Several skincare companies are marketing snail mucin to treat inflammation and reduce signs of aging. But is snail mucus worth the hype?
We all want healthy and clear skin — even if it calls for slathering slimy snail mucus all over our face. You heard us right! The latest and most sought-after skincare ingredient is snail mucus — which the little creatures leave behind as a trail while crawling by.
Technically, it is known as snail mucin, and the ingredient is quite popular in South Korea but has gradually made its impact as a trending skincare ingredient in other parts of the world. Keep scrolling to learn more about this dermatologist-approved ingredient and its benefits.
In chemical terms, snail mucin or mucus is a compound constituting enzymes, proteins, hyaluronic acid, antimicrobial peptides, copper peptides, iron, proteoglycans, and zinc.
Skincare products rich in snail mucin may benefit those with dry skin. Its hydrating characteristics help strengthen the barrier of the skin and lock in moisture. The hyaluronic acid in snail mucin helps hydrate the skin immediately. As revealed by a study in Dermatology and Therapy, published in June 2021, suggests that the application of hyaluronic acid serum can increase the hydration of the skin by 134 percent almost instantly — improving smoothness and plumpness — and reducing wrinkles and fine lines.
Snail mucin contains collagen — and may help slow down some signs of aging, improving your skin health. Products containing snail mucin are ideal for people who want youthful-looking skin. Another research revealed that applying a serum with 40 percent snail slime for 12 weeks diminishes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
The component responsible for this mechanism may be glycolic acid —which is present in snail mucin. The glycolic acid promotes the formation of collagen, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and adds a stunning radiance to the skin.
Snail mucin has another useful component—allantoin. This key ingredient is known for its healing properties that soothe irritation, make skin smoother — and aid cell regeneration.
Snail mucin is chock-full of healthy nutrients that are excellent for the skin, such as healing manganese and anti-inflammatory zinc. It is also loaded with copper peptides and lauded for its wrinkle-diminishing and collagen-increasing effect. Snail slime is also rich in vitamins A and E (incredible antioxidants).
If you want the largest dose of this fantastic skincare ingredient, opt for a serum infused with snail mucin. This multi-purpose ingredient will serve as an anti-ager in your serum and help you achieve younger-looking skin.
An essence is a water-based, thin product that hydrates the skin. If you are fresher in the skincare game—you may start with a snail mucin-infused essence for your face.
Snail slime is not an uncommon ingredient in creams and moisturizers. If fine lines and wrinkles are bothering you, get a snail mucin-infused anti-ageing cream and slather it. Remember, the thicker the application, the better will be the results. A thick snail mucin-infused cream will keep your skin nourished and radiant.
This magical skincare ingredient might also help fight acne. A lab study revealed promising results suggesting snail mucus can prevent acne and breakouts. However, more research needs to be conducted, to reap greater benefits of this brilliant skincare ingredient.
