Skincare has become a self-care necessity for most people. From the different cleansers, serums and creams, it can sometimes be overwhelming to determine the perfect products, especially for mothers-to-be. Pregnant women’s bodies are going through many changes. They oftentimes need to switch their routine, in search of the perfect product for their skin. On product that has become popular in people’s skincare routines is snail mucin.
What is Snail Mucin?
Snail mucin comes from the mucus that a snail secretes. According to a press release from the Mayo Clinic hospital, this mucus comes from the snail’s back. The product sells as an essence, as a cream or as a serum. The serum provides the highest amount of snail mucin in a product. An essence version of it is water-based and a good option for beginners first being introduced to the product.
Uses of Snail Mucin
Snail mucin has several beneficial properties that can treat skin. The ingredients are great for brightening, moisturizing and hydrating the skin. It’s also a helpful anti-aging product, minimizing wrinkles and fine lines.
Snail mucin also aids some dermatological conditions that can cause redness, inflammation and hyperpigmentation. People who suffer from conditions, like psoriasis, rosacea and eczema, may see improvements to their skin after using snail mucin. For best results, try using snail mucin during your nighttime skincare routine. When you go to bed, this gives the product time to settle into your skin and start working.
According to a report by Everyday Health, consider the condition of your skin when deciding how often to use snail mucin. For example, because it is good for hydration, a person with oily skin may not need to use snail mucin as much as a person with dry skin. Since it also can be use to treat wounds, snail mucin is effective for cuts on your skin.
Can Pregnant Women Use It?
According to obstetrics and gynecologist Tamika Sea, it is currently safe for pregnant women to use snail mucin.
“There is no scientific evidence that suggests snail mucin has any carcinogenic or teratogenic properties that need to be avoided during pregnancy,” Sea told 21Ninety.
A pregnant women should still ask their doctor about using the product if they have any concerns.
Side Effects
While snail mucin does come with a number of benefits, some people may experience side effects on their skin. People with sensitive skin should consult with a doctor before using snail mucin. Some users have reported breakouts on their faces and inflammation. Dermatologists suggest using a moisturizer after applying snail mucin to your face to help reduce these risks.
Safe Ingredients
Sea says there are other safe ingredients that pregnant women should look for when buying skincare products.
“Glycolic and azelaic acid containing products have shown safety in pregnancy,” Sea said. “Other products containing salicylic acids and benzoyl peroxides can occasionally be used with extreme caution.”
Ingredients to Avoid
Sea says using certain chemicals during pregnancy can create abnormalities in a baby’s development. These ingredients can pose as a risk if you are breastfeeding after the baby is born. Check with your doctor before using some products.