Are you wondering if you should add snail mucin to your skincare routine? Here’s everything you need to know about this trending skincare ingredient.
Skincare is perhaps the last thing that comes to mind when you think of snails. But snail mucin, also known as snail secretion filtrate, is one of the most widely trending ingredients in the skincare world. Snail slime is touted as the solution to multiple skincare problems, including acne-prone skin and pigmentation concerns. But can these slimy slow-moving, slimy creatures actually help you look young and hydrated? Here’s everything you need to know about snail mucin.
What is snail mucin?
Snails secrete snail mucin, a slimy, gel-like substance that helps to repair wounds and protect the snails’ skin. It contains many skin-friendly ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and peptides, which can work to moisturise and nourish the skin. Snail mucin can be found in skin care products like:
- Face creams
- Moisturisers
- Gel masks
- Skin repair serums
But how is snail mucin extracted? To harvest snail mucin, snails are placed in a controlled environment where they are free to move around and create their slime. After that, the slime is gathered and filtered to get rid of any impurities. The filtrate made from the ensuing snail secretion is subsequently used in cosmetics.
What are the benefits of snail mucin?
From boosting hydration and minimising the appearance of signs of ageing to stimulating collagen production, snail mucin has an array of skin benefits. Here’s how adding this slimy ingredient can boost your skin health:
- Moisturises the skin
Snail mucin has hydrating components like hyaluronic acid that help to restore the skin’s natural barrier function. Additionally, as a humectant, snail mucin can draw moisture into the skin and keep it moisturised.
- Tackles signs of ageing
The glycolic acid found in snail mucin can help exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and fine lines. Furthermore, it has peptides, which can increase skin elasticity and promote the production of collagen.
- Soothes your skin
If you have irritated, sensitive skin, snail mucin can work wonders. Allantoin, a substance found in snail mucin, has calming effects that can soothe sensitive skin and alleviate redness.
- Brightens your complexion
Did you know this slimy skincare ingredient can help you get a radiant and clear complexion? Vitamin C, found in snail mucus, can brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
- Combats acne
You must add snail mucin to your skincare routine if you want to keep breakouts at bay. Antimicrobial peptides found in snail mucin can help combat acne-causing bacteria and prevent acne.
How to use snail mucin?
Are you wondering how to add this potent ingredient to your skincare routine? Since there are so many different serums and creams that include snail mucin, the application resembles regular skin care products. The formulation you choose will depend on the specific concerns you have with your complexion and the benefits you expect to derive from the ingredient. If you want to give your skin an extra dose of hydration, I recommend a snail mucin night cream to lock in the moisture. If you want to use it as a multipurpose anti-ageing treatment, opt for snail mucin in a serum form, as these will include a higher concentration of the component. Use it in the morning and evening after cleansing; before applying any other products.
Like any skincare ingredient, snail mucin works best when used consistently. It may take some time before you see results, so be patient and incorporate it into your daily skincare routine. If you want to learn more about the incredible benefits of snail mucin, schedule a consultation with me. Click here.