COSRX Snail Mucin skincare review: I tried 5 products from the K-beauty brand
It's been praised all over social media for its super-hydrating properties, so I knew I had to review COSRX snail mucin to see the results for myself.
COSRX Snail Mucin Skincare at Lookfantastic
When I visited Seoul last year, I was struck by the fact that the brand's bestselling products champion one key ingredient: snail mucin.
'It's a nutrient-rich byproduct compatible with all skin types that can help improve a damaged skin barrier by offering deep hydration,' says Julia Marinkovich, the UK COSRX representative.
'This can help contribute to a plumper and more glowing complexion, and there's also research to support the claim that snail secretion filtrate can promote wound healing and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.'
With this in mind, I decided to test the five most popular snail mucin products from the K-beauty brand, including the hero Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, to see if I could heal my dry and sensitive skin.
So read on to find out what happened when I tested COSRX.
Pros
Intensely moisturising
Non-irritating
Repairs the skin's barrier
Cons
Not suitable for shellfish allergy
Not vegan
Sticky texture
Overall Rating: 4/5
How I tested COSRX Snail Mucin Skincare
I have combination skin that's on the drier side with an oily T-zone.
My skin has also become sensitised over the years due to over-exfoliation and testing out hundreds of beauty products.
I swapped my current skincare essentials with five COSRX products and tested them for over a month, every morning and night.
As I didn't try out a cleanser or SPF from the brand, I used existing products in conjunction with the tested products.
COSRX Snail Mucin Skincare review: Quickfire Q&A
How much is COSRX? The cheapest item in the COSRX range is the £5.99 COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches. The most expensive item is the COSRX Full Fit Propolis Light Ampoule serum, which costs £33.99.
Who's it best for? While suitable for all skin types, the range is particularly good for anyone with a damaged skin barrier who wants to restore their complexion.
What we loved: I immediately felt a difference using a number of the products. My skin instantly felt hydrated and moisturised for longer thanks to innovative ingredients that really work. Affordability is another positive.
What we didn't: Whilst the products work really well together, those who like to mix-and-match brands may find that thicker formulas don't sit as well on top of certain products in the range.
COSRX Snail Mucin Skincare review: The Nitty Gritty
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
BUY HERE
Spoiler alert: Snail 96 Power Essence is well worth the hype.
While it's labelled as an essence, I think it's better to categorise this as a serum as its viscous texture is similar to Hyaluronic Acid serums, but is less watery in texture, which makes applying it much easier.
The trick to getting the most hydration out of it is to apply it on damp skin, so after cleansing, I spritz a facial spray over my face and wait a few seconds before applying the essence.
A little goes a long way; you only need one to two pumps to cover the entire face.
It's got a super-high concentration of snail mucin, and I've noticed almost immediate effects since using this; my skin feels instantly hydrated and stays moisturised for longer throughout the day.
Moreover, I'm impressed with how it's managed to soothe my skin's barrier and even take down some redness I have.
Personally, I prefer using this over Hyaluronic Acid as it keeps my skin hydrated for longer, and the texture works for my dry skin.
However, oilier skin types may find it too heavy, and I used less on my forehead than on my cheeks.
It does take a bit of work to figure out how to layer it.
While it worked perfectly with its snail cream and light moisturisers, it didn't absorb as well when I layered an E45 face cream over it, as it was too occlusive.
But it's been over a month since I started using this essence, and it's become part of my daily routine, and when I finish this bottle, I'm immediately getting another one.
Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream
COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream, £30.99 from Lookfantastic
BUY HERE
Pros: Gives a glowy finish, hydrating, soothes dryness and redness, works under make-up
Cons: Sticky texture, not moisturising enough for dry skin, messy application
Rating: 3.5 / 5
If you want glass skin immediately, then the all-in-one snail cream will deliver just that.
Similar to the essence, this cream is infused with a whopping 92% of snail mucin, and when you open the jar, it looks exactly like slime.
I didn't mind the look of it too much, but I did find that it's a bit messy to use.
It's super sticky to the touch, which makes it tricky to extract the right amount, so you'll want to start small and then apply more if needed.
But it's amazing value for money, as only a small amount is needed to cover your entire face.
Surprisingly, when I massaged it on, it didn't feel greasy at all and left my skin with a glossy sheen, almost filter-like, and I absolutely loved the look it gave.
It also works well under make-up, but make sure you layer it with more cream-based products, as opposed to powder, to emphasise the glow.
Despite the glowy look, I actually found that it wasn't moisturising enough to keep my dry skin hydrated for long periods, and I had to apply an emollient cream over the drier parts of my face.
I've since moved this to my nighttime routine as it's slightly too fussy for me to use in the daytime, and I prefer using a richer cream to really lock in that moisture.
mouth and eye area and press the remaining residue in with fingers.
COSRX Master Pimple Patch
BUY HERE
Even though COSRX is known primarily for its snail mucin products, its pimple patches are one of its bestsellers.
Having used these patches in the past, I was excited to test out a fresh pack of them as I loved them so much on my first go.
Happily, these didn't disappoint. They were great for targeting spots and have a transparent look, so they look invisible on.
They're also comfortable to wear, and I liked wearing the stickers to bed or when I would be working from home.
They are a bit fiddly at first as you can only apply them onto dry skin, so it's best to wait until after your skincare products have been absorbed before putting them on.
My partner has acne-prone skin and enjoys using the pimple patches as they help prevent dirt from touching the spot and allow the skin to properly heal.
The patches were effective in reducing any redness and excess oil and definitely minimised the appearance of spots.
Plus, you can get up to 90 in a pack, which is excellent value for money.
Size: 36-90 pack Skin type: All How to Apply: Apply gently with the sticky side down. Leave on overnight.
AHA / BHA Exfoliating Facial Treatment
AHA / BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner, £21.99 from Lookfantastic
BUY HERE
Having over-exfoliated my skin in the past, I was a bit hesitant about using this COSRX treatment.
The AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner is an exfoliator wth an ingredient list that includes 0.1% glycolic acid (AHA) and 0.1% Betatine Salicylate (BHA), but since it's got a low concentration of both acids, it's gentle to use even on sensitive skin.
I was surprised to discover that it didn't irritate my skin and actually helped to clear my blackheads, particularly on my nose.
Over time, it helped to slough away dead skin cells, leaving my skin more radiant, and when I layered the essence or an active ingredient on top of it, it didn't sting.
The instructions state that you should spray the exfoliator on a cotton pad and then swipe the pad across the face.
However, I found it easier to spray the product directly onto my face as the cotton pad wasted a lot of product, and I could target the exfoliator on areas of my face that needed it more, like my T-zone.
While you could use it every day, I prefer to use it once or twice a week, as I don't suffer from active breakouts, so that's why it became my least-used product of the ones I tested.
But if my skin breaks out, this will be the first product I'll be reaching for.
Retinol 0.5% Oil
COSRX Retinol 0.5 Oil, £29.99
BUY HERE
I love using the COSRX retinol in my skincare routine as its anti-inflammatory properties really benefit my skin.
In the Cosrx product, there is quite a low concentration of retinol, making it best for beginners as opposed to regular retinol users or those looking for a low dosage, but I love its formula.
More similar to an oil, it feels nourishing thanks to the blend of Vitamin E and Squalane, and it didn't dry my skin out.
It also pairs well when layered over the essence and under both thicker and lighter moisturisers.
It has an earthy scent which isn't too pleasant, but it does dissipate.
It's too early to truly tell the difference, as you need at least three to six months to see whether it's made a real impact, but I've had fewer blemishes and redness since using it without having to go through purging.
Oiler skin types may prefer a retinol cream, but I now use this every evening as I love how soothing it feels.
After using COSRX for over a month, I'm a snail mucin convert. I've really noticed that both the essence and the cream helped to soothe a lot of redness that I experience from dry weather and also keep my skin hydrated.
Not to mention, it creates a glass-skin-like effect on your face that's pretty perfect for glowy skin lovers.
While it's not vegan, COSRX is cruelty-free, and a good option if you've been let down or have suffered from sensitivities to Hyaluronic Acid.
Most of the products I tried from COSRX are geared towards drier skin, but I believe every skin type can benefit from them.
Particular highlights for me were the Advanced Snail Mucin Essence and the retinol; those two are going to become staples in my skincare routine.
What is snail mucin and is it good for the skin?
It might sound like something out of a horror film, but snail mucin (aka snail slime) is the gooey stuff snails naturally secrete to protect themselves.
In skincare, it's filtered, purified, and packed into serums and creams thanks to its barrier-boosting and glow-enhancing properties.
Whether you're dry, oily or somewhere in between, snail mucin can boost moisture, repair damage and leave your skin looking bouncier than ever before.
It's gentle too, so even sensitive types can get in on the action.
What are the benefits of snail mucin?
Snail mucin is rich in hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, peptides and antioxidants, meaning it helps plump the skin, fade acne scars, smooth texture and calm inflammation.
Hydration, healing, glow: it does the lot. Think of it as your skin's new overachieving best friend.
It is best to apply snail mucin after cleansing and toning, but before your heavier creams or oils.
Pat a few drops into damp skin, let it soak in, then carry on with your routine.
Use morning or night, or both if you're feeling fancy.
Is snail mucin good for acne?
Snail mucin is GREAT for acne. It helps calm redness, fade leftover marks and keep your moisture barrier strong (which is key when dealing with breakouts).
It won't clear your spots overnight, but it's a solid add-on in your anti-acne arsenal.
Is Cosrx cruelty-free?
Yes! Despite the snail connection, Cosrx does not test on animals, and the mucin is collected from happy, stress-free snails in a lab, with no squishing involved.
Where can I buy COSRX in the UK?
Originally from South Korea, COSRX is now available globally, with plenty of beauty retailers stocking it in the UK.
Here's where you can shop the K-beauty brand.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Reuters
26 minutes ago
- Reuters
India File: The new gold rush for weight-loss drugs
(This was originally published in the India File newsletter, which is issued every Tuesday. Sign up here to get the latest news from India and how it matters to the world.) India has joined the global rush for weight-loss drugs as Novo Nordisk launched its popular Wegovy last week in the world's most populous country, just months after the arrival of rival Eli Lilly's Mounjaro. India's pharmaceutical powerhouses are also gearing up to launch generic versions of these drugs, putting it squarely on the map of what could become a $150 billion global market within the next 10 years. That's our focus this week. And, after a bountiful monsoon brought a bumper rice harvest, India is diverting record volumes to ethanol production to rein in inventories. Scroll down for more on that. From healthcare to esports, Asia's industries are evolving fast. Register, opens new tab to watch the live broadcast of the #ReutersNEXTAsia, opens new tab summit on July 9 to see how innovation is reshaping the region. ** China's rare earths are flowing again, but not freely ** Trump complains about US-Japan trade talks as Bessent warns of higher tariffs ** Thai Constitutional Court to weigh petition seeking PM's dismissal ** China's factory activity returns to growth in June, Caixin PMI shows India looks poised to become the next big battleground in the booming market for weight-loss drugs, its strong economic growth and rapidly rising rates of obesity drawing the attention of both global pharmaceutical giants and home-grown generics makers. Denmark's Novo Nordisk last week began selling its blockbuster drug Wegovy in India while competitor Eli Lilly introduced an easy-to-use version of its Mounjaro, in what Jefferies predicts could soon grow into a $1 billion market. That's still a small fraction of the worldwide market, worth $24 billion last year according to IQVIA, while various forecasts indicate it could reach $150 billion early in the next decade. Many forecasts, moreover, have been raised sharply over the past year, and both analysts and industry executives have marked India and other big emerging markets as an essential driver of that growth. India lags only China in the number of adults with diabetes and its obesity rates are on the rise. A government survey last year noted that rising incomes and urbanisation have boosted consumption of processed food and beverages. "Driven by unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and environmental factors, obesity is rising rapidly, impacting both urban and rural populations," Nadim Anwer, pharmaceuticals analyst at data and analytics firm GlobalData, wrote in a report last month. "This trend is driving market growth," Anwer said. A government health survey conducted from 2019 to 2021 found nearly one in four Indian adults was overweight or obese. Just five years earlier that figure was one in five. Looking at obesity alone, the World Obesity Federation estimated the rate among Indian adults at 8% in 2023, well below 22% in the U.S. But India's population is four times larger, and its adult obesity rate is forecast to keep rising to 11% by 2035. This has drawn the attention not just of overseas majors like Novo and Lilly. Indian pharmaceutical heavyweights such as Sun Pharma, Cipla, Dr. Reddy's, Lupin and Biocon are preparing to launch cheaper generic drugs once semaglutide, the active compound in Wegovy, goes off-patent in 2026. Analysts at Jefferies said these big drugmakers would be particularly well-placed to benefit, given the complexity of manufacturing the drugs. Read here for details on firms looking to enter this segment. But these weight-loss drugs aren't going cheap - at least for now. Wegovy and Mounjaro are priced between 17,000 rupees and 26,000 rupees a month, putting them out of reach for most Indians without insurance or deep pockets. That hasn't dimmed enthusiasm among India's burgeoning urban middle class. Doctors across the country reported a surge in patient enquiries, mirroring the global frenzy, and Lilly said the response has been positive in India. While the entry of generics is likely to drive costs down eventually, other question marks hang over these drugs. New research has shown that they have a smaller impact in real life than in trials, the Reuters Health Rounds newsletter noted in its June edition. You can sign up for that newsletter here. Moreover, the World Health Organization said late last year that, while the drugs carry "the possibility of an end to the obesity pandemic", they also risk leaving behind those without access to proper healthcare and could overshadow other efforts to improve health. The WHO is due to release a report soon that would nevertheless back the use of such drugs for adults globally. Read here for that exclusive report. What do you think about the future of weight-loss drugs in India? Could it become a top world market - and manufacturer - for the pharmaceutical industry's latest blockbuster? Write to me at opens new tab. India is diverting record volumes of rice to ethanol production as it struggles with unprecedented inventories of the grain, which are likely to swell further with the arrival of the new harvest. India in March lifted the last of its rice export restrictions, which were adopted two years ago in response to poor rains. Now, the world's No.3 oil importer and consumer of petroleum products wants to harness that bumper harvest to meet its growing energy needs. The government has set a target to increase the proportion of gasoline blended with ethanol to 20% by 2025-26. It nearly hit that target in May, reaching 19.8%, with help from surplus rice. Read this in-depth report by Reuters correspondent Rajendra Jadhav. The Dalai Lama will address a major Buddhist gathering this week ahead of his 90th birthday, as followers await clues about his succession that may end up provoking China. Beijing views the exiled Tibetan leader as a separatist and says it will appoint his successor, which the Dalai Lama rejects. He has previously said it is possible his reincarnation will be found outside China, perhaps in India. Discussions around reincarnation usually don't happen during a monk's lifetime but Tibet's chief state oracle, who is also in exile in India, has said Beijing's interference changed that. No longer just a matter of religious significance for the Dalai Lama's followers, the succession has taken on geopolitical significance for China, India and the United States. Reuters journalist Krishna N. Das explains the Dalai Lama's succession plans here.
The Independent
14 hours ago
- The Independent
Save 25% on Shiseido's suncare range, from sunscreen sticks to SPF lotions
Shiseido is one of the world's oldest beauty companies. Founded in 1872, it was the first Western-style pharmacy in Japan. Fast forward 150 years and the brand has just as much of a loyal following. Known for its commitment to clinical research, its product roster spans skincare and make-up, while its formulas tackle everything from wrinkles and dehydration to dark spots and firming. The brand is constantly innovating, particularly when it comes to sun care. Last year, Shiseido debuted its patented 'SynchroShieldRepair' technology which strengthens UV protection in its formulas against elements like water and heat. In practice, this means it automatically repairs sun protection that's damaged by friction or rubbing. Plus, its SPFs are made with 65 per cent skincare ingredients, specifically targeted for anti-ageing. Its a winning formula – the sunscreen stick has been praised for not leaving a white caste and sitting nicely under make-up, while the expert lotion is loved for its smoothing and plumping finish. Whether you're looking to stock up on Shiseido SPFs or try the range for the first time, the good news is that the beauty brand has launched a summer sale in time for your next holiday. With 25 per cent off sun care, these are the best SPF formulas to try from Shiseido. This cult sunscreen glides into to skin with an invisible finish, meaning there's no white caste or pasty feel. Described as lightweight and hydrating, the SPF is formulated with 68 per cent skincare ingredients for smoothing and plumping benefits. Strengthened by the brand's signature technology, it's designed to be heat and water-proof, giving you peace of mind when on holiday. This Shiseido SPF stick secured a spot in our round-up of the best sunscreen sticks, where it was dubbed the best formula for exercising in. As with the rest of the range, it's water- and sweat-resistant, making it perfect for everything from swimming to commuting in a heatwave. Helpfully, the twist-up stick has a wide shape for easy application but rounded edges for lips or ears. 'As it's completely transparent, there was no residue during testing,' our reviewer said. 'The SPF added a sheeny, weightless layer and left a slight dewy effect, which felt hydrating on dry skin.' This make-up and sun-protection hybrid is a hero addition to your summer beauty routine. The compact foundation boasts a matte finish for natural, medium coverage. Formulated to even the skin tone, smooth fine lines and mask pores, the powder has the added benefit of offering SPF30 UV protection. Equally, light application throughout the day can minimise shine and top up areas where necessary. Available in 10 shades, the powder contains hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. If you prefer glowy and bronzed coverage, try the Shiseido tanning compact. The formula is available in five bronzing shades to even out your skin tone, smooth pores and blur fine lines, leaving a golden finish that's perfect for summer. The foundation is perspiration, water and grease-resistant, while the skin-friendly formula contains plumping and soothing ingredients. Containing SPF10, it doesn't offer optimum sun protection, so make sure you layer with stronger sunscreens. Reduced by £10, now's your chance to try Shiseido's bestselling SPF50 cream which works to smooth and plump skin while protecting it from UV rays. Fans praise it for being lightweight and breathable, absorbing into skin quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Its efficaciousness is only strengthened by contact with heat and water, thanks to the brand's reinforcing technology.
The Sun
15 hours ago
- The Sun
My nose is permanently red after sunburn 5 years ago – strangers make comments but even doctors are baffled
JESSICA McGirr's nose has been left permanently red after getting sunburnt while on holiday in Tenerife over five years ago. "The redness has ruined my self-confidence and I now wear makeup every day to hide it,' the 24-year-old, who currently lives in New York, US, said. 6 6 6 "I get many comments from strangers asking me what's wrong with my nose or asking if I am sick," she added. The young woman from Ireland was on a boat trip on the Spanish island when she nodded off under the blazing sun without any sunscreen on. She spent around four hours exposed to strong UV rays and when she woke up burnt all over and with a bright red nose. The initial marks took about a week to go down. But two weeks later, her nose was still red and sore. 'The skin on my nose was very textured and would often bleed and scab," the advert operator said. 'For the first three years after the burn, my nose was very inflamed, "It is more calm at the moment," she said. "It's still very red but the texture is smoother.' Sunburn can cause lasting damage to the skin, including premature aging, the development of precancerous lesions, and a significantly increased risk of skin cancer. These harmful effects may not appear immediately and can take years, or even decades, to manifest. Jessica has seen three different doctors about her nose but no one has been able to help her. HSE issue skin cancer warning as Ireland set to bask in high temperatures this weekend 'No diagnosis has been made which is very frustrating because I wish I knew why this happened and if there could be a cure," she said. At first, she was prescribed some creams and treatments for acne. 'Very let down' When they didn't work, she was recommended to go to a skin clinic and get laser, which is sometimes used to help even out skin pigmentation. She said: "I got four sessions of intense pulsed light therapy but saw no results. 'I've had visual skin evaluations and blood tests but no doctor ever gave me a diagnosis. 'They denied it being rosacea due to it only being on my nose and it staying consistently red.' Jessica claims she hasn't been treated seriously and some doctors have simply told her to avoid spicy foods. She said: 'I feel very let down by the healthcare system at home as no doctor ever seemed to care or wanted to refer me to a specialist. 6 6 6 'I now wear factor 50 sunscreen every day.' She would like to seek further help, but she's concerned it could end up being a waste of money. 'If I knew a treatment would work, I would love to try it," she added. How to apply sun cream Dr Karishma Hemmady, consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics, says: "I recommend reapplying every two hours as a minimum, as we tend to apply it much more sparingly than is done during lab testing – so a SPF 30 will offer you only SPF 15 in most cases." But make sure to reapply as sun cream protection fades over the day. Dr Hermmady says: "Exposure to water will also alter the protection, even if your product is water resistant, so if you're swimming, perspiring and towel drying, or any other vigorous or abrasive activity, make sure you re-apply. "Up to 85 per cent of a product can be removed by towel drying." Being unprotected will also increase the likelihood of suffering with sunburn which could also lead to heatstroke. This is particularly dangerous and potentially fatal in young children, the elderly and people with health conditions. Dr Hemmady says: "Sunburn draws fluid to the skin surface and away from the rest of the body causing dehydration. "In order to achieve the sun protection factor on the label, a fingertip-sized squirt should cover an area of skin the size of a hand. "So, a couple of squirts should be sufficient to adequately protect the face and about one tablespoon worth needs to be applied to each body part. "This is often a lot more than people think, so it is worth measuring this for a few applications to get a feel for how much is needed. "Applying less will reduce the protection to a higher degree than is proportionate – for example, only applying half the required amount can actually reduce the protection by as much as two thirds."
