Snail mucin is a slimy skincare ingredient with a big following. But is it ethical?

While at a conference in Seoul (pre-pandemic), I got the opportunity to chat to a brand that extracts stem cells from human umbilical cords (which are donated, tested for quality and, if they meet the standard, cloned) to make anti-ageing cream.

I also picked up some horse fat-infused face masks at the city's airport, and soon learnt that placenta is also commonly found in K-Beauty products. Another popular ingredient – one that is fast gaining global recognition – is snail mucin.

Yes, you read that right.