Mushrooms
Which types of mushrooms are used in cosmetic applications?
Mushrooms such as reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), shiitake (Lentinula edodes), and chaga (Inonotus obliquus) are commonly used for their firming, hydrating, and soothing properties.
Can mushrooms help combat acne?
Yes, certain mushrooms such as Ganoderma lucidum have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce skin eruptions. However, they should not be used as a substitute for dermatological treatment.
Are there any mushroom-based hair care products?
Yes, certain hair care products incorporate fungi such as Cantharellus cibarius to strengthen and hydrate hair fibers, as well as to soothe the scalp.
Is it possible to use fresh mushrooms to formulate homemade skincare treatments?
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 counteract hyperpigmentation?
Yes, certain mushrooms, such as shiitake, contain enzymes that help brighten the complexion and reduce pigmentation spots.
Are mushrooms in cosmetics of natural or biotechnological origin?
Fungal-derived ingredients can be naturally sourced or obtained through biotechnological processes. Some active compounds are extracted directly from cultivated mushrooms, while others are produced via 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 unique cellular structures 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 few cases of skin reactions to mushrooms following topical application.
Are fungal-derived ingredients suitable for acne-prone or oily skin?
No specific contraindications exist; certain active compounds derived from mushrooms even exhibit promising 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 extracting bioactive compounds from raw fungal material, typically using water or solvents. A mushroom ferment, on the other hand, is produced through a fermentation process in which microorganisms transform the starting material, altering its composition and sometimes its bioavailability.
