave retinoids and exfoliating acids out of this routine.
2. 2Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly. You can cover only dry areas rather than your whole face; petroleum jelly works best on damp skin.
3. 3Allow about 30 minutes before bed, then leave the layer on overnight.
4. 4Wash your face gently in the morning to remove the ointment and anything stuck to it.

A towel can protect your pillowcase from the sticky layer, because bedding did not sign up for the routine. Slugging is generally an occasional response to dryness, not an every night requirement; a couple of nights can be enough before reassessing.1

Who should skip slugging?

Skip facial slugging if you have oily or acne prone skin: petroleum jelly can cause breakouts in some people. That matters if acne is the reason you use tretinoin. Do not slug over infected skin or open wounds. For acne prone skin, choose skincare labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores, and avoid scrubbing.145

When should you contact your doctor?

Stop slugging and see a dermatologist if it leaves your skin red or irritated. Tell your tretinoin prescriber about severe or persistent burning, peeling, swelling or blistering. Call your doctor immediately for rash, hives, or treatment area pain or discomfort. Hot, swollen skin or deep, painful acne that causes scars also needs medical attention.125

Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding; call them if you become pregnant while using tretinoin. During treatment, protect exposed skin with shade, clothing and a water resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.23