Who would have thought – Skincare products made with slime from snails have become wildly popular, as they are said to reduce inflammation and signs of aging. What benefits do they have, and do they live up to the hype? Let's take a look!Related Video Above: Why People Are Rubbing Snail Slime on Their FacesWhat is snail mucin?According to a Mayo Clinic press release, snail mucin is the mucus that snails secrete - yes, the slime snails leave behind when they move across a surface. They are also used in medicine as they help with wound healing. Mayo Clinic said in a 2023 article that it does appear that certain types of snail mucin have moisturizing and protective qualities good for your skin. Is snail mucin beneficial to my skin?Snail mucin contains antioxidants that may help reduce signs of aging like wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and sagging, according to the Mayo Clinic. Studies indicate that snail mucin helps with skin regeneration and protects against damaging free radicals. What’s an example of a skincare product containing snail mucin?We found one product, COSRX’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, now on sale for only $17 on Amazon. The product has nearly 81,000 reviews on Amazon and received a 4.6-star rating. The hydrating serum for face is said to be formulated with 96.3% snail secretion filtrate. It's said to help repair and rejuvenate the skin from dryness and aging. Can't see the product? Click here for the best viewing experience! According to the brand, other benefits of the product include: Fades dark spots Improves skin texture Anti-aging Intense hydrationThe product targets dull, rough, or damaged skin, but also helps improve dark spots and scars. How do I use this product?After cleansing and toning, apply a small amount on your entire face. Gently pat using fingertips to aid absorption, and then go forth with your moisturizer.What are customers saying about the product? Below are some of the reviews customers left on Amazon after using the product:"I heard about this through social media and had to try. The price is great and the size is nice. The consistency is gooey as it should, so it took getting used to, but it isn’t sticky at all, which I thought it would be. It’s gentle and gives a nice glow once used.""One of the key benefits I've experienced is its ability to repair and soothe irritated skin. Whether it's from environmental stressors or acne, this essence works wonders in calming redness and reducing inflammation. It has also helped fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation, leaving my skin looking more even-toned and radiant.""It is definitely worth the hype and I would definitely give it a try. I didn't have any irritation and I have extremely sensitive skin. Also, there is no scent, which is nice. I did feel a little strange putting snail mucin on my face but I am now a true believer The stuff is awesome!"Though the product can be used on sensitive skin, the brand suggests that customers perform a patch test on the body before applying the serum on the face. Are snails harmed in the making of the products?According to the product page on Amazon, snail mucin is obtained through placing snails in a dark and quiet environment for 30 minutes, then transferring them back to their homes. Snail mucin is then collected and processed for cosmetic use, and no snails are harmed in the process.COSRX is based in South Korea. According to an article on COSRX’s official website, it is prohibited to manufacture, distribute and sell products that have undergone animal testing in Korea. They also said that optimal mucin production occurs when snails are well-rested and content. They said no snails are hurt during the collection process.