Mushrooms in Skincare

What words come to your mind when you first think about adding mushroom extract to your face creams?

Whatever your initial reaction there is a banquet of skin-friendly chemistry to be had inside each grain of mushroom powder.  Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi and as with any other family of microbe.  

All mushrooms are a rich source of anti-inflammatory Beta Glucan, Antioxidants, Anti-microbials and Amino Acids, but different varieties offer their own unique beneficial range of chemistry that extends beyond these basics.

Some examples of cosmetic chemicals made possible by fungi are Xanthan gum, Hyaluronic Acid, Beta Glucan, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Ceramides, Peptides, Carrageenan, Cyclodextrins, Rhamnolipids (surfactants), Preservatives (Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Coconut Ferment), Papaya Enzymes, Bifida Ferment, Alcohol, Carotene, Omega Fatty Acids, Superoxide Dismutase and Chitin. As our appetite for natural, sustainable raw materials grows, its likely we're not done with the fungi factory quite yet!

Tremella aka Snow Mushroom
Natural alternative to hyaluronic acid, holds more water due to its smaller particle size. Loaded with polysaccharides is an excellent moisturiser, offering even better moisture retention that 0.02% hyaluronic acid.  Promotes cell growth which can strengthen skin barrier and help with wound healing, delivers skin hydration and improves elasticity, provides antioxidant stress/defenses.

Reishi Mushrooms aka mushroom of immortality
Reishi mushrooms are deeply hydrating, helping to retain moisture and keep the skin plump and supple. They reduce redness and soothe inflamed skin, making them ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Rich in antioxidants, Reishi mushrooms combat free radicals caused by environmental stressors, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Reishi also promotes collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.  This ingredient also helps reduce dark spots and pigmentation, contributing to a more even skin tone. They can help revive dull skin, giving it a clearer and more radiant appearance.
 

You can now understand why Holistik Skincare pops a little mushroom into our formulations.