Who knew we would be applying snail excretion on our faces one day? Is just reading this giving you the ick? Trust us, don’t turn away, and read on!
We legitimately questioned the authenticity of using snail mucin and probably, like many of you, thought of it as some viral skin care ingredient but looks like it has literally slid its way into the top skincare ingredients. No, it’s not gross, TBH you wouldn’t even know it’s snail excretion if no one told you.
Snail excretion on your face? Don’t cringe, it’s fragrance free and feels like any other serum you might have used on your skin to keep it hydrated. Plus, reportedly, no snails have been harmed in its production and … it’s all natural and dermatologist approved!
Korean beauty predominantly focuses on natural, rare, and forward-thinking approaches combining nature’s age-old techniques and ingredients that have made their way to other parts of the world, even Pakistan.
Where Does Snail Mucin Come From?
It’s the snail excretion that acts as adhesion and protection for the snail which is then collected when the snails are left alone to freely roam around the net. According to experts, beauty products such as snail mucin technically contain snail secretion filtrate that is lab processed and subsequently sanitized, to give us a version of snail mucus that can then be added to beauty products and cosmetics.
Breaking Down The Formula
Founder of popular K-beauty retailer Soko Glam, Charlotte Cho broke down the well–known skincare elements, “Snail mucin possesses well-known skincare elements and benefits such as elastin, proteins, copper peptides, hyaluronic and glycolic acid, plus it also has anti-microbial properties to ward off bacteria”
Essence Of The Essence
Cosrx’s snail mucin essence is a type of product that must be used after a toner and before thicker formulations like serums, moisturizers, and oils. Gently pat it on the skin and let it absorb, then go ahead with the rest of your skincare. The snail mucin is available in several other formulas such as serums and creams.
There are several famous K-Beauty brands that have snail mucin-related products such as Mizon, Missha, TONYMOLY, and CosRX. You can find some options on Korean beauty websites in Pakistan.
What’s Your Skin Type?
Generally, snail mucin can be used on all skin types however it may be more beneficial for those with dry skin and is well tolerated by most unless you’re allergic to the product. Many dermatologists agree snail mucin is generally safe and gentle however it is advisable to do a patch test on a small area of your hand or forearm. Further, consult your dermatologist if you have certain skin conditions.
In terms of your skincare, you can combine it with anti-oxidants, retinol, and other actives like Vitamin C, Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid, and moisturizing ingredients.
Snail Mucin might be a great way to hydrate your skin at night. Apply after your cleanser and toner and before your moisturizer, to seal in moisture all night long.
The Glorious Benefits
Snail Mucin is said to moisturize the skin, has a part to play in collagen production, and aids in skin healing and regeneration, the glycolic acid which is from a league of chemical exfoliants speeds skin-cell turnover improves the appearance of fine lines and the copper peptides treat hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne scars. It is also said that snail mucin contains anti-microbial peptides killing germs and microbes, speeding up the healing of wounds.
Although the product might be a little pricey, (aren’t all good things?)a little goes a long way, you only need a pea sized amount for one application and it has a shelf life of 24 months.
Shop Snail Mucin Here
Word Of Caution
Generally, snail mucin can be used on all skin types however it may be more beneficial for those with dry skin and is well tolerated by most unless you’re allergic to the product. Many dermatologists agree snail mucin is generally safe and gentle however it is advisable to do a patch test on a small area of your hand or forearm. Further, consult your dermatologist if you have certain skin conditions or are sensitive
As long as we have clear skin we are willing to try all viral beauty products and share our experience with all of you even if that means slathering snail slime all over our faces. So stay tuned as we bring you the latest in skincare, together we can, make it a happier skin world!
Sources: Byrdie, The Skin Experiment
