If you’ve been on TikTok lately and its algorithms are similar to mine, you may have seen beauty videos about snail mucin. Slimy mucus seems like the biggest skincare trend right now, but you might be surprised to learn that using snail secretions in beauty products isn’t a new phenomenon. Snail mucus has been used in K-Beauty for decades for its rejuvenating effects. However, more products than ever before contain ingredients that boost collagen.
To get the whole scoop on snails, we met with dermatologist Nazanin Saedi, M.D., FAA, and Santiago Lalaine, CEO of Caracol Natural Skincare, Inc., whose products are made from snail secretions. We spoke with Mr. Allendez. Sadie says there’s no doubt that more research is needed, but snail mucus does have amazing benefits for your skin. “In fact, snails have been used for hydration and healing for centuries,” she says.
Dr. Asedi and Dr. Larain Allendez discuss why you should add this slimy ingredient to your daily routine.
What is snail mucin?
If you’ve ever encountered a snail, chances are you know exactly what snail mucin is. “Snail mucin is a slimy substance that snails release to protect themselves when they are stressed,” says Dr. Saedi, and of what it feels like, Larrain Allendez said it described as “a viscous liquid useful for skin care,” and the snail added that mucin contains allantoin, collagen, elastin, proteins, peptides, antioxidant enzymes, polyphenols, glycolic acid, vitamins, sugars, lactic acid, and many others. is rich in important skin care ingredients.
Do snail mucins harm snails?
No, this process does not harm or kill the snails. Of the extraction process, Larain Allendez said, “Today’s animal testing methods allow the snails to continue to thrive after harvest.” Although extraction methods vary, according to the research and development team of the K-Beauty brand COSRX, “The snail is placed on a mesh net in a dark and quiet room. After about an hour, the snails are returned to their homes, during which time the mucin is collected and processed for use.” After safe return to normal environment, the stranded mucin is collected. Use for products from the net.
Larrain Agendez, from his own experience collecting snail mucin, says that snails actually “love the food used to prepare the extract. It hardens the shell and improves the healing mechanism.” Added.
What does snail mucin do to the skin?
Snail mucin is made up of so many beneficial ingredients that there are so many things it can do to your skin. “Small studies have shown that it can help moisturize dry skin, strengthen the skin barrier, stimulate collagen production to improve the appearance of aging skin, and even aid in wound healing. says Dr. Saedi.
Larrain Allendez calls snail secretions “food for the skin” because they help rejuvenate the skin. He mentions the types of snail products on the market and their benefits such as regenerating, hydrating, preventing TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and reducing redness. “Snail mucin has protective properties and also contains ingredients that help repair and moisturize the skin,” he added.
Who should use snail mucin on their skin?
“Suitable for all skin types,” says Larrain Allendez. “Like any natural product, very few people are allergic.” If you have had a bad experience with skincare in the past or have a history of allergies in general, patch test first on your forearm before applying to your face. is recommended. It can be used on all skin types, but always use with caution as some products may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin.
What is the best way to use snail mucin on the skin?
Look for serums and moisturizers to “hydrate and repair your skin while you sleep,” says Dr. Saidi. She recommends Biopelle Tensage Intensive Serum 40, which “has growth factor benefits that help repair, protect and moisturize the skin.” Results include improved skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles, and reduced signs of photo-induced damage. She says the best time to incorporate snail mucus into your routine is “after a cosmetic laser treatment, as it helps moisturize the skin and promote wound healing.”
https://www.glamour.com/story/what-is-snail-mucin
