Is snail mucin really good for your skin?
Het Nieuwsblad, 8 May 2024
What does snail mucin do for the skin? Dr Griet Voet in Het Nieuwsblad on the active substances, the limited evidence, ethical questions and who should avoid it.
In Het Nieuwsblad's 'Werkt dat wel?' ('Does it actually work?') column, Dr Griet Voet and toxicologist Vera Rogiers (VUB) examine the claims about snail mucin in skincare. According to Dr Voet, it contains substances that can stimulate collagen and elastin and hyaluronic acid for hydration, but the same substances are also found in ordinary creams, often in higher and better concentrations.
An antibacterial effect was observed, but not consistently. For acne, scars or pigmentation spots, better-researched products are available. Dr Voet also raises questions about how the mucin is obtained. People who are allergic to shellfish or molluscs are better off not using it, and she advises against it when the skin barrier is weakened, as in eczema or severe acne. The conclusion: no added value compared with regulated cosmetics.
Key advice
Avoid snail mucin if you are allergic to shellfish or molluscs.
Preferably don't use it if you have eczema or severe acne.
For acne or pigmentation spots, choose better-researched products.
“People with an allergy to shellfish and molluscs are best off not using it” — Dr Griet Voet