Snail Mucin Is The Key Skincare Ingredient To Achieve A Smooth Glass Skin
Ever wondered how it would feel to have snail mucin on your face? No? Well, you should and here’s why.
By Georgia Lam,
Unless you live under a shell like the small, slimy creatures that we side-step to avoid crushing them on the ground before going on our merry way, you would probably have heard of the mucous hype that went viral several years ago. If you are new to this, slathering the trail that snails leave behind on your face might probably seem like a bizarre concept to grasp. However, experts in the beauty industry have a very different opinion when they started concocting formulas with this unconventional ingredient.
Although introduced into the market a while back, the addition of snail mucin in skincare products is definitely here to stay due to its diverse range of natural benefits it can bring about to heal one’s skin, with promises such as soothing inflammation, moisturising and protecting against premature ageing. The slimy goodness is also often harvested ethically without causing harm to the little critters. Although depending on the brand and its breeders, these nocturnal creatures are typically left alone in a dark room and are placed above a thin mesh where their mucin is then collected below.
Whether you are a novice or a skincare connoisseur, this slippery mucilage bears a gift for all. Keep reading to find out what are some of the snail-infused items you should add to cart now.
Tip: Like any new addition to your skincare routine, always conduct a patch test before application of the product. Snail mucin typically works best on damp skin for better absorption and penetration of the formula.
Arguably the most popular snail mucin product of all time, Cosrx is an international hot favourite amongst many including K-beauty fans, as well as western celebrities such as Emily Ratajkowski who mentioned how this wondrous slime saved her skin during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. This powerful essence has over 96 per cent of snail secretion filtrate, and prides itself in helping with hydrating the skin while delivering anti-ageing benefits that can smoothen and brighten hyperpigmentation as well as dull, flaky skin. The stringy and slightly stretchy texture might require some getting used to for first-timers, but the benefits one can reap are definitely worth it.
If the above has yet to convince you, maybe this one will change your mind. Another stellar snail mucin integrated product from Cosrx, this All In One Cream promotes radiancy and replenishes hydration levels with its hypoallergenic formula. The lightweight formula packs a punch in terms of moisturising and nourishing power for longer periods of time, as well as promising to plump up the skin while reducing dullness, redness, inflammation, fine lines and other signs of ageing. It also combats dehydrated skin and it’s safe to say this looks very much like your new moisturiser.
Peach Slices Snail Rescue Intensive Wash-Off Mask, USD$16.99 (S$22), www.peachandlily.com
Peach Slices is a subsidiary brand under the American brand Peach & Lily. It takes inspiration from K-beauty to produce clean, non-toxic skincare formulae that are more accessible to its customers at home. A certain Snail Rescue Intensive Wash-Off Mask, however, has caught the eye of many due to its interesting jelly-like texture. Unlike the usual runny consistency, this hydrating mask applies on thickly despite containing a whopping 95 per cent of snail mucin. It is also packed with goodies such as birch juice, hyaluronic acid, cica, strawberry extract, and liquorice that target redness, acne, inflammation, as well as dark spots, giving rise to a brighter, more even complexion with reduced appearance of large pores after the wash off. This mask is also a mega plus for sensitive skin types and fungal-acne-prone skin due to its high anti-bacterial properties.
Beauty of Joseon’s Revive Serum has quickly risen in popularity, especially among individuals with mature skin. If the ‘snaily’ texture of the mucus is a deal breaker for you, this formula is considerably more lightweight than the others. It contains 63 per cent Korean ginseng – a wonder ingredient that helps combat wrinkles and hyperpigmentation while boosting hydration levels – and three per cent snail mucin. The combination of snail mucin with ginseng along with more beneficial ingredients such as liquorice helps level up this serum into a multi-tasking one that reduces scarring, increases skin elasticity, prevents fine lines, and even aids with eczema – all while giving rise to that smooth, glass-like look.
The Royal Black Snail Cream features a mild but effective formula that is safe to use even on sensitive skin. Its luxurious texture includes an array of skincare treats your complexion will thank you for, such as 20 per cent black snail mucin, black bee honey extract, and royal jelly protein. These goodies revitalise and deeply nourish the skin by fortifying the skin barrier and adding a (tremendous) touch of firmness and skin elasticity.
If you wish for a home spa session after a long day out or if your skin is craving some intense nourishment and hydration, the Royal Black Snail Cream Sheet Mask is a great solution. Soaked in nail mucin and black bee honey extract, the sheet mask hugs the face snugly and aids in rejuvenating tired skin.
This cream contains snail mucin and bee venom which are harvested via cruelty-free methods that bring about zero harm to the animals. The mucus secreted by the snail helps with healing wounds and protection of the skin whereas bee venom helps to stimulate collagen production and aids in reducing inflammation
This article first appeared in Her World