Mushrooms
Which types of mushrooms are utilised in cosmetics?
Mushrooms such as reishi, shiitake and chaga are commonly utilised for their firming, hydrating and soothing properties.
Can mushrooms help combat acne?
Yes, some fungi such as Ganoderma lucidum have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce skin rashes. However, they should not be considered a substitute for dermatological treatment.
Are there any mushroom-based haircare products?
Yes, some hair-care products employ fungi such as Cantharellus cibarius to strengthen and moisturise hair fibres, as well as to soothe the scalp.
Can fresh mushrooms be used to formulate homemade skincare preparations?
It is possible to use fresh mushrooms in homemade masks, but it is preferable to use pre-formulated mushroom-based products for optimal efficacy and, above all, enhanced safety.
Can mushrooms help combat hyperpigmentation?
Yes, certain mushrooms, such as shiitake, contain enzymes that help to lighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of pigmented spots.
Are mushrooms in cosmetics of natural origin or biotechnologically produced?
Mushroom-derived ingredients can be of natural origin or obtained through biotechnological processes. Some bioactive compounds are sourced directly from cultivated mushrooms and then extracted, while others are produced by controlled fermentation to improve their purity, stability or reproducibility.
How do mushrooms differ from conventional plant extracts in cosmetics?
Unlike plants, fungi do not perform photosynthesis and possess a specific cellular structure and metabolism. They notably produce polysaccharides, beta-glucans and secondary metabolites with distinct biological properties, often involved in modulating inflammation or supporting the skin barrier.
Are there any allergy risks associated with mushroom-derived ingredients?
As with any cosmetic ingredient, mushroom extracts may provoke reactions in sensitive individuals. However, the scientific literature reports only a small number of skin reactions to topically applied mushrooms.
Are fungal ingredients suitable for acne-prone or oily skin?
There are no specific contraindications; certain mushroom-derived active compounds even exhibit interesting properties for acne-prone or oily skin, notably sebum-regulating and anti-inflammatory effects.
What is the difference between a mushroom extract and a mushroom ferment?
A mushroom extract is obtained by isolating bioactive compounds from raw fungal material, typically using water or solvents. A mushroom ferment, by contrast, is produced through a fermentation process in which microorganisms transform the starting material, altering its composition and occasionally its bioavailability.
