Seoul 1988 Essence Snail Mucin 97% + Rice
Seoul 1988 Essence Snail Mucin 97% + Rice
Product Description
Product overview
K-Secret's Seoul 1988 Essence delivers a powerhouse 97% snail secretion filtrate paired with rice ferment filtrate (sake), rice seed water, and rice extract in a lightweight, fast-absorbing gel. This 15-ingredient minimalist formula by the Korean brand from Barunson Co., Ltd. targets skin repair, deep hydration, texture refinement, and radiance — dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free, and safe for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
97% Snail Secretion Filtrate
970,000 ppm of pure snail mucin — one of the highest concentrations on the market — to deeply hydrate, soothe, and support skin repair.
Texture & feel
SENSORY97% Snail Secretion Filtrate
970,000 ppm of pure snail mucin — one of the highest concentrations on the market — to deeply hydrate, soothe, and support skin repair.
Triple Rice Complex
Rice seed extract, rice seed water, and rice ferment filtrate (sake) work together to brighten, refine texture, and even out tone.
Multi-Weight Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate plus panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) draw moisture deep into skin and lock it in for long-lasting plumpness.
Minimalist 15-Ingredient Formula
No fragrance, essential oils, parabens, silicones, sulfates, or harsh alcohols — a clean, low-risk formulation for reactive skin.
Barrier Repair Support
Allantoin and panthenol calm irritation and reinforce the skin barrier, making the essence suitable for post-procedure or stressed skin.
Layer-Friendly Texture
Watery gel absorbs in under a minute with no tackiness — ideal for stacking under serums, moisturizers, and SPF.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Safe for pregnancy and nursing.
Contains no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates known to feed malassezia. Suitable for those with fungal acne concerns.
Butylene glycol is the only ingredient with a low comedogenic score of 1. Very low risk of clogging pores.
No added fragrance, essential oils, or drying alcohols — ideal for sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide, and peptides. Helps buffer and soothe irritation from actives.
Snail secretion filtrate is animal-derived. Brand states cruelty-free harvesting, but those avoiding animal ingredients should skip.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSnail Secretion Filtrate 97%Proven
The star ingredient at 970,000 ppm — a mucin harvested from Helix aspersa snails, naturally rich in glycoproteins, glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, peptides, allantoin, and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase).
- Clinical evidence: A clinical study by Dr. Rafael Abad Iglesias on 100 patients found snail mucin produced statistically significant improvement in erythema, itching, and burning pain from radiation dermatitis.
- Mechanism: A 2007 molecular study identified two powerful antioxidant enzymes — superoxide dismutase and glutathione S-transferase — as the basis for its regenerative properties.
- Benefits: Deep hydration, collagen support, barrier repair, scar-fading, and soothing of inflammation and acne marks.
Rice Ferment Filtrate (Sake) 30 ppmProven
Fermented rice extract rich in amino acids, kojic acid derivatives, and natural brightening compounds — a cornerstone of traditional Korean and Japanese skincare.
- Brightening: Rice water partially inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme controlling melanin production, helping to fade dark spots and even skin tone.
- Wound healing: A 2002 study showed rice extracts increase the rate of wound healing and improve skin barrier function.
- Antioxidant action: Rice ferment contains vitamin E and free-radical-neutralizing compounds that combat premature aging.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Seed Extract 130 ppmProven
Extract from the rice grain itself — delivers emollient proteins, antioxidants, and amino acids that hydrate, soothe, and improve radiance.
- Anti-aging: Rice proteins create an emollient barrier that locks moisture in; studies link rice extracts to increased collagen production in vitro.
- Tradition: Rice water has been used as a skincare ingredient across Asia for thousands of years, dating back to the court of the Heian period.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~1%Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid — a humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, delivering instant plumpness and long-lasting hydration.
- Mechanism: Pulls water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum for immediate and sustained hydration.
- Skin compatibility: Well-tolerated across all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, with no comedogenic or irritating potential.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1%Proven
Converts to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) on skin — a humectant with proven wound-healing and barrier-repair properties.
- Clinical use: Widely used in dermatology for its ability to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and calm inflammation.
- Barrier repair: Supports skin recovery from irritation caused by retinoids, acids, or environmental stress.
Allantoin ~0.5%Proven
A soothing, keratolytic compound found in comfrey root (typically synthesized for cosmetics) — calms irritation and promotes cell turnover.
- Soothing: Reduces redness and discomfort in reactive, sensitive, or post-procedure skin.
- Mild exfoliation: Gently helps slough off dead skin cells without irritation.
Arginine tracePromising
An amino acid essential for collagen and keratin synthesis — also functions as a pH buffer and antioxidant in cosmetic formulations.
- Repair support: May help repair damaged skin and contribute to the skin's natural antioxidant defense.
- Formulation: Balances pH and works synergistically with other amino acids in snail mucin.
15 ingredients
Snail Secretion Filtrate (970,000 ppm), Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethyl Hexanediol, Allantoin, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Carbomer, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Panthenol, Water, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Seed Extract (130 ppm), Arginine, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Seed Water (30 ppm), Rice Ferment Filtrate (Sake) (30 ppm).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner and before serum, both morning and night. Pat gently onto damp skin for maximum absorption and layering benefits.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Wash with a gentle cleanser, then apply your favorite toner on slightly damp skin.
Dispense 2–3 Pumps
Pump a moderate amount (about a dime-size) into clean hands or directly onto your face.
Pat Gently
Spread evenly across face and neck, then tap with fingertips until fully absorbed. Do not rub.
Layer Next Steps
Follow with serum, moisturizer, and SPF (AM). Can be layered 2–3 times for extra "glass skin" hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a highly concentrated snail mucin essence at an affordable price
- You have dehydrated, dull, or textured skin that needs repair
- You're acne-prone and need non-comedogenic, fungal-acne-safe hydration
- You're building a minimalist K-beauty routine
- You use actives (retinol, AHAs, vitamin C) and need a soothing buffer
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want safe hydration
Consider alternatives if:
- You follow a strictly vegan skincare routine
- You have extremely dry skin and need an occlusive-rich formula
- You dislike slippery, gel-like textures
- You have a known allergy to snail mucin or mollusks
- You're seeking targeted anti-aging actives (retinoids, peptides)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel texture absorbs fast without adding grease or shine. Ideal primer under sunscreen.
Delivers strong humectant hydration, but dry skin types will need a rich moisturizer on top to seal it in.
Balances hydration without overloading oily zones or leaving dry zones tight. A truly universal fit.
Dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free, and allergen-free. Allantoin and panthenol actively soothe reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and free of pore-clogging oils. Snail mucin supports acne-scar fading.
Snail peptides and antioxidants support skin elasticity and fine-line appearance, but lacks dedicated retinoids or peptides.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSImmediate Plumpness & Dewy Glow
Skin feels bouncy, hydrated, and refreshed the moment product is patted in. Tight, dehydrated skin relaxes visibly.
92% noticedSmoother Texture & Reduced Redness
Rough patches start softening, minor breakouts calm faster, and overall irritation decreases with consistent twice-daily use.
78% noticedBrighter Tone & Fewer Acne Marks
Rice ferment and snail mucin fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Complexion looks more even and radiant.
71% noticedStronger Barrier & Resilient Skin
Skin tolerates actives better, stays hydrated longer between products, and looks visibly healthier and more elastic.
65% noticedRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional 97% snail mucin concentration — higher than most competitors
- Added rice ferment complex for brightening beyond pure snail formulas
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and allergen-conscious
- Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe
- Pregnancy-safe and suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight texture absorbs in under a minute
- Generous 100ml size lasts 3–4 months with twice-daily use
- Affordable price for the concentration
Criticized
- Slimy, stringy texture can feel strange at first
- Not suitable for vegans (animal-derived ingredient)
- Plastic bottle less premium than competitor glass options
- Dry skin types may need additional occlusive layer
- Pump mechanism can occasionally malfunction near end
- Takes 4+ weeks for visible brightening benefits
- Less globally recognized than COSRX or Mizon brands
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The most iconic snail mucin essence with 96% snail secretion filtrate, simpler 11-ingredient formula, no rice complex. Virtually identical benefits minus the brightening boost from fermented rice.
Smaller 30ml bottle with around 80% snail filtrate plus peptides for anti-aging. More concentrated feel, but costs over 3× more per ml.
Lower snail mucin percentage with added bee venom and arbutin for brightening. Richer but carries allergen risk for bee-sensitive users.
Snail mucin combined with centella asiatica (cica) for extra calming of acne and redness. Richer texture but costs more per ml.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEK-Secret Seoul 1988 Essence (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life of up to 36 months from manufacture date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid humid bathroom shelves; optional fridge storage extends freshness.
Plastic pump bottle (100ml) — hygienic, controlled dispensing that minimizes air exposure and contamination.
Yes, under 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Pump is secure but we recommend using the optional cap during flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or essential oils — the main categories of concern during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Snail secretion filtrate, rice ferment, panthenol, allantoin, and hyaluronic acid are all considered safe. As always, consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist for your specific situation.
Yes. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty esters, oils, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. All 15 ingredients are malassezia-safe, making this essence suitable for those managing fungal acne, seborrheic dermatitis, or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes, and it pairs exceptionally well with actives. Snail mucin, panthenol, and allantoin soothe the irritation, dryness, and flaking caused by retinoids and exfoliating acids. Apply the essence either before (on damp skin) or after your active to buffer. Compatible with L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), niacinamide, AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHA (salicylic acid), and peptides.
All skin types — including sensitive, acne-prone, combination, and mature skin. It is especially praised by those with dehydrated, dull, or textured skin, and by anyone recovering from breakouts, barrier damage, or over-exfoliation. Dry skin types may want to layer a richer moisturizer on top.
Hydration and plumpness are instant — you'll feel the effect within minutes of the first application. Smoother texture and reduced redness typically appear around 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Brightening and fading of post-acne marks become visible around 4 weeks, with peak barrier repair benefits at 8–12 weeks.
Apply as the third step of your routine: after cleanser and toner, but before serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Use morning and night. For "glass skin" hydration, many K-beauty fans layer it 2–3 times, patting each layer in before the next.
No. The formula has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). Butylene glycol is the only ingredient with any comedogenic score, and it rates 1/5 — considered safe even for acne-prone skin. The essence contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy butters.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. The airless-style pump packaging helps minimize oxidation and contamination, keeping the snail mucin and rice ferments fresh. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Discard if you notice changes in color, smell, or texture.
Verdict: K-Secret's Seoul 1988 Essence is one of the most concentrated, clean, and effective snail mucin essences on the K-beauty market. With 97% snail secretion filtrate plus a triple rice complex for brightening, it outperforms many better-known competitors on ingredient potency while remaining fragrance-free, fungal-acne safe, and pregnancy-safe. The only real drawbacks are the characteristic slimy texture (normal for snail products) and its non-vegan status. A strong recommendation for anyone building a minimalist, barrier-friendly K-beauty routine — especially those with sensitive, acne-prone, or dehydrated skin looking for clinic-grade hydration and repair at an accessible price.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Snail Secretion Filtrate
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Ethyl Hexanediol
|
|
|
| 1 |
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Soothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|