Snail Mucus
You know that gross goopy stuff that snails leave as they slide along? Well someone figured that that would be the perfect substance to put on your face. The weirdest part? They were right! This all happened because snail handlers (we know, weird job title) found that their hands felt softer after the little critters slid over them. So, some beauty chemists figured out how to include it in moisturizers and other skincare.
Apparently, it’s got protective and moisturizing qualities thanks to all the antioxidants. It’s been known to help with wrinkles, fine lines, and dry skin. Kind of gross, but pretty cool.
Bee Venom
Surprisingly, this curious ingredient has been used in skincare for centuries. The venom that bees excrete through their stinger has the power to hurt (a lot) or even endanger some people fatally. However, work into some cream, and it’s the perfect pick-me-up for tired skin.
Research shows that it is especially good at calming inflammation and redness, thanks to something about enzymes (we’re not doctors). Plenty of skincare brands have incorporated bee venom into their products, and the best part is that no bees have to be sacrificed for your skincare.
Aztec Clay
Simply put, this is aged volcanic ash. More complexly put, Aztec clay masks are made from bentonite clay, a very fine, soft powder that forms a paste when mixed with water. This stuff has been around for centuries, and it’s recently gained traction in the facemask world.
Aztec clay masks are supposed to do wonders for those with dry or oily skin, and research suggests that it even works for acne. Bentonite clay has been used in other medical ways, and there are a ton of studies available online if you want to read about just how useful volcanic ash can be!
Would You Put These On Your Face?
While these might sound scary, and some even downright dangerous, these products have been used across the world for centuries. While science and beauty have come a long way, chemists agree that these are still effective in treating a range of skin issues. Who knew that nature had built-in skincare?