TikTokers are raving about how snail mucin, also known as slimy snail secretions, is leaving their face moisturised, radiant, and wrinkle-free even though the strange skincare component is concerning experts.

The snail mucin “has gained popularity in skin care due to its composition of proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans and hyaluronic acid — all of which are beneficial for the skin,” Dr Yoram Harth, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of MDacne, told NBC news this week.

On TikTok, videos with snail mucin have amassed 1.3 billion views overall. Some consumers of a certain product, COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence serum, report feeling really happy.

“Lightweight gel texture (tad slimy),” one TikToker wrote in December on a review clip. “Absorbs really well, leaves dewy finish, great for skin hydration.”

The serum from Korean beauty company COSRX claims to provide “intense hydration” since it contains sodium hyaluronate, a kind of hyaluronic acid, and snail secretion filtrate (96.3%), according to New York Post.

“Thanks to the hyaluronic acid in the mucin, it has moisturising properties that support the skin barrier and help lock in moisture,” COSRX’s UK representative, Julia Marinkovich, told the Sun this week.

“The glycolic acid helps to stimulate collagen production that not only helps diminish fine lines and wrinkles, but it also helps to give your complexion a radiant, youthful glow,” she added.

The $38.38 fluid-ounce product ($25) is intended to be applied to your face using your fingertips following cleaning and toning regimen but before moisturising.

Despite its increased popularity because of TikTok, using the slimy benefits of snail mucin is not a novel idea.

Not everyone may benefit from this trend, particularly if they have a rare allergy to snails.

On TikTok, some people have posted stories about breaking out in pimples. A medical aesthetician has cautioned against using snail slime serums on skin that is prone to acne and pimples.