In the realm of skincare, a silent revolution is taking place, and it comes in the form of mushrooms. From the kitchen to the forest floor, these versatile fungi are weaving their way into our beauty routines, sparking what is now known as the ‘Shroom Boom.’Β
Mushroom Skincare
The use of mushrooms in skin care is not new. They have been used in Eastern cultures for centuries, but they have recently been on the rise with there being an increased interest in more holistic health.Β
To better understand this shroom boom, these are the latest thoughts on the recent fungi phenomenon.Β
What is fungi?
The American National Park Service explains that mushrooms aren’t plants; they are types of fungi (a group that includes molds, yeast, and mildew) that have a “plantlike” form – with a stem and cap (they have cell walls as well). This is just the “flower or fruit” of the mushroom – the reproductive part, dispersing the spores. The most significant portion of the many fungi (the mycelium or roots, if you need a plant reference, are underground and can be acres in size).Β
As we embrace this skincare revolution and its natural beauty, it’s essential to acknowledge the untapped potential of mushrooms. Skincare enthusiasts have become more savvy at knowing what ingredients are in their skincare products and knowing the difference between cheap fillers and high-performance ingredients.Β
Shiitake and reishi mushrooms, celebrated for their culinary appeal, are now gaining accolades in the cosmetics realm. The market for shiitake mushrooms alone reached an impressive R5,482.8 million in 2020, with projections soaring to over R6,761.6 million by 2026, owing to their high demand in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Shiitake mushroom is an ingredient widely used in hair cosmetics, as it helps maintain the scalp’s hygiene and manipulate the hair’s structural properties.
The way brands incorporate fungi into their products is very important and will have an impact on the efficiency of the ingredients. The way we approach it involves a highly specialized growth protocol – grown for medical grade use, plus freeze-drying the whole fruiting body, ensuring 100% potency without compromising on natural compounds.
Mushrooms and their skincare benefits
Tremella Mushroom (Tremella fuciformis)
Hailed as the ‘Beauty Mushroom’ in China, Tremella mushroom is scientifically proven to enhance skin hydration, reduce wrinkles, and shield against UV-induced collagen loss. This mushroom is loaded with vitamin D, amino acids, minerals, polysaccharides, dietary fibers, enzymes, metabolites, N-acetylglucosamine, flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, and organic acids.
Cauliflower Mushroom (Sparassis crispa)
With a thin, paper-like texture and a slightly sweet-earthy taste, this edible wonder boasts antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Scientific research reveals its ability to safeguard skin cells from UVB-induced DNA damage, stimulate collagen synthesis, and promote healthy fibroblast cell activity.
Jewβs Ear Mushroom (Auricularia auricula-judae)
Admired for health and longevity, Jew’s Ear Mushroom is a skincare gem that offers unique benefits. Its ability to promote procollagen biosynthesis in skin cells enhances elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, this mushroom boosts hyaluronic acid synthesis, contributing to improved skin hydration. With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it has become an invaluable addition to skincare routines, naturally supporting skin health and radiance.
Conclusion
Let’s celebrate the ‘shroom boom,’ where skincare meets nature’s ancient wisdom, promising a future of radiant, mushroom-kissed beauty.
