The Snail Mucin Products Worth Trying, According to Experts

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.

Featured Experts

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 hyaluron i c 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

1 / 4

“For patients interested in trying snail-based skincare, I usually point them toward options with more sophisticated delivery systems, like the Tensage line, which uses a growth-factor-rich secretion from the Cryptomphalus snail,” says Dr. Joel Schlessinger. This serum, and its more intensive counterpart, Biopelle Tensage Intensive Serum 40 ($150), offer a more elegant, clinically-developed approach than many basic mucin essences.”

2 / 4

Cosrx is arguably the most popular snail mucin brand, and Cho says it’s a cult-favorite for a reason. This essence is 96 percent snail mucin, which means serious hydration and skin barrier protection, she explains. “A few pumps of this on your skin enhances moisture, soothes redness and supports overall barrier health.”

3 / 4

“This essence is a perfect example of a nourishing snail treatment product that you can apply all over your skin like a moisturizer,” says Cho. “It has a bouncy and cushiony texture that your skin drinks in immediately, delivering layers of hydration without the stickiness. It’s great to layer on dry patches, on your neck and hands as well, for soft and supple skin.”