What is the evidence for mucoid impaction (slugging)?

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Last updated: April 24, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

There is no evidence to support the use of slugging in the provided studies, as they focus on inflammatory bowel disease and endoscopic management of perforations in the gastrointestinal tract, rather than skin care or slugging. The studies provided do not mention slugging or its effects on skin conditions, but rather discuss topics such as steroid dependency, mucosal healing, and endoscopic vacuum therapy 1.

  • The first study, published in 2019, focuses on the management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults and discusses concepts such as treat to target, therapeutic drug monitoring, and patient-related outcomes 1.
  • The second study, published in 2021, provides an update on the endoscopic management of perforations in the gastrointestinal tract, including the use of endoscopic vacuum therapy and over-the-scope clips 1. Given the lack of relevant information, it is not possible to make a recommendation about slugging based on the provided studies. However, in general, slugging involves applying an occlusive product to the skin to lock in moisture and prevent water loss, which can be beneficial for dry skin conditions.
  • It is essential to note that slugging should be done with caution, especially for those with acne-prone or oily skin, as it may trap oils and worsen breakouts.
  • The practice of slugging should be done 2-3 times weekly, rather than nightly, to avoid potential clogged pores while still receiving hydration benefits. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalized advice on skin care and slugging.

From the Research

Evidence for Slugging

There are no direct research papers to assist in answering this question. However, some studies provide information on the use of topical emollients and moisturizers in treating dry skin conditions, which may be related to the concept of slugging.

  • The use of emollients and moisturizers can help restore skin hydration and barrier function, as discussed in studies 2, 3, 4.
  • Certain ingredients, such as petrolatum, glycerol, and urea, have been shown to be effective in improving skin hydration and reducing dryness, as mentioned in studies 3, 5, 4.
  • The selection of appropriate emollients and moisturizers is important, as different products may have varying effects on the skin, as noted in study 4.
  • Some studies suggest that emollients and moisturizers can be tailored to address specific skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, as discussed in studies 2, 3, 4.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

The management of dry skin with topical emollients--recent perspectives.

Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft = Journal of the German Society of Dermatology : JDDG, 2005

Research

Petroleum jelly: A comprehensive review of its history, uses, and safety.

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2024

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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