Plan to include snail mucin in your skincare regimen? Consider these risks before buying

Certain individuals should avoid applying snail mucin, she notes.

Dr Sarin highlights that people allergic to shellfish or dust mites could have adverse reactions to snail mucin, as the mucin contains similar proteins that might trigger allergic responses in these individuals. Additionally, she mentions that those with sensitive or irritated skin should be cautious, as the active components in snail mucin could potentially worsen their skin condition rather than improve it.

Allergic reactions and components in snail mucin

Dr Swetha Sridhar, senior consultant dermatologist and assistant professor at Lady Curzon and Bowring Hospital, echoes Dr Sarin’s concerns, stating that individuals who are allergic to shellfish or dust mites may react to similar allergens present in snail mucin. “This is because snail mucin contains protein compounds that can trigger an immune response in people with mollusk allergies, similar to those triggered by shellfish,” she asserts.

The main concern involves tropomyosin, a protein also found in shellfish, which is a known allergen. Another potential allergen in snail mucin is chitinase, she adds, which can cross-react with dust mite allergies. These components can cause reactions ranging from mild irritation to severe allergic responses, depending on the individual’s sensitivity.

Snail mucin for sensitive or irritated skin

Patch testing

“The best way for someone with sensitive or irritated skin to determine if snail mucin is suitable for them is to perform a patch test,” Dr Sridhar suggests. Apply a small amount of the product containing snail mucin to a discreet area of skin, she says, such as the inside of the forearm, and monitor the site for any signs of irritation or allergic reaction over 24 to 48 hours.

Monitoring skin response

If the skin remains normal without any adverse reactions such as redness, itching, or blistering, it might be safe to use. “If any irritation occurs, it would be best to avoid products containing snail mucin,” she proposes.

Snail mucin can sometimes interact with common acne treatments (Source: Freepik)

Interactions between snail mucin and acne treatments

Snail mucin can sometimes interact with common acne treatments, especially those that dry out the skin, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. “Its moisturising properties can help mitigate some of the dryness, but it may also interfere with the effectiveness of exfoliating agents by forming a barrier on the skin,” Dr Sridhar affirms.

For those using topical acne treatments, she advises to use snail mucin at a different time of day to prevent interaction. For example, apply acne treatment at night and snail mucin in the morning.

Individuals with active acne concerns should consult with a dermatologist to tailor a skincare routine that accommodates both treatment and hydration needs without compromising the skin’s health.

Alternative products that can replace snail mucin based on your skin needs

If you have allergies, skin sensitivity or acne prone skin, then it’s best to avoid products containing snail mucin. Dr Sridhar recommends the following alternatives to address your specific skin concerns:

*Hyaluronic Acid: For hydration, hyaluronic acid is a highly recommended alternative. It helps retain moisture in the skin without the potential allergenic effects associated with snail mucin.

*Ceramides: These are lipid molecules found naturally in the skin that help reinforce the skin barrier and retain moisture.

*Glycerin: Another effective humectant that attracts water to the skin, making it a suitable option for those needing hydration without irritation.

*Squalane: This is a non-irritating plant-derived oil that hydrates and soothes the skin, suitable for acne-prone or sensitive skin types.