Skincare is one of the biggest industries worldwide. In recent years, the demand in skincare has prompted the introduction of many new products and ingredients. Even I, as a Beauty Blogger for more than 12 years got intrigued with the unique ingredients from different brands.
What Is Snail Mucin?
As the name implies, snail mucin is the excretion of snails. Depending on the brand, some will label it as snail slime, snail extract, or snail secretion filtrate. Regardless of the name, it’s composed of hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and glycoproteins which are hydrating, anti-aging, and healing. While it’s not vegan, many South Korean brands are cruelty-free and harvest the mucin humanely.
One of the benefits of Snail Mucin is how they can even out the skin tone.
Many snail serum products are made specifically to correct the skin tone. Indeed, Pretty Me’s review of Snail White Soap highlights how the facial cleansing product is aimed at people with uneven skin tone. Aside from the plant extracts, snail potion is one of its main ingredients, and the concentrate is said to brighten the skin and make it more even throughout. While the product is marketed for the face, it can also be used on the body. In fact, it’s hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties can help eliminate redness, eczema, and hyperpigmentation. So who among you also apply face creams on your body? (I’d love to know!)
Secondly, Snail Mucin can also boost skin elasticity.
There is a lot of debate around whether eye creams are necessary or not, but as long as the result speaks for itself, there's no reason you can't do it. In another review made here on AskWhatsNew.com on Esfolio Nutri-Snail Eye Cream, it's pointed out the product helps keep wrinkles at bay—and snail mucin in eye cream helps to do this. Thanks to the mixture of snail filtrate and aloe extracts, any dullness or fine lines are minimized. Despite its rich formulation, the texture is lightweight making it perfect even on hot days.
Thirdly, Strengthening of Skin Barrier! One of my favorite benefits.
Over the years, skin naturally slows its collagen and oil production. This causes skin to look less bouncy and make it vulnerable to damage. But now think of snails. Despite their surroundings, their soft bodies are hydrated and protected from cuts thanks to their mucus. By applying snail mucin on our own skin, it’s almost like applying a silky layer of armor. This is mainly thanks to the mucus’ moisturizing components that lock out environmental irritants while locking in moisture.
As always, you can enjoy the benefits of snail mucin yourself if applied correctly. To do this, apply a small amount of the product on the inside of your wrist. If there are no side effects after 24 hours, you’re good to go! Depending on your product, you may be better off using it in the evening so your skin can really make the most of the moisture. If you’re also using retinoids at night, the active retinol ingredients work better with snail mucin as featured on Everyday Health.
Though K-Beauty brought snail mucin to the mainstream market, snails have been used for wellness in Ancient Greece and Chile for generations.
Today, many products use this magic ingredient for a variety of specific needs. Aside from the examples above, there are plenty of other options that are very affordable, but still effective. Remember that skincare is a fun type of investment. Aside from pampering yourself, it’s a regimen that your future self will thank you for. Who knows? Snail mucin may just be that holy grail your skincare routine needs.
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!
