Description
Snail Mucin Hydrating Face Serum
A lightweight hydrating serum formulated with snail secretion filtrate, hyaluronic acid, and hydrolyzed collagen to support skin moisture retention and improve the appearance of skin texture. This fast-absorbing formula combines traditional K-beauty ingredients with modern humectants and skin-conditioning agents for comprehensive hydration and a smooth, supple finish.
What's In It:
• Snail Secretion Filtrate: The filtered mucus secreted by snails (typically Cryptomphalus aspersa) as a protective response to stress or injury. This ingredient has been a cornerstone of Korean skincare for decades and contains a complex mixture of bioactive compounds:
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Allantoin: A naturally occurring compound that supports skin cell proliferation and may aid in surface cell turnover
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Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that provides gentle chemical exfoliation
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Glycoproteins: Proteins with attached carbohydrate chains that help maintain skin hydration
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Proteoglycans: Molecules that bind water and support the extracellular matrix structure
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Antimicrobial Peptides: Small proteins with studied antimicrobial properties
Research on snail mucin suggests it may support wound healing, hydration, and the appearance of skin texture, though most studies are in vitro or animal models. Human studies are limited but show promise for improving skin hydration and the appearance of photoaged skin.
• Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid Salt): The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid—a glycosaminoglycan naturally present in skin's extracellular matrix. Each hyaluronic acid molecule can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an exceptional humectant. Sodium hyaluronate has a smaller molecular size than hyaluronic acid, potentially enabling better penetration into upper skin layers where it attracts and retains moisture, creating a plumping effect on the skin's surface.
• Hydrolyzed Collagen: Collagen protein broken down into smaller peptides (typically 2-10 amino acids) through hydrolysis. While topical collagen cannot penetrate deeply enough to rebuild dermal collagen structures, hydrolyzed collagen functions as a film-forming humectant that:
- Attracts moisture to the skin surface
- Creates a protective film that reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Temporarily improves the appearance of skin texture and smoothness
• Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs): Long-chain polysaccharides (including hyaluronic acid, dermatan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate) that are structural components of the extracellular matrix. GAGs bind large amounts of water, contributing to skin hydration and the appearance of plumpness.
• Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica): An herb used in traditional Asian medicine, also known as gotu kola or tiger grass. Contains active compounds including:
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Asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid: Triterpenoids studied for their potential to support collagen synthesis and wound healing
- Research suggests Centella asiatica may support skin barrier function and provide soothing properties for irritated skin
• Panthenol (Provitamin B5): The alcohol form of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). When applied topically, panthenol:
- Converts to pantothenic acid in the skin
- Functions as a humectant, attracting and binding water
- May support skin barrier function and improve hydration
- Provides a smooth, conditioning feel to formulations
• Betaine: A naturally occurring amino acid derivative (trimethylglycine) found in sugar beets. Functions as an osmolyte—a compound that helps cells maintain water balance under stress. In skincare, betaine acts as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent.
• Allantoin: A compound found in plants (comfrey root), snail mucin, and synthesized for cosmetic use. Studied for its potential to support skin cell proliferation and provide a smoothing effect on skin texture.
• Glycerin: A three-carbon alcohol and one of the most effective humectants in skincare. Attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the stratum corneum, improving hydration and skin barrier function.
Supporting Ingredients:
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Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol: Humectants and solvent systems that enhance ingredient delivery and texture
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Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer: Silicone that provides slip, smooth application, and a soft-focus effect on skin texture
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Amodimethicone: A conditioning silicone that improves skin feel
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Carbomer, Sodium Polyacrylate: Thickening agents that create serum viscosity
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Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-Hexanediol: Preservative system preventing microbial growth
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Disodium EDTA: Chelating agent that improves formula stability
What It Does:
This serum delivers multi-layered hydration through a combination of humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, betaine, panthenol) that attract water to the skin surface, and film-forming ingredients (hydrolyzed collagen, snail mucin) that help reduce water loss. The result is improved skin hydration, a plumper appearance, smoother texture, and enhanced suppleness.
The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula layers well under other skincare products and makeup, making it versatile for both morning and evening routines. The silicone content provides immediate smoothness and a soft-focus effect on skin texture.
Realistic Expectations:
This is a hydrating serum that improves the appearance of skin moisture, plumpness, and texture through surface hydration and temporary effects. It does not rebuild dermal collagen, eliminate wrinkles, or reverse photoaging at a structural level. Benefits are most noticeable with consistent daily use and are enhanced when combined with:
- Proper cleansing
- Sunscreen (AM)
- Moisturizer to seal in serum benefits
- Adequate water intake and sleep
Effects are temporary and require ongoing use to maintain results.
How It Fits Into K-Beauty Philosophy:
Snail mucin is a foundational ingredient in Korean skincare (K-beauty), which emphasizes:
- Hydration at multiple levels
- Gentle, consistent care over aggressive treatments
- Layering lightweight products for cumulative benefits
- Prevention and maintenance rather than correction
This serum embodies the K-beauty approach of delivering concentrated actives in a comfortable, elegant texture.
Who Should Use This:
Suitable for all skin types, particularly:
- Dehydrated skin (lacks water, not oil)
- Dry skin needing moisture support
- Normal to combination skin seeking lightweight hydration
- Sensitive skin (generally well-tolerated, though patch test recommended)
- Those interested in K-beauty hydration protocols
Sourcing & Production:
Manufactured in the USA.
Product Specifications:
- Net Volume: 1 fl oz (30 ml)
- Net Weight: 0.07 lbs
- Total Weight: 2.7 oz (0.17 lbs / 75g)
- Country of Origin: USA
Usage Instructions:
Application:
- Use after cleansing and toning (if applicable)
- Shake well before use to ensure even distribution of ingredients
- Dispense 3-4 drops onto fingertips
- Gently press and pat serum into face and neck (avoid tugging or rubbing)
- Allow 30-60 seconds to absorb before applying next product
- Follow with moisturizer to seal in hydration
Layering Order: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM)
Frequency: Can be used morning and evening. Safe for daily use.
Pro Tips:
- Apply to damp skin (immediately after cleansing or toning) for enhanced absorption
- Use slightly more product in dry winter months or in low-humidity environments
- Can be mixed with a drop of facial oil for extra nourishment
- Pairs well with other hydrating products in a multi-step routine
Important Safety Information:
For external use only. Avoid direct contact with eyes. If product enters eyes, rinse thoroughly with water. If irritation develops, discontinue use. Patch test recommended for those with sensitive skin or allergies—apply small amount to inner forearm and wait 24 hours before facial use.
SHAKE WELL BEFORE USE. STORE IN A COOL, DRY PLACE AWAY FROM DIRECT SUNLIGHT.
