Following Korean skincare with trending ingredient of snail mucin is all over the social media these days. People are rushing to find products that contain this ingredient as it is packaged like the most desirable skincare when it comes to ultra skin hydration. many are using different products that contain this specific ingredient, although it is used for numerous other purposes too like skin rejuvenation due to its ability to heal, but does it work for Indian skin?
What is Snail Mucin?
It is snail secretion filtrate or secretion by snails that comprises peptides, hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins and other such complex compounds that are known to hydrate the skin and has anti-ageing effects. This is often used in Korean skincare, but the social media and influencers made it popular and many Indians too are opting for it.
Snail mucin is used in various skincare products like, serums, creams, moisturizers and gel masks. The reason why it is popular is due to its high claims of reducing fine lines, having anti-ageing benefits and it is used to remove dark spots.
Is it Beneficial for Indian Skin?
Any product that you begin to use due to popular opinions or media influence, should hold true to its claims, another thing to notice is the origin of the ingredient that tells a lot about whether it is suitable for all or specific skin types. When we look at snail mucin, a key ingredient in Korean skincare, it is to be observed that products containing this particular ingredient are formulated for Korean skin and their skin concerns. Which of course differs from Indian skin type and skin concerns. While many are counting its magical effects, it is not suitable for all or all skin types are not compatible to it.
The weather condition in our country is forevermore transitioning, the temperature is different and the skin type is entirely different as compared to Korean skin type. It is therefore, not suitable for sensitive skin, people who are allergic to shellfish should refrain from using it. Additionally, those who find it difficult for any product to be suitable to their skin should never try it or else it would lead to allergic reaction on the skin.
Potential Risk Factors
Snail mucin comprises proteins and various components that may cause severe allergic reaction to the skin, irritate it and even lead to breakouts.
If your skin is prone to allergies then refrain from using it as chances are that it is incompatible to your skin type.
For people who are sensitive to animal products should avoid using it.
Even if you are allergic to dust mites then don’t use it.
Conditions like eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis don’t go well with this ingredient.
Concerns with Snail Mucin
Consumer awareness and lifestyle choices may intervene with use of this ingredient due to following two major concerns:
Ethical Concerns
Consumers who are looking for cruelty-free products may find it conflicting with their ideology. Additionally, companies harvesting this ingredient may not be using ethical methods that go with little regulation. It may go against the standards of cruelty-free production as it requires stimulating snails in an unethical manner to be able to extract mucin.
Sustainability and Holistic Issues
In a bigger picture the biggest concern is that of being resource-intensive, the environmental factors and the process of production may not be in harmony with nature. The whole process may contribute to environmental stress. Further, people who have chosen holistic lifestyle may find it concerning that goes against their choice of lifestyle and principles.
Is There an Alternate to Snail Mucin?
Like for every ailment and skin concern there is answer in nature, similarly Ayurveda provides answer to snail mucin. The traditional ancient approach of Ayurveda that is based on plants, botanical extracts is enough to support skincare demands of hydration, rejuvenation and anti-ageing.
Ayurveda and Organic Alternates
Natural ingredients with rejuvenating properties:
Skin hydration, soothing and moisture boost can be achieved with aloe vera gel.
Skin nourishment and natural emollient is almond oil.
Rejuvenation and skin health can be achieved by using turmeric.
Natural toning, skin refreshing and cleansing can be done using pure rose water.
If you use bean essence it offers natural skin repair.
Collagen boost, wound healing are naturally possible by using Cica (Centella Asiatica) plant extract that is used in pure Ayurveda skincare.
For improving skin elasticity, reducing appearance of fine lines and wrinkles using plant peptides is the answer.
Using Ayurveda based products that are sustainable, holistic, cruelty-free, free of harsh chemicals ensure that you can maintain your skin health without side effects. Additionally, it is supportive of your wellness journey without animal products, comprising essential oils, plant extracts, floral extracts and precious herbs that makes it best approach for long term use.
(Shahnaz Husain is a pioneer and leader of Ayurvedic beauty care)
