What is Snail Mucin and Does It Really Work on Skin? [Research]

01 Oct What is Snail Mucin and Does It Really Work on Skin? [Research]

All hail the trendiest skincare ingredient, THE SNAIL MUCIN!

It might sound icky to some but snail mucin is one of the most popular ingredients in Korean beauty.

Korean women use at least one product with snail mucin. 

And because of its versatility in treating many skin concerns, people around the world have quickly come to terms to use it.

So, to find out about the hype, we did our research. 

Read on to find out how does snail mucin work and how it has been making its way slowly and steadily into the daily skincare routine segment. 

What is Snail Mucin?

The skincare industry never fails to astound us with new ingredients and innovative concoctions.

And while some of them are ordinarily known and accepted, others are, well, a bit weird and intriguing, to say the least.

One such latest ingredient is snail mucin.

Snail mucin, often referred to as snail slime, is an excretion from snails. 

And this is why it appears on the ingredients list as Snail Secretion Filtrate.

Slime is naturally created by snails and used by them as a way to protect themselves.

Yes, you guessed it right!

These are not those glittery trails of snail slime that you may remember from your childhood. 

These snail slimes are excreted during the time of stress and are not what is excreted during their usual movement.

Moreover, while we can’t acknowledge Korean beauty enough for bringing this extraordinary ingredient stateside, snail mucin for skincare was first known among Chileans.

Now, this introduction, of course, created waves throughout the industry and soon other manufacturers got involved in concocting their own formulas.

But do you know how they harvest snail mucin? 

Well, if you are like men, you must be imagining gardeners hunting snails and squeezing the mucin out from them. 

But the reality is a bit more scientific! 

How is Snail Mucin Harvested? Are Snails Killed for Mucin?

As it comes from little slimy creatures, snail mucin is clearly not vegan. 

In general, the extraction method varies from product to product. 

And while in the past it was impossible to extract mucin without killing the snails, today, there are other methods to extract mucin without killing the snails. 

So, is snail mucin cruelty-free?

Well, if you’re an animal lover and feeling a bit worried about your little slimy friends, relax.

There are snail breeders in Italy that use “cruelty-free” techniques to extract the mucin.

Moreover, there are other manufacturers in the Korean beauty care industry who emphasize that their extraction methods do not harm snails and are humane. If in doubt, I think it’s best you contact the manufacturer directly and enquire about their methods.

Any transparent company would be happy to give you a little purview without revealing confidential details.

With that said, you might wonder what’s in this snail slime that makes it the most contemporary skincare ingredient in the US?

TBH, snail mucin is a boon for your skin. It’s charged with some of the most loved skincare moisturizers.

But hype apart, does snail mucin really work?

Does Snail Mucin Really Work?

Snail mucin is extra moisturizing and also offers anti-aging properties. 

And considering the properties it contains, it’s indeed good for any skin type in general. 

However, its moisturizing properties make it excellent for those with dry skin.

What is in Snail Slime?

Snail mucin is jam-packed with nutrients such as:

• Hyaluronic Acid: It hydrates the skin and supports the anti-aging process.

• Copper Peptides: Copper peptides stimulate collagen production and also aid in diminishing the appearance of dark marks, acne scars, and UV induces spots.

• Glycolic Acid: It works wonders for hyperpigmentation. With regular use, it can bring out more even-toned and baby-like skin. It’s a game-changer and works like magic.

• Collagen and Elastin: Collagen works to keep the skin firm, restores the skin density, and aids fine lines and wrinkles. Whereas, elastin provides your skin with elasticity and keeps it in shape. 

And this forms the prominent reason why these slow, slimy creatures have not only debuted but are also currently ruling the skincare industry.

Not to mention, snail mucin is a mega multi-tasker for the following reasons:

• It seals in the moisture and penetrates all the active ingredients well within the skin.

• Acts as a hydrating agent and gives the skin a dewy look.

• Enhances wound healing.

• Improves skin texture and quality.

• Repairs the signs of aging.

And these claims and conclusions aren’t baseless. There are clinical studies and scientific research to back it up.

Snail Mucin Research

Snail slime has a history in skincare and treatment of ailments. 

And, as you can probably guess by now, its staggering effect on the human skin has long made it the holy grail of anti-aging.

So, I dig a little deeper to see what the research has to say about this oh-so-popular skincare masterstroke. 

#1. HelixComplex snail mucus exhibits pro-survival, pro-migration, and proliferative effects on fibroblasts of mammals.

The snail mucus of Helix aspersa muller has a complex composition. 

Since ancient times, its biological properties have been widely utilized to treat human disorders, particularly on the skin. 

In this study, a detailed description of the molecular composition of Helix aspersa muller mucus HelixComplex is provided. 

Notably, the experiments were made on both humans and murine fibroblasts. 

And the results suggested that HelixComplex promotes cell migration and wound healing both directly and indirectly. 

#2. Using a cream containing snail’s mucus has anti-aging effects.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using creams comprising snail slime to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, restore dermal density, and lift the skin. 

This research took place by applying a cream containing mucus on the lateral epicanthal areas and the left cheek of 10 subjects for 4 weeks twice a day. 

As a result, a meaningful difference was witnessed between the baseline and 4 weeks after applying the cream. 

Finally, it was reasoned that using the creams containing snail mucus seems to be effective for skin anti-aging.

#3. The efficacy of Helix aspersa Müller extract in the healing of partial-thickness burns.

Because of its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, snail mucus has been widely used in numerous dermatological conditions. 

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Helix aspersa extract in an open wound management protocol for deep partial-thickness facial burns and compare it to Moisture Exposure Burn Ointment (MEBO).

There were 2 groups in the study. 

Group A had a total of 27 adults with deep partial-thickness facial burns and was treated with snail mucus cream for 14 days. 

Another group, i.e., Group B had 16 patients who were getting treated with MEBO.

And it was reasoned that Helix aspersa extract is a natural, effective, and safe remedy for exposed wound management of partial-thickness burns in adults.

There has been much research to understand the properties of snails from the time of Hippocrates. Interest in snails did not stop at the end of the 19th century, though.

And recently the FDA has also shown an interest in snails. 

Now, after going through this much research, it’s time to know more about the snail mucin before and after transformation.

How Does Snail Mucin Work on Skin?

Now that you know what snail mucin is and what nutrients are in it, let’s talk about how it works on your skin.

1. Thanks to hyaluronic acid, snail mucin has moisturizing properties that help lock in the moisture and support the skin barrier.
2. Collagen production helps diminish fine lines and wrinkles and also gives your complexion a natural and youthful glow.
3. It has antibacterial properties that make it great for warding off acne. 
4. Snail mucin also mitigates irritation and stimulates the regeneration of cells. 

And while you use it, some may notice immediate effects while others may take some time.

So, if you are wondering how long does snail mucin take to work, it completely depends on the way and the purpose you are using it for. 

Notably, snail mucin works relatively quickly while addressing issues like dry skin, skin inflammation, fine lines, and wrinkles. 

It works exceptionally quickly for some, and you might even witness results in a few minutes; however, for a new look and better feel, you need to continue using it.

Adding to this, it might take a bit longer when used for treating and preventing acne and acne scars.

While you might notice results just days after using it, with its extended use, you’ll get clearer skin and fewer breakouts.

By now, I am sure you must have felt intrigued by the effects of snail mucin. 

Thus, this calls for me to list down some of the prominent benefits of snail mucin on the skin. 

Top 10 Snail Mucin Skin Benefits

Snail mucin has multi-tasking abilities, and these instant snail mucin benefits will make you believe that it’s more than a beauty trend. To be precise, snail mucin:

1. Prevents acne
2. Works for stretch marks 
3. Has powerful anti-aging benefits
4. Hydrates skin
5. Exfoliates dead skin cells
6. Protects and boosts skin healing
7. Encourages collagen production in the skin
8. Works as an anti-irritant and soothes the skin
9. Enriched with vitamins and minerals to promote anti-inflammation and skin healing
10. Promotes a professional facial like look

Yes folks, these are the properties that have made snail mucin the absolute skincare staple.

And unless you are allergic to it, snail mucin can moisturize, heal, and regenerate the skin. Here’s how…

#1. Acts on Acne

Acne breakouts are depressing, and if you’re dealing with the same, snail mucin is one of the best treatments to prevent and treat acne because of its antimicrobial properties. 

It helps keep the acne-causing bacteria at bay.

In addition to this, the glycolic acid unclogs the pores, exfoliates, and removes the damaged skin.

#2. Fades Scarring and Stretch Marks

The fibrinolysis and glycolic acid boosts tissue repair and encourages rapid cell renewal.

While fibrinolysis helps with the cellular development of the skin, glycolic acid takes care of the scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. 

Moreover, snail slime can soften the existing scars and can even treat post-surgery scarring. It contains very little to no oil and takes 2-4 weeks to show results. 

It already seems like a magic ingredient to me. 

#3. Has Anti-Aging Properties

The anti-aging properties of snail mucin are backed by clinical studies!

The credit of the anti-aging properties of snail mucin will again go to hyaluronic acid which works to keep your skin hydrated and plump. 

To elaborate, hyaluronic acid increases collagen and elastin production on the outer layers of skin and makes the skin look plumper.

So, now you know why you weren’t able to guess the age of Korean people. 

#4. Keeps Skin Hydrated

Snail mucin contains a moisturizing agent (hyaluronic acid) that attracts water to the outer skin and keeps it hydrated. 

Not to mention, snail slime contains 98% water, which is a boon for dry skin.

#5. Exfoliates

One of the major snail mucin skin benefits is that it removes dead skin cells and stimulates cell regrowth; hence, it’s an excellent exfoliant. 

Adding to this, it evens your skin tone and even reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

#6. Protects the Skin

Snail mucin skin benefits are innumerable. It contains vital nutrients that help nourish, smoothen, and moisturize your skin. 

The allantoin present in SSF (Snail Secretion Filtrate) regenerates skin healing, works as an anti-irritation agent, and improves skin texture. 

#7. Boosts Collagen Production

Snail mucin contains ingredients that help protect from and repair injury. 

Not to mention, it has growth factors that trigger the growth of new cells and collagen. 

#8. Soothes Irritation

Allantoin is a key component in snail mucin with healing properties. Not only it calms the irritation but also soothes the skin. 

#9. Delivers Vital Vitamins and Minerals

Apart from allantoin and hyaluronic acid, snail mucin also contains other good-for-skin ingredients, which include zinc with anti-inflammatory properties and manganese with healing properties.

It contains copper peptides as well as vitamins A and E. 

#10. Gives Professional Facial Effect

Snail mucin has blown away the beauty world with its infinite benefits.

The best part?

It promotes skin anti-aging and offers a professional-like facelift look. 

As a result, derma clinics, plastic surgeons, and spas are coming up with their own version of snail facial, treatments, and creams. 

The social media platforms are filled with influencers and beauty enthusiasts swearing by the amazing effects of snail mucin. 

I don’t know about you, but I’m for sure utterly blown away by its benefits.

And now that you know how does snail mucin work, the next important thing to discuss is how to use snail mucin to reap all of its benefits. 

How to Use Snail Mucin?

Wondering how to apply snail mucin? Fret not! The skincare industry is done with the hard part already.

You have the ever-so-popular snail mucin serum and creams that are available in a wide variety and make the application hassle-free.

However, its use totally depends on your skin issues and what kind of results you are expecting from the product. 

Still, many individuals use it for moisturizing purposes and hydration.

As for skin regeneration and restoration, the best time to use snail mucin is bedtime. 

Make it the last step of your evening skincare routine and apply it in circular motions after cleansing the area.

Furthermore, you can use snail mucin serum as an anti-ager.

Use it at night immediately after washing your face and before wearing make-up in the morning. 

Undoubtedly, many people are in love with this revolutionary and trending beauty secret; all thanks to Korean skincare. 

So, if you have not used it already, I advise you to add snail mucin to your skincare regime if you’ve been intrigued with the beauty trend lately. 

In a Nutshell

In today’s time, having a skincare routine is more than important to maintain healthy skin. 

Fortunately, there are a million ways to add snail mucin to your beauty regime.

You can take a cue from our skin-conscious neighbors in South Korea. 

While it doesn’t mean you have to follow their 10 steps Korean skincare regime, you can easily gel it up with any of your skincare routines and reap the maximum benefits.

Not only does snail mucin work to give you an even skin tone and younger-looking skin, but it also eases other skin concerns and speeds up the healing process.

And considering the skincare industry’s obsession with snail mucin, I can tell you that it is not a passing trend and is here to stay.

So, whether it has crash-landed on you or not, it’s time to welcome it to your skincare regime with open arms! 

FAQs

Here’s a collection of questions most asked by readers interested in using snail slime. 

Well, then it’s settled now. 

These slimy creatures are indeed making our skin better and glowy. So, the next time you’re applying your snail mucin serum, don’t forget to thank our little friends.

Have more questions? Drop them down below and I’ll get back to you!