Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule
Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule
Product Description
Product overview
Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule is a lightweight, fast-absorbing Korean treatment serum powered by 80% Snail Secretion Filtrate, layered with peptides, sodium hyaluronate, panthenol and antioxidant cacao extract. This fragrance-free ampoule targets dehydration, post-acne marks, dullness and early fine lines, helping skin look smoother, plumper and more even-toned — all in a generous yet concentrated 30ml amber glass bottle from heritage brand Mizon.
Concentrated Snail Repair
80% Snail Secretion Filtrate delivers glycoproteins, allantoin and natural antioxidants to soothe, hydrate and support the look of damaged, post-acne skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYConcentrated Snail Repair
80% Snail Secretion Filtrate delivers glycoproteins, allantoin and natural antioxidants to soothe, hydrate and support the look of damaged, post-acne skin.
Triple Peptide Complex
Copper Tripeptide-1, Oligopeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) signal the skin to support firmness and a smoother, plumper appearance.
Deep Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, panthenol and trehalose layer multiple humectants for lasting moisture and a healthier-looking barrier.
Gentle & Minimalist
Fragrance-free, paraben-free and silicone-free, with antioxidant cacao and botanical extracts — formulated for sensitive, reactive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. Snail mucin, peptides and hyaluronic acid are generally considered low-risk — but always confirm with your OB/GYN.
No esters, fatty acids or polysorbates that typically feed malassezia. Considered a safe pick for those managing fungal acne.
Oil-free, lightweight formula with a comedogenic rating of around 1/5 — unlikely to clog pores for most users.
Listed fairly high (5th) to aid absorption. Most skin tolerates it well, but very dry or reactive skin may prefer a layer of moisturizer on top.
Plays well with vitamin C, niacinamide, AHA/BHA and retinol — snail mucin can actually help buffer irritation from stronger actives.
Free from added fragrance, common allergens, oils, parabens, silicones and sulfates. A patch test is still recommended for very reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSnail Secretion Filtrate 80%Proven
The hero ingredient, making up the bulk of the formula. Snail mucin is a naturally derived complex of glycoproteins, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, allantoin, zinc and copper peptides that hydrates, soothes and supports skin repair and a more even tone.
- Repair: Studied in vitro for promoting wound healing and supporting skin regeneration.
- Antioxidant: Contains vitamins A and E plus copper peptides that help defend against free-radical damage.
- Marketing claim: Mizon labels this ampoule at 80% snail filtrate — among the higher concentrations on the market.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~7–10%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, with a smaller molecular size that lets it absorb more readily. A powerhouse humectant that binds water to keep skin plump and hydrated throughout the day.
- Hydration: Can hold many times its weight in water, drawing moisture into the upper skin layers.
- Barrier: Better-hydrated skin supports a stronger, more resilient moisture barrier.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~2%Proven
A soothing humectant that penetrates deeper layers of skin to calm irritation and reinforce the barrier. Frequently used in healing and post-procedure products.
- Soothing: Helps reduce the look of redness and supports comfortable, calm skin.
- Healing: Converts to pantothenic acid in skin and supports wound recovery.
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) <1%Promising
A copper-bound signal peptide prized for supporting collagen synthesis, firmness and skin regeneration. A small exploratory study found copper tripeptide boosted procollagen in most participants.
- Firmness: May help stimulate collagen and improve the look of skin texture over time.
- Evidence: Early results are promising, though large controlled human trials are still limited.
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) <1%Promising
A famous anti-aging peptide built from five amino acids. It signals skin to produce more collagen, which can help soften the appearance of fine lines and support a firmer, plumper look.
- Wrinkles: Marketed to help improve the look of fine lines through collagen support.
- Barrier: A healthier collagen matrix contributes to firmer, more hydrated-looking skin.
Adenosine ~0.04%Proven
A nucleoside found in every living cell and a Korea-recognized anti-wrinkle active. Even at low concentrations it supports smoother skin, firmness and the appearance of reduced wrinkles.
- Anti-aging: Helps boost collagen production and improve skin firmness.
- Repair: Studied for supporting tissue repair and a smoother surface.
Theobroma Cacao Extract <1%Promising
Cocoa-seed extract rich in antioxidant polyphenols such as flavonoids and procyanidins. Adds environmental defense and complements snail mucin's own antioxidant content.
- Antioxidant: Polyphenols help neutralize free radicals that contribute to dullness and aging.
Alcohol Denat. ~3–5%Promising
Used as a solvent and absorption enhancer that helps the formula sink in quickly and feel lightweight. It evaporates fast, but its position fairly high in the list is worth noting.
- Texture: Helps deliver a fast-absorbing, non-greasy, dewy finish.
24 ingredients
Snail Secretion Filtrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Panthenol, Glycereth-26, Punica Granatum Extract, Theobroma Cacao Extract, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Trehalose, Copper Tripeptide-1, Oligopeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tropolone, Sodium Polyacrylate, Adenosine, Coptis Japonica Extract, Disodium EDTA.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after lightweight watery steps (toner/essence) and before heavier creams. Use morning and night; in the AM, always finish with SPF.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean skin and your usual toner or essence so the ampoule absorbs into slightly damp skin.
Dispense 2–4 Drops
Use the glass dropper to apply 2–4 drops for the whole face. Using too much can leave a sticky film.
Pat to Absorb
Gently press and pat into skin rather than rubbing. Let it sink in for about 30 seconds.
Seal With Moisturizer
Follow with a cream or moisturizer to lock in hydration, especially for dry or dehydrated skin.
Finish With SPF (AM)
In your morning routine, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated, dull or stressed skin needing a moisture boost
- You're dealing with post-acne marks and uneven texture
- You want a fragrance-free serum gentle enough for sensitive skin
- You like layering peptides and snail mucin for early anti-aging
- You prefer a lightweight, fast-absorbing finish over heavy serums
Consider alternatives if:
- You strictly avoid all alcohol denat. in skincare
- You're vegan and prefer to skip animal-derived snail mucin
- You want maximum volume per dollar (a 30ml bottle runs out fast)
- You have very dry skin and want an all-in-one rich moisturizer
- You've previously reacted to snail secretion filtrate
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight and fast-absorbing with a non-greasy finish — hydrates without heaviness.
Delivers solid hydration but works best layered under a richer moisturizer to seal it in.
Balances hydration across the T-zone and cheeks without feeling greasy or tight.
Fragrance-free and soothing, though the alcohol denat. means a patch test is wise for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe; snail mucin can help calm and fade post-acne marks.
Results timeline
WEEK 10–12Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels noticeably more hydrated, supple and comfortable. Tightness and surface dryness ease as humectants get to work.
~78% noticedSmoother Texture
Skin looks smoother and more refined, with a softer, plumper surface and a healthy dewy glow.
~65% noticedFading Marks & Tone
Post-acne marks begin to look less obvious and overall tone appears more even with continued nightly use.
~54% noticedFirmer, Refined Look
With peptides at work, skin can look firmer and fine lines softened, supporting a healthier, more resilient appearance.
~46% noticedRatings by platform
7K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High 80% snail mucin concentration at a budget-friendly price
- Boosted with peptides and antioxidants beyond plain snail essences
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing and fragrance-free
- Visibly improves hydration, texture and post-acne marks over time
- Gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin
Criticized
- Small 30ml bottle empties faster than larger competitors
- Contains alcohol denat. fairly high in the list
- Glass dropper can be fiddly and slightly messy
- Snail mucin is animal-derived (not suitable for strict vegans)
- Results are gradual, not overnight
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 96% snail mucin in a much larger 100ml bottle — far better value per ml. Simpler, alcohol-free formula but lacks Mizon's peptides and antioxidant extras.
Same brand's essence with ~86% snail mucin in a bigger bottle, so cost per ml is lower. Lighter, more watery texture and fewer concentrated actives than the ampoule.
Pairs black snail mucin with centella and bee venom for soothing and repair. Slightly richer feel; great for sensitive, redness-prone skin at a friendly price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap tightly closed.
Amber glass bottle with a glass dropper
Yes — 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit (glass dropper needs padding).
Frequently asked questions
FAQIt's generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens, and its main actives — snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol and peptides — are widely viewed as pregnancy-friendly. That said, individual circumstances vary, so always confirm with your OB/GYN or dermatologist before adding any product during pregnancy.
Yes. The formula avoids the esters, fatty acids and polysorbates that typically feed malassezia, so it's generally considered safe for those managing fungal acne. As always, monitor your own skin's response, since triggers can be individual.
Yes. Snail mucin layers well with most actives, including vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol and AHA/BHA. It can even help buffer dryness or irritation from stronger actives. Apply your active first, then the ampoule, or alternate them between AM and PM routines. Introduce new actives gradually.
It suits most skin types but shines for oily, combination and acne-prone skin thanks to its lightweight, non-greasy feel. Dry skin will benefit too, but should layer a richer moisturizer on top. Sensitive skin generally does well given the fragrance-free formula — just patch test first because of the alcohol denat.
Most users notice improved hydration and comfort within the first 1–2 weeks. Smoother texture tends to appear around weeks 3–4, while fading of post-acne marks and firmer-looking skin develop with consistent use over 6–12 weeks. Snail mucin and peptides work gradually, so daily use is key.
Apply it after cleansing, toner and any watery essence, but before heavier serums, moisturizers and oils. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen. Use 2–4 drops and pat into skin, then seal with a moisturizer.
No — it's oil-free, non-comedogenic and rates around 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Snail mucin is well tolerated by most skin, including acne-prone skin, and its soothing properties can actually help calm breakouts. Reactions are possible for anyone, so patch test if you're very sensitive.
Around 12 months after opening (PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed tightly between uses. Because the 30ml bottle is on the smaller side, many users finish it within that window anyway.
Verdict: The Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule is a standout budget-friendly K-beauty treatment that pairs a high 80% snail mucin concentration with a genuine triple-peptide complex, hydrating humectants and antioxidant extracts — more than most plain snail essences offer at this price. It's lightweight, fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive, acne-prone skin, delivering reliable hydration, smoother texture and gradual improvement in post-acne marks. The trade-offs are a small 30ml bottle and the presence of alcohol denat., which very dry or reactive skin should follow with a moisturizer. For anyone wanting an effective, multitasking snail serum without the premium price tag, it's an easy recommendation.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 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 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|