Efficacy and safety of a facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glaba root extract in the treatment of maskne: A randomized placebo‐controlled study

Abstract

Introduction During the ongoing COVID‐19 outbreak, face mask use has increased and became a part of our daily lives. While wearing, prolonged contact time and microenvironmental change profoundly lead to an acne flare‐up, defined as “maskne.” Aims We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glaba root extract combination serum (SCGS) in treating the maskne. Methods This was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial study. This study enrolled 66 participants with mild‐to‐moderate maskne. The SCGS and placebo were randomly assigned for participants to use twice daily for 12 weeks. Percentage change of acne lesion count, acne severity by Investigator Global Evaluation Acne (IGEA), sebum levels, corneometry levels, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema score by Visia®, and adverse events were evaluated 4‐weekly at baseline to Week 12. At Week 12, all participants evaluated their satisfaction scores using a 10‐point visual analog scale (VAS). Results In the mask‐covered area, the percent reduction in inflammatory acne lesions from the treatment group was significantly greater than the placebo group at all time points (coefficient of percentage change of inflammatory lesions = −33.89 [95% CI −65.24, −2.53]; p = 0.03). Also, a subgroup analysis with participants using concurrent acne treatments revealed similar results (12 participants, coefficient = −50.30 [95% −88.65, −11.95]; p = 0.01). However, there were no significant differences in non‐inflammatory lesions, all skin biophysics, and VAS between groups. Adverse events were mild and occurred in a few cases in both groups. Conclusions The SCGS could significantly improve inflammatory acne lesions and had a favorable tolerability profile, suggesting its role as an adjunctive treatment in maskne.

Snail extract for skin: A review of uses, projections, and limitations

“…After 12 weeks, there was a greater percent reduction in inflammatory acne lesions in the treatment group though no changes in erythema score, noninflammatory lesions, and sebum levels were noted. 63 Exfoliative acids found in snail mucin, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, can also help to unclog pores and reduce the sebum production involved in acne pathogenesis. 64…”

“…The creation of combination serum consisting of snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis , and Glycyrrhiza glaba root extract was tested on patients with mild‐to‐moderate “maskne”, the term for acne induced by wearing masks. After 12 weeks, there was a greater percent reduction in inflammatory acne lesions in the treatment group though no changes in erythema score, noninflammatory lesions, and sebum levels were noted 63 . Exfoliative acids found in snail mucin, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, can also help to unclog pores and reduce the sebum production involved in acne pathogenesis 64 …”

The potential therapeutic applications and mechanisms of action of Cryptomphalus aspersa (snail) extracts in dermatology and wound healing

“…Firstly, Cryptomphalus aspersa extracts exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties, which play a crucial role in attenuating the inflammatory response associated with atopic dermatitis. By modulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and signaling pathways, snail extracts help mitigate the immune-mediated inflammation observed in atopic dermatitis lesions, thereby alleviating symptoms such as erythema and pruritus [4]. Moreover, snail extracts have been shown to enhance skin barrier function, which is compromised in individuals with atopic dermatitis.…”

“…Moreover, snail extracts have been shown to enhance skin barrier function, which is compromised in individuals with atopic dermatitis. By reinforcing the stratum corneum and promoting the synthesis of key barrier components such as ceramides and filaggrin, snail extracts help restore skin integrity and prevent transepidermal water loss, thereby reducing dryness and improving overall skin health [4]. Furthermore, the moisturizing properties of snail extracts contribute to their therapeutic efficacy in atopic dermatitis management.…”

“…Even problems like dark spots and uneven skin tone might meet their match with snail extracts. Studies suggest that these extracts can stop the production of excess pigment in the skin, which means fewer spots and a more even complexion [4]. But it's not just about making our skin look better -snail extracts could also help it heal faster.…”