The 10 Best Snail Creams
This wiki has been updated 23 times since it was first published in June of 2018. If you’re unfamiliar with the practice, the idea of putting snail goo on your face may seem a little strange, if not downright disgusting. But once you learn how effective it is at replenishing moisture, reducing dark spots, fading scars, and even healing wounds, you'll want to pick up one of these creams. Our list includes formulas for all skin types, from dry to oily, and everything in between. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
Editor's Notes
September 18, 2019:
While the thought of smearing snail mucin on your face sounds pretty gross, it's become a star ingredient in creams, serums, and sheet masks for good reason. It contains allantoin, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid, which can help promote faster healing, minimize scarring, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin's texture and tone. It's also naturally antibacterial, making it great for acne-prone skin.
When choosing any skincare product, you should consider your skin type and whether you want to use it in the morning, evening, or both. If you have oily skin or want a snail cream for daytime use, you may want to opt for a lighter formula, like Mizon All In One. It dries quickly to a completely matte finish and wears very well under makeup, sunscreen, and other moisturizers. A cross between a gel and a cream, CosRX Advanced is suitable for most skin types, and it contains 92% snail mucin for long-lasting hydration. It's also fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin.
If your skin tends to be more dry or you're looking for a heavier cream to use at night, Elensilia Original Repair Cream can provide up to 100 hours of moisture. It has a silky texture, but is still thick enough to seal in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. It's also great for soothing and repairing after chemical peels or while using Tretinoin or other harsh or drying treatments. Tonymoly Timeless is somewhat pricey, but it's hydrating, nourishing, and uses fermented snail extract, which produces results faster for some users.