In the ever-evolving world of skincare, we’re constantly discovering new techniques to achieve that coveted healthy glow. One method that has gained popularity is the use of occlusives to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. While you may have heard this technique referred to as “slugging” in skincare communities, we prefer a more appetizing term: glazing. After all, who wouldn’t want skin that looks as delicious and glowy as a freshly glazed donut?
Before diving into occlusives and glazing, it’s important to understand what the skin barrier actually is. The outermost layer of your skin, known as the stratum corneum, acts as your body’s first line of defense against environmental aggressors. This barrier is composed of corneocytes (dead skin cells) held together by lipids (fats), including ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids—think of it as bricks and mortar. Check out our Skin Barrier Health 101 blog to learn more.
Occlusives are ingredients that create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL)—essentially stopping moisture from evaporating from the skin. Unlike humectants that draw water into the skin or emollients that soften and smooth, occlusives work by creating a protective seal.
Glazing is the art of applying occlusive products as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine to lock in all the goodness from your previous products. Just like a baker applies a sweet glaze to seal in the moisture of a donut, you’re applying a protective layer to seal in hydration and active ingredients.
The beauty of glazing is that it works while you sleep—when your skin naturally goes into repair mode. You’ll wake up with plump, dewy, and hydrated skin.
When it comes to effective glazing, having the right products makes all the difference. Sorella Apothecary offers an exceptional duo that works in perfect harmony to provide the ultimate glazing experience:
This velvety overnight treatment is a vital first step in your glazing routine. Rich and deeply hydrating, The Balm delivers intense moisture and nourishment to your skin. Its luxurious formula replenishes your skin’s appearance, leaving it noticeably plumper, smoother, and hydrated.
Sorella’s Facial Nectar is the star occlusive in this perfect pairing. This nutrient-rich blend of pure oils creates a crucial barrier that locks in all the balm’s hydrating benefits. The Facial Nectar forms a protective seal that prevents moisture loss while you sleep, ensuring all the goodness from The Balm stays where it belongs—in your skin.
The combination of The Balm followed by Facial Nectar creates the ideal glazing experience—first delivering deep hydration and nourishment, then sealing everything in with a protective occlusive barrier.
For those times when your skin barrier needs serious rehabilitation, Sorella’s Rehab Recovery Mask steps in as your skin’s best friend. This soothing cream mask is perfect for your glazing routine, especially when your skin feels tired, irritated, or compromised.
Featuring star ingredients like avocado and meadowfoam seed oil, the Rehab Recovery Mask soothes and recharges your complexion while supporting barrier function. What sets it apart is its flexibility—use it as a traditional 15-minute mask or leave it on overnight as a sleeping mask for an enhanced recovery experience.
The beauty of the glazing technique is that it can benefit virtually everyone, though it’s particularly transformative for:
If you have acne-prone or extremely oily skin, use glazing more selectively, focusing on dry patches or limiting it to once or twice a week.
Your skin barrier is your body’s first line of defense, and keeping it healthy should be a top skincare priority. By incorporating occlusives through the glazing technique, you’re not just following a trend—you’re embracing a scientifically sound approach to skin health.
With Sorella Apothecary’s The Balm, Facial Nectar, and Rehab Recovery Mask, you have all the tools you need to repair, protect, and enhance your skin barrier health. Give your complexion the sweet treatment it deserves, and enjoy waking up to skin that’s as glossy, dewy, and irresistible as a freshly glazed donut!
Remember: Consistency is key with skincare. Incorporate glazing into your routine 2-3 times a week (or more for very dry skin), and you’ll soon see why this deliciously effective technique has become a staple in skincare routines everywhere.
