The Best Snail-Mucin Products, According to Experts
Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers
Touted by beauty editors, skin-care obsessives, and dermatologists alike, snail mucin — the literal slime from snails — is a hero ingredient that can improve hydration, stimulate collagen production, and aid in skin regeneration, says Dr. Karan Lal, a double board-certified dermatologist.
You might have some reservations on how it’s produced, but Dr. James Y. Wang, a dermatologist and the founder of Metropolis Dermatology, says it’s “collected as a by-product of the snails, rather than directly from an organ,” meaning that there’s no harm done to the animals. Below, top dermatologists and skin-care obsessives share their favorite snail-mucin products for all skin types.
Elicina Crema de Caracol Snail Cream
$27
$27
Hand says Elicina Crema de Caracol Snail Cream is the “OG snail mucin product,” thanks to its intense brightening formula that’s infused with glycoproteins to attract and retain moisture, which can smooth texture and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The cream also contains peptides to stimulate collagen production, which can further improve the appearance of aging skin. Hand says this cream can reduce inflammation and redness as well, due to its allantoin, a synthetically derived compound that regenerates skin cells.
$27
at Amazon
$27
at Amazon
Biopelle Tensage Intensive Serum 40 Ampoules
$136
Two of our dermatologist sources give their stamps of approval to this Biopelle serum for deep hydration and anti-aging. Dr. Lal recommends Biopelle to clients whose primary skin concern is premature aging, as the vitamins A and C keep the skin looking youthful and glowy. And while you’ve probably gathered by now that moisturizing is one of snail mucin’s top benefits, it can also trigger the production of new collagen, which results in firmer skin. As such, Dr. Corey L. Hartman, the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology, notes that this humectant moisturizer is a good choice for those looking for tighter, more hydrated skin.
$136
at Dermstore
Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule
now 43% off
$17
If improved elasticity is one of your skin goals, Hand suggests Mizon’s Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule, noting that the glycerin and panthenol formula stimulates collagen production, which is key for tight, youthful skin. Nicole Doswell, an executive director at a PR agency who frequently tries new skin-care products and treatments, calls it the “under-eye killer” of her beauty routine. “I suck at using anything regularly, but this is the only product I’ve used that made a difference,” she says. “The skin finally feels hydrated and my bags are lighter in color.”
$17
at Amazon
$17
at Amazon
Nerea Milano Gorgolaio Snail Slime Serum
$140
$140
I stumbled upon this incredible snail serum while in Bologna last spring. Made with enzymatic snail-secretion filtrate extract, this serum nourishes and provides long-lasting hydration. Gina Maruschak, a New York–based publicist who’s used this daily since 2020, also notes its moisturizing abilities, calling it a “miracle product.” Because snail mucin is packed with hyaluronic acid, Dr. Hartman says that Nerea Milano can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, all while plumping the skin.
$140
at Nerea Milano
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