Snail slime, also known as snail mucin or snail secretion, has been used for centuries in East Asia for its beneficial effects on the skin. This slimy substance is produced by snails to protect their bodies and help them move around, but it has also been found to have numerous benefits for the human skin. As a matter of fact, it has become increasingly more popular nowadays, and it’s used in many skincare products.
Peptides
One of the main components of snail slime are called peptides. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that are linked together by peptide bonds. They are an important class of biomolecules that play a variety of roles in the body, including serving as hormones, neurotransmitters, enzymes, and structural components of tissues. The peptides in snail slime help to stimulate collagen production, which is important for maintaining a firm and youthful skin. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its structure, elasticity, and provides it with tensile strength (resistance to strain), and is essential to the healing process. As we age or are exposed to factors such as smoking or pollution, our bodies may produce less Collagen, which can cause sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and stretch marks. Additionally, Collagen deficiency can prevent the skin from healing properly. Snail slime creams and serums, like NEREA Spirale and Gorgolaio, which contain natural peptides, can help to offset Collagen loss, boost its production and improve the appearance of stretch marks and wrinkles, as well as promote the healing of skin lesions like burns or acne.
Vitamins and Minerals
We often become anxious when we notice any blemishes or imperfections on our skin, which can ruin our day. In addition to treating these issues, it is important to nourish our skin to prevent the appearance of new problems. One way to do this is by providing our skin with the nutrients it needs. In addition to peptides, snail mucin contains a number of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for the skin, including vitamins A, C and E. Vitamin A helps to even out skin pigmentation, moisturize the skin, and give it a glowing appearance. Vitamin C, a well-known vitamin, helps to combat aging by neutralizing free radicals, it enhances skin radiance, and protects against UV rays by regulating the production of melanin. While we often think of nutritional supplements when it comes to vitamins, it has been shown that applying vitamin C topically to the skin can be more effective than taking it orally. Vitamin E, on the other hand, is known for its antioxidant properties and ability to improve skin texture and elasticity. Snail slime also contains copper, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce redness and irritation.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is a compound known for its anti-aging properties, and it’s also produced by snails in their secretion. Glycolic acid has several functions: it removes dead skin cells, improving the texture of the skin; it promotes the production of hyaluronic acid, which provides moisture to the outer layer of the skin; it evens out the distribution of melanin, resulting in a brighter and more even-toned complexion; and it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, improving the skin’s suppleness and elasticity. These properties make it possible to see significant improvements in the appearance and health of your skin. Snail slime creams and serums, like NEREA Spirale and Gorgolaio, can help reduce wrinkles and skin imperfections like dark spots, as well as refine the skin’s texture and revitalize the complexion.
Elastin
Now that we talked about Collagen, we’d like to mention Elastin as well. Elastin is a protein that is found in the skin, blood vessels, and other tissues in the body. It is responsible for providing elasticity and resilience to these tissues. During puberty, the body’s production of elastin increases, which can contribute to the changes in skin texture and elasticity that occur during this time, but as we age, the production of elastin naturally declines, and existing molecules break down, which can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin as for collagen loss. Elastin is also important for the appearance of skin marks, such as stretch marks, which occur when the skin is stretched beyond its elastic limit. Ensuring that the skin is well-nourished with the nutrients it needs to produce elastin can help to maintain a youthful and healthy appearance as we age. Snail slime helps repairing and regenerating damaged skin cell, making the skin look younger and firmer.
Hyaluronic Acid
Snail secretion is also rich in Hyaluronic acid, which is a polysaccharide (a type of carbohydrate) that is naturally produced by the body. It is found in high concentrations in the skin, joints, and other connective tissues. Hyaluronic acid has a number of important functions in the body, including acting as a lubricant and cushioning agent in the joints, and helping to keep the skin hydrated and plump. In the skin, hyaluronic acid plays a key role in attracting and maintaining moisture levels and preventing dryness. It has the ability to hold large amounts of water, which helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump. As we age, the body’s production of hyaluronic acid naturally declines, our skin naturally loses moisture and becomes dry and dull, which can contribute to the appearance of wrinkles and the loss of skin elasticity. By applying snail mucin to the skin, you can help boost hydration and improve the overall appearance of your skin.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Snail mucin is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce redness and irritation in the skin. This makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin or conditions like marks, psoriasis, acne, eczema or rosacea.
Conclusion
In conclusion, snail slime is a substance produced by snails that is a powerful skincare ingredient. It offers a number of benefits for the human skin: from boosting collagen production to improving hydration and reducing inflammation, from promoting skin repair and healing, to improving the skin’s suppleness, moisturization, and radiance. It is no wonder that it has become so popular in recent years. If you are looking for an organic and effective way to improve the appearance of your skin, consider incorporating snail slime into your skincare routine with NEREA Milano’s products! Gorgolaio and Spirale are out cutting edge snail slime ointments which combine the power of snail secretion with the power of several other plants and fruits extracts. Check them out now!
