The skincare sector is adding new ingredients under its umbrella all the time. Some are well-known and accepted, while others are strange and intriguing.
Snail mucin is one of the most recent substances to take the cosmetics world by storm. When you think about snails, the last thing that comes to mind is probably skincare—until now. Yes, the slow-moving, slimy critters are making their way into fan-favorite serums and creams. They also get some buzz for their capacity to nourish and rejuvenate your skin. [1]
In this article, we’ll look at the potential benefits of using snail mucin for your skin.
What is Snail Mucin?
Simply put, it’s snail excrement, which is why it’s also known as snail secretion filtrate, or SSF, and appears on ingredient labels. Snails release this mucin to protect themselves. It’s worth noting that this isn’t an excretion that comes out every time the snail moves but rather a material that the snail excretes when it’s stressed.
Snail Mucin’s Skin Care Benefits
Snail mucin has a long history of skin treatment. Ancient Greeks also used snail mucin for various purposes.
The dermis, chondroitin sulfate, and mucin prevent aging and dry skin. They play a role in collagen fiber formation, skin regeneration through hydration, and oxidation inhibition in the cosmetics industry. [2]
These ingredients and effects are beneficial for:
- Cell regeneration
- Wound prevention
- Wound healing
- Moisturization
The mucin contains hyaluronic acid, which has hydrating characteristics that strengthen the skin barrier. The glycolic acid stimulates collagen formation, which helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles and gives your skin a beautiful, young glow. Studies have shown a link between snail mucin and anti-aging. [3]
Using snail mucin regularly will leave your skin smoother, more hydrated, and radiant.
1. Hydrates Skin
The moisturizing qualities of snail mucus are well-known. The hyaluronic acid component attracts water to the skin’s surface. Think of it as a sponge that absorbs water and provides the skin with a plumped appearance. Snail mucin is an excellent product for anyone with dry skin.
2. Boosts Collagen Production
Growth factors found in snail mucus enhance collagen formation. Increased collagen production leads to healthier skin, hair, and nails.
3. Exfoliates Skin
Do you have flaky and rough skin? Well then, Snail mucin is the answer to your problems! The Glycolic acid in mucin exfoliates your skin by eliminating dead skin cells. This also helps to balance out the pigmentation and appearance of your skin.
4. Acne-free Skin
Snail mucus contains acids that are excellent acne fighters. They remove excess oil from the skin without removing it. It also has anti-inflammatory qualities, which help to reduce the size and redness of pimples.
5. Soothes Irritation
Allantoin, another essential component in snail mucin, is a therapeutic agent that soothes inflammation, smoothes the skin, and stimulates cell regeneration.
6. Maintains Your Glow
Copper peptides can help you get a faster tan while also gently exfoliating your skin with glycolic acid, leaving you with a bright, revitalized, and healthy glow.
7. Acne Scars and Pigmentation Fade
The list goes on and on! Snail mucus contains glycolic acid, which gently exfoliates your skin to remove damaged skin cells and make room for healthy ones. Its collagen-boosting properties also aid in the healing of acne scars. Many products on the market contain snail mucin, which is used to balance out skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation.
8. Delivers Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Snail mucus contains a variety of skin-friendly elements, such as anti-inflammatory zinc and skin-healing manganese. It contains copper peptides, which are famous for their collagen-boosting and wrinkle-reducing properties. Vitamins A and E complete the package with their strong antioxidant properties.
How To Use Snail Mucin For Your Skin
Snail mucin is available in a range of serums and creams. While certain skincare components don’t mix well (think retinol and vitamin C), snail mucin is an exception. Irritation is unlikely when mixed with other components, so you can use it right away without waiting half an hour before layering on other products.
Many individuals enjoy the moisturizing properties of snail mucin, so it’s better to look for a night lotion that contains it.
Sleep is an excellent time for your skin to benefit from the hydration advantages of the substance and its other restorative and regeneration capabilities. Apply it to clean skin every evening as the last step in your skincare routine, layered over any other treatment products like toners or serums.
For those looking to use snail mucin as a multipurpose skin treatment, a snail mucin serum is the best bet. Serums have larger concentrations of mucin. Additionally, it can be applied in the morning and evening, after cleansing, but before applying any other products.
Snail Mucin’s Side Effects
Much like with any other dermatologically safe product, it’s always best to test a small bit on the inside of your forearm to check if your skin has any allergic reactions. Snail mucin hasn’t been found to have any adverse allergic reactions, but considering how unique each person’s skin is, it is always smart to be sure. If you’re already utilizing prescription-strength treatments, then consult your dermatologist before adding anything new to your regimen.
Snail Mucin Best Brands And Reviews
The global market for snail beauty products has grown due to the rising demand for natural cosmetics (snail extracts, snail mucus, snail oil, snail serum, or snail filtrate). Snails are a popular meal eaten by millions of people throughout the world and a popular source of secondary metabolites used in cosmetics and medicine. [4]
COSRX
This essence from COSRX, arguably the most popular snail mucin product, is produced with 96.3 percent snail secretion filtrate and claims to restore dryness and dullness.
Peach & Lily K-Beauty Mask
Snail mucin, hydrating hyaluronic acid, healing and calming circa, and strawberry extract, a natural source of antioxidant vitamin C and beta-hydroxy acid, are all included in this 15-minute K-beauty mask from Peach & Lily (BHA).
BENTON Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream
A combination of snail mucus, bee venom, and hyaluronic acid helps to soothe, balance, and hydrate the skin with each use. The ingredients were blended using steam to ensure their effectiveness. In addition, the cream is light enough to wear both during the day and night.
Mizon Snail Repair Cream (All-in-One)
This multipurpose cream moisturizes, brightens hyperpigmentation, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and even aids in the healing of blemishes. [3] It’s also a K-beauty favorite, so you can be sure it’s good.
The Bottomline: Snail Mucin Benefits For Skin
Snail mucin, according to studies, has the potential to hydrate skin, reduce fine wrinkles, and speed up wound healing.
If you’re considering using any new skincare products, consult your dermatologist first, especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin. They may advise you to test a small amount of the product on your arm first to see if any allergic symptoms appear.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Liu, L., Sood, A., & Steinweg, S. (2017). Snails and Skin Care-An Uncovered Combination. JAMA dermatology, 153(7), 650. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.1383
- Korean Journal of Dermatology. (2015). Use of cream containing mucus secreted by snails has an anti-aging effect on skin. Retrieved August 21, 2022, from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282744379_Use_of_cream_containing_mucus_secreted_by_snails_has_an_anti-aging_effect_on_skin
- Kim, Y., Sim, W. J., Lee, J. S., & Lim, T. G. (2022). Snail mucin is a functional food ingredient for skin. Journal of Functional Foods, 92, 105053. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2022.105053
- Laneri, S., Lorenzo, R. D., Sacchi, A., & Dini, I. (2019). Dosage of Bioactive Molecules in the Nutricosmeceutical Helix aspersa Muller Mucus and Formulation of New Cosmetic Cream with Moisturizing Effect. Natural Product Communications, 14(8), 1934578X1986860. https://doi.org/10.1177/1934578×19868606