By now, you’ve probably come across the viral skin-care ingredient snail mucin. Like many beauty trends of the past few years, it has roots in K-beauty. “Snail mucin isn’t new; it’s been a staple, cult ingredient found in creams, serums and even hair products,” says Charlotte Cho, co-founder of K-beauty marketplace Soko Glam.
With so many brands jumping on the trend and adding snail mucin to ingredient lists, it can be hard to tell which formulas are actually worth your time. So, we asked experts to pinpoint the ones that actually deliver. But first, a bit of background.
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What Is Snail Mucin?
In Korea, snail mucin has long been used to help soften and smooth skin, says Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD. Now, the ingredient has become a viral hit stateside as well.
“Snail mucin is a filtered secretion produced by snails that’s incorporated into skin care because it naturally contains hydrating molecules like hyaluronic acid and peptides,” he explains. “While it sounds unusual, it’s simply another humectant ingredient designed to draw moisture into the skin.”
Daniel Schlessinger, MD, also a dermatologist in Omaha, adds that while there isn’t a wealth of strong clinical data behind it, many people enjoy the texture and hydrating feel. “Essentially, it’s a gentle hydrating ingredient and can be a nice addition under a moisturizer for those who like lightweight, water-binding layers,” he says.
The Benefits of Snail Mucin in Skin Care
“Snail mucin may help hydrate, soothe and support the skin barrier, which is why it has become such a social-media favorite despite limited clinical research trials,” says Dr. Daniel Schlessinger.
According to Cho, the ingredient is “full of proteins and peptides that support the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate and even some glycolic acid to help gently exfoliate your skin’s surface for a softer, smoother feel and brighter look.”
Cho adds that some of snail mucin’s regenerative properties may also help with hyperpigmentation and scarring. It also has “antimicrobial properties that can soothe acne-prone skin and reduce inflammation.
Dr. Joel Schessinger notes that while snail mucin on its own isn’t a miracle ingredient, it can be a helpful addition to a routine focused on hydration and skin repair.
Ahead, learn more about the snail mucin–infused products they recommend.
Snail Mucin Products to Try
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