The skincare trend of snail mucin, highlighted by TikTok users for its purported benefits in moisturizing, enhancing radiance, and reducing wrinkles, is garnering attention.
Despite reservations from some experts regarding this unconventional ingredient, its efficacy is supported by its rich composition of skin-beneficial compounds such as proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, and hyaluronic acid, explained Dr. Yoram Harth, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of MDacne, to NBC news.
With over 1.3 billion views on TikTok videos featuring snail mucin, the product, particularly the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence serum, has satisfied many users. Reviews praise its lightweight, slightly slimy gel texture that absorbs well, leaving the skin dewy and hydrated.
COSRX, a Korean beauty brand, markets this serum as offering “intense hydration” due to its high content of sodium hyaluronate and snail secretion filtrate (96.3%), as reported by the New York Post.
Julia Marinkovich, COSRX’s UK representative, elaborated on the benefits to the Sun, highlighting the moisturizing properties of hyaluronic acid within the mucin that supports the skin barrier, along with glycolic acid that boosts collagen production, thereby diminishing fine lines and enhancing the skin’s glow.
Retailing at $25 for a 3.38 fluid-ounce bottle, the product is recommended for application with fingertips after cleansing and toning but before moisturizing.
Despite TikTok’s role in popularizing snail mucin in skincare, the practice is not entirely new. However, it may not suit everyone, especially those with a rare snail allergy. There have been instances reported on TikTok of users experiencing breakouts, and some medical aestheticians advise against its use on acne-prone skin.
