What snail secretion filtrate can do
Packed with skin-loving nutrients, snail filtrate (otherwise known as snail slime) is taking the beauty world by storm. A concentrated form of the mucus produced by snails, snail filtrate may seem strange and gross, but many women swear by it. Here are six ways snail filtrate benefits your skin.
1. Nourishes and protects
Snail filtrate contains hyaluronic acid, glycoprotein, proteoglycans, and antimicrobial and copper peptides, all of which fight against premature aging. These nutrients help protect a snail’s skin from damage, infection, dryness, and UV rays; and they do the same for human skin, too.
2. Fades acne scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks
Snail filtrate contains fibrinolytic enzymes that promote the oxygenation of skin cells, which helps to repair damaged tissues. These enzymes also enhance nutrition. What’s more, snail filtrate contains glycolic acid, a natural exfoliant which helps remove dead skin cells and encourages cell renewal. This fades scars as well as fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Battles acne and dandruff
Filled with natural antibiotics, snail filtrate kills acne-causing bacteria that live on your skin’s surface. The result is clearer skin with consistent use.
4. Exfoliates
An amazing exfoliant, snail filtrate removes dead skin cells and stimulates cell renewal. This evens out your complexion and diminishes the appearance of fine lines, age spots, and wrinkles. Its exfoliating properties are attributed to the natural collagen, elastin, and glycolic acid found in it.
5. Aids healing of wounds and burns
Snail filtrate contains allantoin, a natural substance which promotes cell renewal and the reconstruction of damaged tissues. It also contains fibrinolytic enzymes that repair damaged tissue and rebuild blood vessels.
6. Promotes optimal skin health
Snail filtrate provides your skin with potent quantities of vitamins A and E, as well as copper peptides, zinc, iron, and manganese.
Fun facts about filtrate
Relatively new in the US, snail filtrate has little research behind it. Yet anecdotal evidence suggests that it is a powerful beauty aid. Here are some amazing facts about snail filtrate.
Snail filtrate contains up to 98% water
However, most companies filter the slime multiple times to increase its concentration. Thus, you should check consistency and quality of snail filtrate when searching for a quality product.
Most cosmetic snail filtrate is harvested from lab-grown garden nails
Come harvest time, they’re literally stressed out. And this is on purpose: When snails are stressed, they produce a specific type of slime that contains tons of beneficial qualities.
Most snail filtrate is used in Korean cosmetics, serums, facial masks, and moisturizers
And these products aren’t as slimy as you’d think. Most have a neutral smell and texture.
Snail spas are popular in Thailand, Japan, and Korea
During a snail spa session, living snails are placed on your face and left to slither around, releasing their beauty-enhancing slime.
Snail slime as a beauty aid dates back to ancient Greece
Back then, physicians used to crush up snails and mix them with water to help alleviate inflammation.
Tips for a first-rate filtrate experience
If you’re interested in trying out snail filtrate, start with a small amount on a specific area of your skin to check for an allergic reaction. Use snail filtrate consistently for at least two weeks to reap its benefits.
Here are some tips for best use of snail filtrate.
- Apply snail filtrate to clean skin directly after cleansing your face. Use at night is best.
- Using gentle, circular motions, apply the filtrate all over your face.
- Use snail filtrate consistently for at least two weeks. It may take three months before you notice significant results.
- If you want to enhance snail filtrate’s effects, drink at least two liters of water a day and consume foods rich in vitamins A and E, such as avocado, carrots, almonds, and olive oil.
References
- “Does Slimy Snail Cream Do Anything for Your Face?,” NYMag.com, July 16, 2015.
- “Does Snail Slime Really Have Beauty Benefits?,” Yahoo! News, October 5, 2015.
- “Everything You Need to Know About Snail Beauty Products,” Coveteur, September 3, 2015.
- “Snail Slime Sliding Into Skin Care Products,” ABC News, October 17, 2014.
