Snail Mucin:  The Benefits for Skincare

Most of us have had concerns regarding our skin health at one time or another, and if you’ve been attentive to the world of skin care, you might have seen a newer, slightly icky ingredient that’s becoming a favourite defence: snail mucin. It wasn’t always so popular, as only the audacious skin-care enthusiasts in East Asia sought after it, but snail mucin is now a popular choice in high-performance skin products found around the world today.

But what the heck is snail mucin? How did it become such a skin care sensation, and what can it do for your skin?

What Is Snail Mucin?

Snail mucin, or ‘snail secretion filtrate’, is the thick, jelly-like matter naturally produced by snails. In nature, this substance helps protect their delicate bodies from rough surfaces and other things in the environment that could be hazardous to them. This mucin also aids in the healing of injuries that occur as snails traverse their terrain. In the skincare world, this is the magic “pill” people are looking for to heal and protect the skin

Although used for centuries, as far back as the Ancient Greeks who reportedly used crushed snails as a remedy for inflamed skin, it wasn’t until more recently that snail mucin was studied by scientists and has now found its way into mainstream beauty routines.

Is the collection of snail mucin cruelty-free?

This is a common question regarding how snail mucin is collected. Ethical extractions of snail mucin are a key concern for many consumers, and ethical brands ensure that the harvesting of snail mucin is not harmful to snails. A popular method is by allowing snails to move across a mesh net while in a dark, humid environment that mimics their natural habitat. The mucin is then collected, filtered and purified then combined into various skincare products.COSRX is one of these ethical companies that uses this process.

Anecdotal Claims

Everyone wants that “magic pill” to achieve their skin care needs, but is snail mucin that “pill”? According to the Mayo Clinic, studies using 25 people who had moderate sun damage used snail mucin products for 14 weeks. 

Participants noticed significant improvements in fine lines and crow’s feet when compared to those in a placebo group that used products without snail mucin, where no change was seen in overall skin damage severity. Snail mucin seems to be safe for most people, and study participants did not report any negative reactions.

Snail mucin could also help protect against melanoma, which is a dangerous type of skin cancer. During another study, it helped decrease the spread and growth of melanoma in skin cells in the lab, encouraging more in-depth studies.

Online Talk

It only takes a quick search on social media to find some very positive feedback regarding the benefits of snail mucin. It doesn’t seem to be just a fad because people seem quite happy with their results after using snail mucin products.

The Benefits of Snail Mucin in Skin Care

Why has snail mucin become so popular? Most likely because of its complex and nutrient-rich composition. Snail mucin is dense with:

• Hyaluronic acid: This is a powerful humectant that pulls moisture into the skin, which in turn hydrates and plumps the skin.

• Glycoproteins: An important element that helps maintain the skin’s structure and resilience.

• Proteoglycans: These help in repairing and regenerating skin cells.

• Copper peptides, zinc, and more trace minerals: These contribute to overall healing of the skin and help in collagen production.

• Antimicrobial peptides: These are additional elements that help protect the skin from pathogens. They also help in reducing inflammation.

These naturally occurring substances are what make snail mucin a genuinely powerful ally for skin health and offer many benefits, ranging from hydration to healing.

What are the Benefits of Snail Mucin in Skincare?

What can snail mucin do for your skin?

Intense Hydration

Snail mucin pulls moisture into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. It’s great for all skin types, including oily and combination skin.

Skin Repair/Regeneration

Glycoproteins and proteoglycans in snail mucin support the skin’s natural repair processes. Reports show faster healing of minor cuts, acne scarring and blemishes.

Soothes Inflammation

Antimicrobial peptides and zinc help calm inflamed skin, making snail mucin suitable for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Anti-Aging Properties

Thanks to collagen and other elastin-boosting ingredients, snail mucin can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This promotes firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Even Skin Tone

Regular use of snail mucin can help reduce hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and other marks for more radiant complexions.

How To Incorporate Snail Mucin into Your Routine

Snail mucin has many applications and can be applied in numerous ways. Here’s one example:

• Step 1: Cleanser (gentle, non-stripping)

• Step 2: Toner (hydrating, alcohol-free)

• Step 3: Snail mucin essence or serum (apply evenly, let absorb)

• Step 4: Moisturizer (lock in all the goodness)

• Step 5: Sunscreen (AM routine)

Many users notice improvements in skin hydration and texture within a few weeks of regular use.

Who Can Use Snail Mucin?

Snail mucin is generally safe for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It doesn’t clog pores, it's soothing and is suitable for those dealing with irritation, redness or breakouts.

As with any skincare product, it’s wise to perform a patch test before incorporating any products into your routine, especially if you have allergies to mollusks or shellfish.

Should You Try Snail Mucin?

Snail mucin is gaining in popularity. Its unique composition can hydrate, heal and provide anti-aging benefits. It’s a gentle, effective way to enhance your skin’s health and radiance. As always, pay attention to your skin for sensitivities. Choose products from brands that align with your ethical values.

Here are a few of the many examples from the COSRX “Advanced Snail” line available at your local and online Healthy Planet store.