Fungus facts: Explore the surprising skincare benefits of mushroom extract

Date July 14, 2014

Mushroom Mask — Photography by Angela Victory-Smith

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Did you know that even though we get our mushrooms in the veggie section of the supermarket, they are actually in the same superregnum as animals, meaning they are not plants, but organisms? These popular edible organisms contain highly nutritious values, plus unique health benefits, so it’s no surprise that fungi is foraging its way into more than just our lunch salads. The benefits of mushroom extract are plentiful, as it has a number of properties that make it an ideal ingredient in skin care.

Anti-Aging
Mushrooms possess anti-aging properties. The extract can condition, tone and rejuvenate skin, boosting radiance and brightening skin tone. Kojic acid, produced by several species of fungi, contains lightening properties, and is used for lightening dark spots. As well, a polysaccharide in mushrooms is beneficial in hydrating and plumping skin better than hyaluronic acid, a sugar compound naturally found in high concentrations in the skin, and a popular ingredient in anti-aging skincare.

Vitamin D
Mushrooms are naturally high in Vitamin D, which is known to stimulate collagen production, boost elasticity, enhance radiance and calm acne flare ups.

Anti-Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of mushrooms work to protect, heal and soothe, which makes it an ideal ingredient in many products.

We’ve rounded up our favourite products so you can start experiencing the benefits of mushroom extract.

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benefits of mushroom extract anti-aging

For a hydration and radiance boost, try Dr. Alkaitis Organic Beautifying Mask ($65, alkaitis.com) . This nearly edible natural mask contains three types of organic mushrooms: Tuckahoe, Hedgehog, and Immortality varieties, which all contain anti-aging properties.

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benefits of mushroom extract vitamin-d

Elizabeth Dehn for One Love Organics Vitamin D Active Moisture Mist ($39, oneloveorganics.com) contains Shiitake mushroom, a rich source of Vitamin D. Used between cleansing and moisturizing, or throughout the day, it calms redness and revitalizes skin.

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benefits of mushroom extract anti-inflammation

Try it in an all-over body moisturizer to soothe and calm skin. CV Skinlabs Calming Moisture for Face, Neck and Scalp ($49, cvskinlabs.com) contains Reishi mushroom, an antioxidant-rich moisturizer to repair skin and impart a healthy glow.