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Snail mucin is a new ingredient and still niche, so it hasn’t been studied widely when compared with many other popular skin-care ingredients.

But it may offer a few distinct benefits to the skin. “It’s packed with good stuff that your skin will love,” Smith says.

Moisturizes Skin

Products containing snail mucin may be a good choice for people with dry skin. “It contains hydrating characteristics that serve to strengthen the skin barrier and keep moisture in,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami.

This is due to the hyaluronic acid, which immediately hydrates the skin, Smith says. While research on snail mucin is scarce, the hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid are well documented. According to a study published June 2021 in Dermatology and Therapy, hyaluronic acid serum increased skin hydration by 134 percent immediately after application and improved plumpness, smoothness, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Fights Premature Skin Aging

Smith says snail mucin promotes collagen, and others report anecdotally that snail mucin may help offset some of the signs of skin aging, which may be good news for your skin health and for anyone seeking a more youthful look. Previous research found using a serum with 40 percent snail mucin for 12 weeks minimized the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Yet the study was very limited — it was small and involved only 25 women — and more research is needed.

The mechanism here may be the glycolic acid found in snail mucin. “The glycolic acid stimulates collagen formation, which not only reduces fine lines and wrinkles but also gives your skin a beautiful, young shine,” Dr. Chacon says.

Helps Wounds Heal

Snail mucin may come in handy if you’re dealing with a scrape or cut. “Snail mucin is also known for its healing benefits as it’s been shown to enhance wound healing, and it can improve the appearance of scarring,” Smith says. It may also help with acne due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, says Ahmed Chaudhry, MD, a dermatologist and consultant with Scandinavian Biolabs based in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Snail Mucin Serum

For the biggest dose of snail mucin, go for a serum. “If you want to utilize snail mucin as a multi-purpose anti-ager, search for it in a serum, since it will have a larger concentration of the component,” Chacon says.

Snail Mucin Essence

An essence is a thin, water-based product. Smith says it’s a great starting point if you’re new to skin care or want to dip your toe into the snail mucin trend.

Snail Mucin Cream

You’ll also find the ingredient added to moisturizers or creams. If wrinkles are a concern, the thicker the cream, the better. “A thick cream will ensure your skin is reaping the benefits of snail mucin while nourishing your skin at the same time with added lipid input,” Smith says.

By Moira Lawler Medically Reviewed by Ross Radusky, MD www.everydayhealth.com