This Cocokind Slugging Balm Is The Best Formula That I've Tried

Ever since slugging took over the skin care space in 2021, occlusive balms have become far more elevated. No longer must you slather on a petroleum-laced product to create a thick, slug-like barrier. Instead you can find a plethora of options infused with non-greasy plant-based occlusives to lock in moisture and leave you dewy—all without making a mess of your pillow. 

Plus, these updated balms simultaneously replenish the skin barrier with healthy lipids (as opposed to those traditional jelly salves, which really just sit atop it to keep precious water locked in). Think of it like slugging 2.0. 

Instead of mineral oil (or beeswax or lanolin, which are common occlusive alternatives), cocokind's formula features sugar-cane-derived squalane, which is known for maintaining the skin's moisture barrier.

"Squalene is a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in your skin. It plays a role in skin hydration and barrier protection," board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D., once said regarding the ingredient. "Squalane is a cousin to squalene that can be produced in the lab from botanical sources. Squalane can give similar emollient benefits to its cousin squalene."

The balm also includes oat kernel oil, which is like colloidal oatmeal's supercharged cousin. As board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, M.D., previously told mbg, "The lipid component of colloidal oatmeal is oat oil."

Nothing against colloidal oat extract—it's a wonderful anti-inflammatory ingredient—but when you apply oat oil, you're directly feeding the skin those targeted, soothing lipids. 

Lastly, the balm contains ceramides, which function as the literal "glue" that holds your skin barrier together. "When applied topically, ceramides mimic the skin's own moisturizing system," says clean cosmetic chemist Krupa Koestline. Research shows creams with ceramides can improve hydration and decrease transepidermal water loss significantly over 24 hours1. 

Rather than applying the formula as an allover slugging balm, I targeted my roughest areas: my forehead, neck, and décolletage. I also applied some balm to my lips for good measure (because, yes, lip slugging is a thing you should be doing). 

Come morning, I was pleasantly surprised to find my skin supple and hydrated. It felt so soft, in fact, that I kept running my fingers over it in disbelief. The results are really that good.

My forehead lines also looked way smoother—practically nonexistent. I kept the balm on my desk with me during the day, too, to rub over my cuticles and replenish my lips. Remember: This is a multipurpose balm that delivers hydration all over, and my hands could certainly use the extra love. 

Overall, I'd say the term "skin salve" is just right. cocokind's Ceramide Recovery Balm is a true savior that calms and nourishes your skin without feeling too heavy or greasy.