If you've used SkinTok or K-BeautyTok recently, we're sure you've heard of snail mucin. Yes, you read that right: snail mucin, also known as snail mucus, is making a lot of noise for its many skin benefits, from hydration to boosting collagen production. But snail mucin is by no means a new skin care ingredient.
According to dermatologist Ava Shamban, the product became a commercial skin-care trend in the 1980s because snail farmers who worked day in and day out for years to get in touch with the secretions achieved extremely hydrated, supple and smooth skin. . - The appearance of the hands depending on the shape of the skin. The history of snail mucin is said to date back to Ancient Greece, where the mucus was used for its ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate signs of aging.
Then, two board-certified dermatologists will explain everything you need to know about snail mucin: what it is, how it works, its skin benefits, and how to incorporate it into your skin care routine.
What is snail mucin and where does it come from?
"Snail mucin is a natural and very potent secretion or byproduct of shellfish that is made up of proteins, peptides and proteoglycans," Dr. Shamban tells POPSUGAR. For those who want to look, it's the clean, shiny, slime-like trail that snails leave behind that protects them. “Its enzymes can act as a natural exfoliating and brightening agent. They also activate keratinocytes, helping to protect the skin from UV damage, keeping the skin adequately hydrated and enhancing its antimicrobial function,” adds Dr. Champagne.
Although there are several types of snail mucin, the most commonly used mucin in skin care comes from a specific species, Cryptomphalus aspersa. “This type has regenerative properties that promote wound healing and fibroblast proliferation, promoting elasticity and slowing aging,” says Dr. Shamban.
Benefits of snail mucin for skin
Snail mucin has many benefits when applied topically to the skin. “It can be effective when used against wrinkles, burns, stretch marks and overall skin hydration,” says board-certified dermatologist Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, APRN, FNP-C. “This is due to its ability to increase collagen production as it is rich in antioxidants.” In addition, he explains, snail mucin is thought to moisturize the skin by strengthening its water barrier. Snail mucin may also be an effective anti-aging agent, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
And if that's not enough to convince you to include it in your diet, snail mucin has antibacterial, antitumor, and healing properties. “Its anti-cancer properties may protect the skin from skin cancer, especially melanoma,” says Dr. LoGerfo, citing a 2018 study published by Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy that showed the substance may have therapeutic potential against skin cancer. “Its therapeutic properties are possible due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties,” adds the doctor. LoGerfo. "However, more research is needed to confirm these claims, and its full potential has not yet been proven.
How to use snail mucin
When scanning beauty product labels, you may see an ingredient listed as "snail secretion filter" or the initials "SSF" for short. “Some products may have minimal concentrations, while others may have high concentrations,” says the doctor. Champagne. It doesn't clog pores and its versatility means it can be used in a variety of ways, from cleanser to essence or serum, in liquid or bottle form. One of the most popular snail mucin products is CosRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. It can also be found in a liquid lotion or cream or a thicker, oily mask.
Because snail mucin is mild, it's easy to integrate into your routine and works well with active ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, AHAs, and BHAs, according to Dr. Champagne.
Both dermatologists agree that snail mucin is suitable for all skin types and is generally well tolerated without problems. However, Dr. LoGerfo says it's probably more beneficial for dry skin. If you are taking Accutane, you should discuss this with your dermatologist before trying it. Likewise, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your healthcare provider. "It is always recommended for all patients to do a patch test or consult with a board-certified dermatologist when using a new ingredient, brand, or product," says Dr. Champagne.