Ever since K-Beauty’s influence took over across international borders, it has captured the attention of skincare communities around the world. And becoming a hot topic of conversation for the everyday person. Its journey has been observed by consecutive triumphs, much like the global sensation, BTS, right up until 2023. Among a variety of products and ingredients used in Korean skincare, snail mucin is probably the one that stands out the most. Its popularity has skyrocketed since its beginning and people cannot seem to get enough of it. Selling millions weekly, no skincare line has come close to the popularity it has achieved. But in recent times, some questions have emerged regarding the procuring of Mucin and how safe it really is.
Let’s dig deeper…
Snail Mucin and its glory days
Snail secretion in skincare products has been loved by many as an anti-aging miracle ingredient, providing deep hydration, skin brightening, wound repairing and even acne care. Competing on the same level of popularity as other ingredients like Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C and even retinol. So the big question is, why are we seeing a decline in its popularity?
Over the years, the use of snail mucin in skincare has gained popularity, particularly in South Korea, where it’s a common ingredient in many beauty products. Today, snail mucin can be found in a range of skincare products, from serums to masks, and continues to be lauded for its numerous skin benefits.
When snail products were first introduced, the idea of applying snail mucin to our faces did not seem so pleasant. Despite its awe benefits, the thought of it being snail’s secretion was hard to overcome. This is especially true in Western countries where such ingredients are not commonplace in skincare as compared to Asia. Though the wound healing benefit was discovered on a snail farm in Chile.
With the rise of Cosrx’s Advanced Snail Mucin line, from essence, moisturiser, cleanser to even eye products, being sold millions worldwide, annually, you’d think everyone and every skin loves it! You’ll even notice more brands now have snail lines.
Reasons WHY Snail Mucin have haters
A number of brands have shared their stories on how the snail secretion is extracted in the most gentle and effective way without harming or stressing the snails. Although most brands today are striving for a more sustainable, anti-animal testing, and transparent approach to branding, snail mucin still isn’t vegan friendly. It makes it difficult for consumers who are conscious of the ethical implications of their skincare choices to opt for the product. As the woke movement continues to grow, many may prefer to go for an alternate or plant-based approach.
Moreover, while snail mucin is loved for its instant hydrating and regenerating properties, it does not serve as a solution to all problems. People with certain skin problems may find other ingredients helpful or those that provide more. For example, although Snail contains glycolic acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, someone struggling with intense acne might still require the use BHA, and other struggling with visible fine lines can reach for retinol.
Thought Snail Mucin sounds exotic and promising with all of it’s benefits, not all skincare lovers are the adventurous type when it comes to trying new ingredients. Some prefer to stick to what works best for them, and introducing a new product into a skincare routine always carries the risk of causing a reaction or breakout.
Though products with snail slime have helped so many people around the world with skin concerns like ACNE, SKIN DEHYDRATION, FINE LINES, DULLNESS and other EARLY SIGNS OF AGEING, for the rest, it caused breakouts, little bumps popping here and there. So, this is probably another reason why snail just isn’t selling like it did.
But Snail still Sails
However, this doesn’t mean snail mucin isn’t loved and useful in skincare. Cosrx Advanced Snail line like that Snail 96 essence and All in One Snail 92 cream, still has a cult following of its own. As a result of its high level of hydration, it remains in our daily skincare routine for skin dehydration, eczema prone and dry skin in drier climates. It’s possible that now snail mucin has become more mainstream than before (if it was even possible). Therefore, it is safe to say, unlike various skincare trends that may come and go, Snail mucin is here to stay and solve your skin concerns.
Watch Video on how COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence and COSRX Advanced Snail Radiance Dual Essence are different here
