I know this product has a cult following, but I honestly don’t understand what the fuss is about.

I tried the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence for three weeks straight, morning and night. I was looking for something that would help repair my moisture barrier and calm irritation, since my skin was going through a dry, sensitive patch.

Unfortunately, this didn’t deliver.

The texture was immediately off-putting to me — thick, stringy, and sticky enough that layering felt awkward. Even when I applied the thinnest amount and gave it time to sink in, it left a film that made my next step (moisturizer) pill more often than not.

For context, I was using this in a routine that otherwise worked well for me:

• Toner: Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner

• Moisturizer: Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream

• SPF: Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen

Once I added the snail essence, I noticed breakouts forming around my jawline — not cystic, but small under-the-skin bumps that didn’t go away until I stopped using it. No other changes in routine. The cause was clear.

The most frustrating part is that I didn’t see any benefit while using it. My hydration levels didn’t improve, redness stayed the same, and my skin texture was flat. It just… sat there.

To be fair, I don’t think this is a “bad” product — just one that’s overhyped and underperforming, at least for my skin.

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What I liked better instead:

If you’re looking for something with a similar glide-y texture, but with visible skin benefits, here are a few products that actually worked for me:

• Beauty of Joseon Revive Serum (Ginseng + Snail):

Similar mucin base, but with added antioxidant-rich ginseng. Much better absorption, and I actually noticed a brighter, more even skin tone after 2 weeks.

• I’m From Ginseng Serum:

No snail, but has the same cushiony texture. Offers calming + nourishing effects with a more refined finish. My redness faded, and skin felt more elastic.

• Dr.Ceuracle Vegan Kombucha Tea Essence:

Thinner in texture, but similarly nourishing. Gave my skin a bounce and glow within days — perfect for rebuilding barrier without clogging.

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At the end of the day, I think COSRX’s snail essence is just too safe. It might be a decent starter product for someone with zero sensitivities or extremely dry skin, but for those of us with combo or acne-prone skin looking for actual change, there are better options out there.

This one’s off my shelf for good.