In the ever-changing space of skincare, a shocking candidate has appeared as the modern sensation, Snail Mucin or snail extract. Snail Mucin, AKA snail secretion filtrate obtained from Cryptomphalus aspersa or Helix aspera, or other common species of snails, has lately created a position in the beauty and skincare industry worldwide, creating debates regarding its efficiency as well as origins.
The Origin of The Interesting Ingredient
Snail Mucin is a self-lubricating substance that helps snails to move properly and safeguard their gentle bodies from rough surfaces. In ancient times, Greeks used Snail extracts on their skins to combat inflammation and other wounds.
The chemistry creates the actual hype
Snail secretion filtrate contains peptides and glycoproteins, which are natural proteins that are known for their ability to provide skin elasticity and skin strength. Also, snail mucous contains glycolic acid, which is well-acknowledged as an exfoliant frequently applied to remove dead skin layers. In addition, the snail extract contains Allantoin, which is a moisturizing agent that smoothens the skin.
The Anti-ageing properties
The anti-aging benefits of the snail extract are tempting in various ways. Studies show that components like glycoproteins and peptides are recognized to restore fibroblast generation of elastin and collagen, which are the immunogens that the body naturally reduces generation with aging. The use of products that contain glycoproteins and peptides permits improved youthful skin with a firm appearance along with increased skin elasticity.
The hydrating power
Hyaluronic acid which is also a compelling humectant present in snail extract, brings out its capability to hold skin moisture, hydrate the barrier of the skin, and give probiotic sustenance to good bacteria of the bacterial ecosystem of the skin. This offers long-term hydration and decreases transepidermal water loss (TEWL), making the skin hydrated and firm.
Anti-acne property
Exfoliative acids present in Snail Mucin, like lactic acid and glycolic acid, are well-known for helping unclog pores and decrease the production of sebum, hence reducing acne pathogenesis.
Treating hyperpigmentation and scarring
Recent studies show that applications of snail extract target rigid scars frequently left behind from past skin damage. Also, the lactic acid present in snail mucous helps penetrate other skin care products, aiding in treating scars. Moreover, Glycolic acid functions to target post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and particularly atrophic acne scars with its keratolytic properties and promoting the growth of new skin cells.Â
The process of using Snail Mucin
The application of Snail Mucin depends on the specific skin concerns of users, like people using this skin elixir to improve the texture of their skin, enhance their anti-aging game, or for abilities to reduce atrophic acne scars or hyperpigmentation. To include Snail Mucin within the skincare routine, professionals suggest applying Snail Mucin once or twice per day. There are several skincare products that contain snail mucous, such as night creams, under-eye creams, serums, moisturizers, and repair creams.
Additionally, studies also suggest that combining retinol antioxidants and other active ingredients like vitamin C can boost elastin and collagen production more effectively, helping in rejuvenating spotless and wrinkle-free skin. However, as per recent studies, when using Snail Mucin in the daytime, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is important.
Market Insights
The increasing number of individuals encountering skin issues is fueling the market for snail mucous products. Skincare companies such as COSRX, Beauty of Joseon, and SeoulCeuticals are Korean companies that are famous for their Snail Mucin products. Nevertheless, Indian skincare companies like Be Bodywise, The DermaCo., Earth Rhythm, and Renee Cosmetics are in the race to captivate the market of Snail Mucin products. However, with the changing trends towards cruelty-free beauty products, the harvesting process of the mucous creates buzz in the beauty industry. Conversely, despite the issues, the acceptance of snail extract-containing products is still growing.
Very informative. Keep up the good work.