ANSWERS: 1
  • <h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Promising Claims

    Helix aspersa is the common brown garden snail. Its viscous, slippery secretions keep the snail's delicate skin safe from damage from its own shell and outside dangers. Manufacturers and customer testimonials say that a cream made from these slime secretions can heal acne, wrinkles, scars and even small cuts. "Helix aspersa extract is a natural, safe and effective alternative treatment in open wound management of partial thickness burns in adults," according a study published in 2009 in the Journal of Dermatological Treatments.

    On the Other: Unproven Claims

    Although some research suggests that snail secretions have healing properties, no valid studies determine its effectiveness as a cosmetic, according to The Beauty Brains. In addition, other ingredients in commercial snail creams, such as mineral oil and cetyl alcohol, may irritate some skin types.

    Bottom Line

    Certain snail cream products might rejuvenate, repair and moisturize skin through components such as hyaluronic acid, antimicrobial peptides and zinc. Research on the effectiveness of such products on human skin has been inconclusive.

    Source:

    The Beauty Brains Web Site: Are Snail Creams Good For Your Skin?

    Journal of Dermatological Treatment: The Efficacy of Helix Aspersa Muller Extract in the Healing of Partial Thickness Burns

    Acne Resource Center Web Site: Cosmetics and Acne

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