TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - While they are commonly seen as pests, slimy snail have been used in the cosmetic industry in the past one year for skin therapy agent. The slime produced by snails are believed to be rich in proteins good for skin.

Lecturer and snail researcher from the Biology Education Faculty of the 17 August Banyuwangi, Susintowati revealed in her research entitled ‘Mengenal dan Bersahabat dengan Siput’ (Getting Upclose With Snails) that the Gastropod animal produces two types of mucus, for lubrication and adhesives.

Both mucus, which are produced by special cells under the snail’s tummy, are rich of proteins, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant that promote formation of collagen, elastin and other skin components.

“Water content in the mucus can reach up to 96 to 97 percent,” Susintowati told Tempo on Friday, January 15.

It is said that snail’s mucus have been used by the Greek to cure infected wounds, bronchitis and asthma. Snails can live on varying habitations starting from the sea, fresh water, land and highlands. Most of them inhabit moist and wet environments.

IKA NINGTYAS