water loss. Lower MW mucins, on the other hand, can more easily penetrate the stratum corneum, or the outermost layer of the epidermis. This enhances the hydrating effects, allowing the mucins and their water networks to interact with more layers of the skin. Hence, variations in mucin MW can be fine-tuned according to desired product goals.

Mucus extracts contain compounds that exhibit antioxidant activity, including peptides and trace minerals that can neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are detrimental to the inner and