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3 min read
Brightening, smoothing, hydrating, healing… there’s nothing the new batch of fungi-infused face products can’t do.
Mushrooms have been a pretty hot topic for a while now, thanks in no small part to the fact that they’re super versatile and have been hailed by the World Economic Forum as the possible “ultimate green material for the future”. Not only can they boost cell immunity, they’re also antiviral and full of vitamin D. That’s why you’ll struggle to find a nutritional supplement without a helping of powdered mushrooms on the ingredients list.
Thanks to their potential anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties, they’re a big thing in beauty too.
From serums to creams to masks, there’s a whole ecosystem of mushroom skincare out there to choose from.
How does mushroom skincare work?
“Mushrooms are increasingly being incorporated into skincare formulations,” Consultant dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips tells Stylist. “Formulations contain extracts from particular species (eg shiitake) which are rich in polysaccharides, peptides, polyphenols, protease inhibitors and kojic acid. These actives can help to brighten the complexion, reduce the signs of sun damage and even out the skin tone. The mycelium, which is a root-like structure within the mushroom, is often the source of extracts used in cosmetic formulations.”
Is mushroom skincare good for any particular skin complaints?
Dr Phillips, who has a residency at BioLite Dubai, explains: “Mushroom-based products derived from shiitake extracts are rich in kojic acid, an effective skin-lightening agent, and can be used to address pigmentary concerns such as melasma, sunspots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.”
What kinds of products containing mushrooms should people look out for?
Dr Phillips says: “People should keep an eye out for a broad range of products containing mushroom extracts including serums, creams, oil-based cleansers and masks.”
How long should it take before you see results?
“It is difficult to say how long it will take to see results, but clinical studies have shown statistically significant improvement in skin aging after eight weeks of treatment with a mushroom-based skincare product,” says Dr Phillips. “The formulation of the mushroom-based product, the skin concern being treated and the frequency of application are likely to affect how soon results are seen.”
Top mushroom products we’ve foraged for you
Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Treatment Lotion
The original mushroom miracle worker rebalances and strengthens the skin barrier.
Shop Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Treatment Lotion at Sephora, £39
REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Ultra Comforting Rescue Mask
With white mushroom blocking heat and itchiness, any redness is instantly soothed.
Shop REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Ultra Comforting Rescue Mask at SpaceNK, £34
Kora Organics Milks Mushroom Gentle Cleansing Oil
Gently but thoroughly wipe the day away with this mushroom-powered cleansing oil.
Shop Kora Organics Milks Mushroom Gentle Cleansing Oil at Cult Beauty, £32
Herbar The Face Nectar
Combined with probiotics and hyaluronic acid, the mushrooms in this little bottle promise to boost your skins moisture – and its barrier, too.
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum
Thanks to pore-tightening agarikon mushroom, as well as a host of other powerful ingredients, this serum goes the whole nine yards.
Shop Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum, £68
Youth To The People's Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream
Pai Skincare Tri-Mushroom Booster 10%
Packed with reishi, chaga and cordyceps mushrooms, this gentle and soothing booster is good for sensitive skin.
Shop Pai Skincare Tri-Mushroom Booster 10% at LookFantastic, £19
Mantle The Shroom Essence Multi-depth hydration fluid
Plumper and more hydrated skin is just a few pats away thanks to this serum.
Dermalogica Hydro Masque Exfoliant
This handy mask hydrates and exfoliates your skin at the same time.
Images: courtesy of brands
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