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 mucin hype that went viral several years ago. If you are new to this, slathering the trail that snails leave behind on your face might seem like a bizarre concept to grasp. However, experts in the beauty industry had 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. The exact technique depends on the brand and its breeders, though usually these nocturnal creatures are 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 discover some of the snail-infused items you should add to your cart now.
Tip: Like any new addition to your skincare routine, always conduct a patch test before the 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 Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is an international hot favourite amongst many including K-beauty fans, as well as 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% of snail secretion filtrate, and prides itself on hydrating the skin while delivering anti-ageing benefits that can brighten hyperpigmentation as well as improve dull, flaky skin. The stringy and slightly stretchy texture might require some getting used to, especially for first-timers, but the benefits one can reap are definitely worth it; plus, it gets absorbed by the skin fast, too!
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. This 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!
Although all the way from America, Peach Slices, a subsidiary brand under Peach & Lily, takes inspiration from K-beauty and incorporates them into their skincare line to produce a clean, non-toxic formula to become more accessible to the locals. 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 thickly, despite snail mucin making up a whopping 95% of the product. It is also packed with goodies such as birch juice, hyaluronic acid, cica, strawberry extract, and licorice that targets 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.
Much like the cult favourite sunscreen, Beauty of Joseon’s Revive Serum has also quickly risen in popularity, especially amongst individuals with mature skin. If the texture of the mucin is a deal breaker for you, this formula is considerably more lightweight than the others. It contains 63% of the ultimate miracle worker in skincare, Korean ginseng, as well as 3% snail mucin. Ginseng is also a super ingredient that helps combat wrinkles and hyperpigmentation while boosting hydration levels. The combination of snail mucin with ginseng along with more beneficial ingredients such as licorice therefore helps level up this serum into a multi-tasking one that reduces scarring, increases skin elasticity, prevents fine lines, and even aids with eczema, giving rise to that smooth, glass-like look.
Having won third place for Best Anti-Ageing Product under Olive Young in 2020, 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% 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 firmness and skin elasticity, which will lend you a youthful glow.
If you wish for a home spa experience 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 alternative. Soaked in a stretchy, comfortable sheet that hugs the face snugly, it aids in rejuvenating tired skin and ensures increased absorption of all the benefits it can yield from the snail mucin and black bee honey extract. This sheet mask is especially useful for locking in moisture and it helps with a more even application of product, which otherwise would be more difficult to achieve with application from a tub.
Although formulated with snail mucin and bee venom, the brand is cruelty-free and harvests these ingredients via ethical methods that bring about zero harm to the animals. It is not every day that we will come across such a combination, but the Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream by Benton has perfected this formula and is currently sold out at many retail chains. The mucin helps with wound healing and protection of the skin, whereas bee venom helps stimulate collagen production and aids in reducing inflammation. They work together in synergy for extensive wrinkle care and anti-ageing results, as well as promising a brightening effect. The innovative steaming technology that produces this soft, creamy texture involves mixing the ingredients together using high temperatures and pressure, which ultimately translates to better absorption into the skin.
- TAGS:
- hydrating skincare
- skincare
- Snail