Snail slime
Many people consider the snail to be a cute garden dweller and all they know about it is that it moves slowly. In some countries, these mollusks are used as food as an expensive delicacy, but more often they are used to cure various ailments. Reviews of snail mucus cannot be negative, since it has a lot of advantages and features that distinguish it from other modern cosmetic products.
The healing properties of the mucus of the slow garden clam were noticed during the life of Hippocrates. He used their secretions on his patients to cure bronchitis and pneumonia. To obtain the desired result, the doctor crushed the snail meat and mixed it with sour milk, and rubbed the resulting mixture into the patient’s chest.
Today, German and French manufacturers produce various cosmetics using snail mucus extract. These products are intended for the treatment of post-acne and scars, as well as facial skin rejuvenation. Fibroblasts contained in the composition help eliminate scars and various wrinkles.
For the first time, the rejuvenating effect of mollusk secretions was noticed by farmers in South America. Because the snails were often on their faces, people's skin ended up looking more delicate and soft, and most importantly, their appearance did not correspond to their real age. At the same time, they noticed that thanks to the mucus, small scratches and deep wounds heal much faster.
Description and purpose of snail extract
For us, the snail is a cute garden dweller, which is known for its very slow movement speed.
Achatina is not only used as food, but is also used to treat many ailments and facial rejuvenation. The medicinal properties of snails became known back in the time of Hippocrates. This doctor used mucus to treat pneumonia and bronchitis. To do this, the shellfish meat was ground and mixed with sour milk. This drug was taken orally and rubbed on the chest.
In the old days, garden Achatina was placed on a piece of sugar and fed to patients with whooping cough, since the mucus can “glue” bacterial cells together. This mollusk, with the help of its mucus, can completely restore a damaged shell.
In Germany and France, creams are made from giant Achatina to treat scars and post-acne. Due to the content of fibroblasts in mucus, skin cells are regenerated. Wrinkles and scars disappear.
They began to use snails for rejuvenation not so long ago. Farm workers in South America were the first to notice the rejuvenating effect of mucus. They grew shellfish for export to France. The skin of the workers caring for the snails was very delicate and soft and did not correspond to their age. In addition, scratches and abrasions healed very quickly.
Compound
For many people, snail mucus is an unpleasant, stringy and sticky substance. In fact, it is a medicinal cocktail with a rather complex composition.
Snail mucus consists of the following components:
- elastin is a protein that allows tissues to grow together and heal faster;
- collagen is a fibrillar protein that is the basis of connective tissue;
- allantoin is a natural substance thanks to which the snail can restore its shell (this component is also present in some creams);
- glycolic acid - a substance that enhances collagen production and moisturizes the skin;
- vitamins A, C, E - contained in mucus in sufficient quantities, nourish and moisturize the deep layers of the skin.
What is snail mucus made of?
The very name “slime” disgusts most of us. I think as a child, many people watched snails and the “traces” they left behind.
Mucus (also known as snail secretion or mucin) contains useful elements. These are allantoin, collagen, glycolic and hyaluronic acids, elastin, and growth factors. The latter are represented by proteins that promote tissue regeneration. Evolution has thus given snails the ability to repair damage. In theory, this is good for people too. But what happens in practice?
Different types of mollusks secrete mucin with different compositions; mollusks of the species Cryptomphalus aspersa (also known as the brown garden snail) are most often used for the production of cosmetics. The composition of mucus may vary slightly in one species of mollusk depending on stimulation. For example, during times of stress, the snail secretes a foamy secretion, which is what is used in skin care products.
Beneficial features
Any cream with snail mucus, like its main component, has a number of advantages:
- Slowing down the aging process. The components of the mucus itself penetrate the cell structure and saturate them with collagen and elastin, which helps improve the facial contour.
- Protection from sun rays. The substances in the product create a thin membrane on the face that protects it from photoaging and sunburn.
- Reducing inflammation. Those with skin prone to irritation and acne can get rid of these problems forever thanks to snail secretions.
- Elimination of scars. Mucus has regenerating properties, is absorbed into scars and resolves them.
- Exfoliation of dead cells. The products remove excess cells, which prevents pores from becoming clogged.
- Elimination of wrinkles. Antioxidants and allantoin help not only the snail in restoring its shell, but also a person in the regeneration of his skin.
The effect of masks with snail mucin
For production, the mucus of not all snails is used, but only of the Helix aspersa species. Their mucin contains the largest amount of beneficial microelements:
- Collagen and elastin are proteins that form the basis of young skin. They fight age-related changes. When their number decreases, skin elasticity is lost and early wrinkles appear.
- Allantoin – ensures cell renewal, destroys free radicals, and has an antioxidant effect. The substance restores the skin, eliminates scars, burns, scars.
- Hyaluronic acid is a natural humectant that attracts water. As a result, the face becomes fresh and well-groomed.
- Copper peptides activate collagen production and protect against pathogenic microorganisms.
- Lectins with glycolic acid make the skin clearer, exfoliate dead cells, and protect from the sun.
- Vitamins nourish cells, get rid of wrinkles, improve the structure and color of the skin.
A snail face mask contains natural antibiotics and polysaccharides. Thanks to the action of all components, the result is noticeable immediately:
- The skin structure is evened out.
- Toxins are removed, nutrients are supplied, and intercellular metabolic processes are restored.
- The surface of the face becomes more hydrated.
- Pigment spots disappear and color improves.
- Cells are protected from external factors.
- The oval of the face is tightened, the skin becomes firmer and more elastic.
- Wounds from injuries and burns heal, keloid scars are reduced.
- The skin is cleansed, pores open, pimples and comedones, and dark circles under the eyes disappear.
The visible result is noticeable after just a few applications. This is a universal remedy for solving many skin defects and problems.
Homemade masks
Most often, snail mucus is used to create products used in cosmetology. They are, of course, not so cheap, because not every person can get the most important component. Owners of private houses, whose gardens and vegetable gardens are home to many snails, will find it easiest to rejuvenate with the help of their mucus.
The most effective and common recipes for homemade masks are:
- Banana. To prepare, you need to take one peeled banana and a teaspoon of snail secretion. The fruit, crushed with a fork, must be combined and thoroughly mixed with mucus. It is recommended to apply the finished puree to the skin for 20 minutes every other day for a month.
- Oatmeal mask. The remedy can be made from a handful of crushed oatmeal, a teaspoon of mucus and 30 ml of warm water. First you need to thoroughly mix the snail secretion with water, and then combine this mass with oatmeal. Keep the mask on your face for no more than 15 minutes. It is best to repeat the procedure 2-3 times a week. It is recommended to wash off the composition from the face with chamomile decoction.
The benefits of masks
The benefits and contraindications of this cosmetic product should be considered in detail. Not all snails are suitable for the production of face masks. Only certain types of these creatures secrete a lot of mucus containing increased amounts of the following substances:
- antioxidants;
- glycolic acid;
- elastin;
- vitamins A, E, C, B6 and B12;
- chitosan;
- allantoin;
- collagen.
The content of these useful substances in snail mucus is due to the need to quickly restore damage to the shell, as well as microtraumas to the sole.
The composition of this secretion also has a pronounced positive effect on human skin. Mucus perfectly moisturizes, heals small cracks and wounds.
Among other things, the secret helps improve tissue regeneration, restores the structure of the integument, and also increases tone. In people who have pronounced keloid scars, the use of such masks helps to resolve these defects.
Just a few procedures can eliminate fine wrinkles and significantly smooth out deep ones.
As a rule, such a snail mask is sold in the form of a fabric base soaked in snail mucus extract. If you wish, you can prepare such a cosmetic product yourself.
At home, you should use mucus taken from a large Achatina snail. This species is often kept as pets.
- To prepare the product, just take ½ tbsp. secret. To dilute the mucus, take 2 tsp. boiled water. You need to stir until you get a homogeneous mass. Approximately 1 tsp is added to the composition. green clay. All components are stirred to a homogeneous consistency.
This cosmetic product should be used carefully. Given the high content of active compounds, an allergic reaction is possible. You can apply the mask to your face only after performing a skin test on a small area. People prone to allergic reactions should consult a dermatologist to eliminate negative consequences.
Mizon All in One
The product dries the skin a little, so it is recommended to first apply a moisturizer to the skin and let it absorb. The cream should not be rubbed into the skin, like similar cosmetics, but distributed using tapping movements.
This composition is produced in Korea and is actively sold in many countries around the world. Used as a care product, eliminates acne, comedones, and age spots. Buyers like this product for its light consistency and subtle pleasant aroma.
The cream goes on sale in a 75 ml jar, which costs $12. You can purchase it at any cosmetics store or online.
Missha Super Aqua
The product, produced in South Korea, spreads well over the skin and is absorbed into it. It does not dry out or tighten the face. The cream is created for use during the care of aging skin. The main distinguishing qualities are a pleasant and light aroma, as well as the absence of greasy marks after absorption.
You can buy a cream with snail mucus extract in a 47 ml bottle for about $20. The product can be found in some pharmacies, but this is very rare, so it is best to buy in specialized stores.
Getting rid of wrinkles and skin problems with snails
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Snail therapy is a powerful weapon in the fight against skin problems
The world of cosmetology never ceases to amaze with new products, unusual and sometimes even exotic procedures. We are talking about snail massage, which has proven to be an extremely effective means of nourishing, moisturizing, healing and rejuvenating the skin. The non-standard method of facial care was first tested in beauty salons in Asia and Europe, and due to its high efficiency, it almost immediately gained great popularity in different countries.
How did the idea of using snails in cosmetology come about?
The miraculous power of mucus produced by snails was known in ancient times. So, even ancient healers used it in recipes for healing ointments. Modern scientists paid attention to the positive effects of snail secretion due to its high content of useful substances in the 80s and 90s of the 20th century.
There is even a legend that the reason for conducting serious research was the surprisingly healthy and beautiful skin of the hands of workers at snail farms in South America, who supplied European restaurants with a delicious product. Having daily contact with mollusks, they also noted the rapid healing of abrasions and cuts, the absence of dryness and irritation. Whether this is true or not, and what really prompted researchers to address this issue, one can only guess. Nevertheless, cosmetics manufacturers became interested in the scientific publications that appeared.
For many years, Korea was the leader in this area. Today, cosmetic brands from different countries produce a series of skin care products containing snail mucus extract. At the same time, beauty experts claim that massage with shellfish has a more beneficial effect.
What snails do cosmetologists use?
The value of facial massage with snails lies in the amazing feature of these living creatures: when moving along a vertical or horizontal surface (the speed is approximately 9 cm per minute), they secrete mucus, which reduces friction. Two types of mollusks are used in cosmetology:
- grape snails - inhabitants of the southern regions with temperate and subtropical climates, with the onset of cold weather they fall into suspended animation;
- Achatina snails (African) - native to countries with a tropical climate, they are larger in size (the average shell length is from 5 to 10 cm or more).
It is believed that giant Achatina, due to its size and, accordingly, a larger amount of secretion, copes better with the function of snails for the face .
What is the effect on the skin
Snails can be used not only on the face, but also on other areas of the body (neck, décolleté, arms, etc.). The popularity of the cosmetic procedure is due to its high level of effectiveness. Thus, in particular, the following dermatological and age-related problems are solved:
- wrinkles and sagging are eliminated;
- tone is evened out;
- stretch marks and scars disappear;
- abrasions and cuts heal;
- swelling and inflammation are relieved.
At the same time, cosmetologists note that it is on the face that the rejuvenating and general tonic effect of snail secretion is most obvious. After all, the skin here is most sensitive to procedures. Perhaps that is why among beauty experts, miraculous mollusks have long been called “ face snails .”
What is included in snail secretion?
The mucus secreted by snails has a rejuvenating, regenerating and antibacterial effect. This extraordinary effect is achieved thanks to the valuable substances that make up the secretion. These include:
- Allantoin is an active antioxidant that destroys free radicals, the harmful effects of which lead to cell destruction. It is perfectly absorbed into the skin, superior to its synthetic counterparts contained in anti-aging creams.
- Collagen and elastin are the main structural proteins, deservedly called the “framework” of the skin. Responsible for elasticity, firmness and freshness. The lack of these elements leads to the appearance of signs of aging.
- Peptides are protein molecules consisting of amino acid residues that easily penetrate the skin and carry out powerful rejuvenation by regulating the basic biochemical processes in cells.
- Lectins and glycolic acid - cleanse the skin, eliminate dead particles of the epidermis, make the face smoother and more radiant, and fight wrinkles. Among other things, they protect well from the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation.
- Vitamins A, B, C and E are essential for prolonging youth and beauty.
Once on the skin, the snail secretion, which is a gel-like mass, is quickly absorbed, leaving a thin, slightly tightening film. It is washed off with water after the procedure is completed.
Benefits of snail therapy
Many years of practice have shown that the use of snails in facial skin care is complex, and this is the main “plus” of the procedure. Delicate, effective and absolutely harmless massage with healing shellfish can serve as a worthy alternative to a number of manipulations, such as:
- lifting;
- rejuvenation;
- whitening;
- cleansing and peeling;
- treatment of acne and pimples.
After the procedure, the skin becomes softer and more hydrated. The oval of the face is tightened, sagging is eliminated, wrinkles are smoothed out. Scars, scars and age spots become less noticeable. Pores are cleansed, dead skin cells are eliminated, the skin “breathes” more easily, and takes on a healthy and vibrant appearance. It is not surprising that many clients of beauty salons leave rave reviews after a facial snail .
What are the possible contraindications?
Snail mucus is a natural substance that does not contain harmful toxins and allergens, ideal for all skin types, including sensitive ones. However, do not forget about possible individual intolerance. Before starting the procedure, it is recommended to undergo a standard allergy test: just place the snail on your wrist for 1 - 2 minutes and observe the skin reaction for 20 - 30 minutes. If there is no redness or itching, you can safely proceed to snail massage.
"Disadvantages" of the procedure
One of the disadvantages of the procedure may be disgust towards snails. A feeling of disgust towards shellfish is a fairly common situation among women. The very thought of slugs crawling over the body causes some impressionable people to feel close to hysteria. In this case, you should choose a more mental-friendly way to maintain the beauty and youth of your skin.
Another “minus” of the procedure is its high cost. In beauty salons, snail massage is not cheap, and going through several sessions to achieve a lasting result costs a lot of money. One solution to the problem is to keep snails at home as unpretentious pets that bring great benefits. Shellfish do not require large financial outlays to maintain, and caring for them is very simple.
How to care for snails at home
African Achatina snails are sold in pet stores and are very inexpensive. It is recommended to purchase at least two pieces. The main thing is to follow the basic rules for caring for shellfish, which include:
- the best “home” for snails is a glass container with a lid and a hole for ventilation;
- It is recommended to lay a layer of peat on the bottom of the terrarium, which must be renewed every 3 to 4 months;
- the optimal temperature is from 250 to 300;
- the walls of the terrarium, the soil and the snails themselves should be sprayed with water daily to maintain a sufficient level of humidity;
- food - fruits, vegetables, herbs, it is also important to add powdered eggshells, rich in calcium and necessary for the formation of the shell, to the diet.
- There should be a container with fresh water in the terrarium.
In general, snails are very unpretentious and rarely get sick.
How to carry out the procedure correctly
Massage with snails is not particularly difficult and does not require special skills. However, it is important to consider some features of the procedure:
- the face must be prepared, cleaned of makeup using any cosmetics without a strong odor;
- for greater effectiveness, you can take a steam bath to help open the pores, and then wipe your face dry with a towel;
- It is recommended to lubricate the cleansed face with milk, cream or cucumber juice, which, on the one hand, will provide additional nutrition to the skin, and on the other, will force the snail to be more mobile and, accordingly, will contribute to the secretion of more mucus;
- before placing the snail on your face, it is important to rinse the body and shell of the mollusk with regular warm water;
- the snail should be fed approximately 40 minutes before the procedure;
- massage duration – from 15 to 20 minutes;
- Having removed the snail, you need to spread the secreted mucus over all areas of the face with your finger, and leave the resulting “gel mask” on the skin for 15 – 20 minutes;
- The final stage of the procedure is that the snail mucus is washed off with warm water, and a moisturizer is applied to the skin.
A miraculous snail massage can be performed 1 – 2 times a week. The recommended course is from 10 to 15 sessions. Afterwards, you need to take a break for 2 – 3 months so that the addictive effect does not occur. As reviews from those who use snails for the face show, the effect of improving skin condition becomes obvious after the first procedures.
Limoni Snail Repair
An ideal composition for the care of sensitive and dry skin types. Snail mucus in the face cream is 60 percent. It is used to eliminate age spots and prevent aging.
The consistency of the product cannot be called homogeneous. It is quite unique, so to get a positive effect, the composition must not be rubbed into the pores, but driven in.
The product will cost customers $25 for a small 75 ml bottle. At this price you can order it online, but if you buy it in stores in the city you will have to pay a couple of dollars more.
Achatina snails in massage practice
Achatina is used not only in cosmetology, but also in massage practice. The benefits and harms of shellfish mucus have been studied many times; its valuable properties are truly amazing. Regular procedures strengthen blood vessels and increase blood microcirculation.
Before the massage, you should definitely take a bath. Do not use soap products. After the water procedure, wipe your body dry.
Before the procedure, the snail also needs to be rinsed with running warm water. Don't worry if you decide to undergo the procedure for the first time. The mollusk will definitely not be afraid, but the same cannot be said about you.
Results of the therapy:
- pore size decreases;
- skin tone brightens;
- small creases and wrinkles disappear;
- dryness, peeling and irritation on the skin go away;
- bruises and bags under the eyes resolve;
- the tone, smoothness and elasticity of the epidermis increases.
Carry out a similar procedure no more than 3 times every 7 days. The duration of therapy should not exceed a quarter of an hour.
Elicina Cream
The Chilean-made product is a representative of the product, which was one of the first to contain snail secretion. It works great against scars of varying depths, age spots, and dermatitis. If desired, the cream can be used as a base for BB cream.
One 40 ml bottle costs only $30. This price is quite acceptable for buyers, because the product is actually effective.