Recently, I have been a little obsessed with finding skincare products with mushroom extracts in them. This obsession started after using a number of products from Origins Dr. Andrew Wiel Mega Mushroom line. Origins sent a PR box with a couple products from that line (including the mask, treatment lotion, and micellar water) and I Loved every product. Then I received a Eufloria Botanicals Wild Chaga Reviving Mist and my skin loved it. All of the products with mushroom extract seemed to calm redness in my skin, soothe skin sensitivities and leave my skin feeling balanced. So I asked my followers in Instagram what mushroom products they were loving and I had planned to just share that list, but then I started to get curious about the varieties of mushrooms that I was seeing in the ingredient lists and whether they all had the same skin benefits.

So, what are the benefits of mushrooms in skincare? There are certainly a lot of claims made about what they can do, and on top of that there are a wide variety of mushrooms that can be included in products. Bottom line: it isn’t an easy question to answer. So I started down the rabbit hole of research. Luckily for me, some researchers have recently started to compile and synthesize studies that have explored the cosmeceutical potential for mushrooms.

Here’s a rundown of what I will be covering:

1. Overview of the benefits of mushrooms
2. Review of the types of mushrooms includes in ingredient lists and their unique benefits
3. Non-exhaustive list of products that contain mushrooms (there was no way I could find every product, so I will be happy to update the list as I find new ones!)
   • Cleansers
   • Toners, Essences, Mists
   • Serums
   • Moisturizers
   • Treatments
   • Masks

Mushroom Benefits

In a recent work, Taofiq et al. 2016 reviewed  studies focused on mushrooms and their metabolites as important cosmetic ingredients. The authors found that a variety of mushroom extracts (along with their bioactive metabolites, like Ergothioneine) showed promising anti‑tyrosinase (brightening, inhibiting melanin formation), anti‑hyaluronidase (hydrating, helping to hold on to moisture), anti-collagenase (stimulate collagen synthesis by dermal fibroblasts) and anti‑elastase activity (skin elasticity), in addition to antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti‑inflammatory properties.

Antioxidant protection: Some mushrooms hold high antioxidant potential and can help fight free radicals which helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier and reduce photo aging.  

Hydrate:  Some mushrooms contains a polysaccharide that is great at hydrating the skin by drawing moisture to the skin, just like hyaluronic acid. (Liu & He, 2012).

Skin brightening (fading or inhibiting pigmentation): Some mushrooms have been found to reduce melanin content and inhibit tyrosinase activity (melanin production). Combined, this helps brighten skin and fade pigmentation. Some mushrooms contain kojic acid which is a natural skin lightener (Bentley, 2006). This acid inhibits melanin production on the surface of the skin. This lightens the new skin cells formed after the dead ones are exfoliated.

Anti-aging:  Mushrooms enhance the natural defenses of the skin. Mushrooms can help restore the skin elasticity, increase moisture content, stimulate collagen synthesis and have a skin lightening effect–combined this can make the skin look more healthy and have less signs of aging.

Inflammation: Inflammation and excessive free radical activity contributes to a number of skin problems. Many mushrooms have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties; as a result, their use promotes healing and fights inflammation. Not only do some mushrooms hold anti-inflammatory potential, but mushrooms are high in Vitamin D, which can be healing when applied to acne.  Mushroom extracts can be a great ingredient if you are struggling with skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne.

What to look for in the INCI

• Cordyceps sinensis (Cordyceps or Caterpillar fungus)
  • Anti-inflammatory (Taofiq et al 2016b)
  • Moisturizing
  • Reported anti-inflammatory potential on skin induced dermatitis (Taofiq et al, 2016)
• Coriolus versicolor or Trametes versicolor (Cloud mushroom)
  • Anti-tyrosinase (Park et al., 2015b)
• Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi or Lingzhi)
  • Antioxidant
  • help repair skin damage associated with over exposure to UV radiation and free radicals.
  • Anti-tyrosinase (Chien et al., 2008)
  • Anti-inflammatory (Taofiq et al, 2016b)
  • Best at skin brightening through inhibiting tyrosinase activity (Wu et al., 2016)
  • Anti-aging (Huang et al. 2015)
• Grifola Frondosa (Maitake)
  • Anti-collagenase and anti-tyrosinase (Kim et al., 2007)
  • High concentration of l-ergothioneine: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (Mortimer et al., 2012)
  • Reported anti-inflammatory potential on skin induced dermatitis (Taofiq et al, 2016)
  • Found to inhibit MMP-1 (Bae et al 2005)
• Inonotus obliquus (Chaga)
  • Anti-tyrosinase Yan et al. (2014)
  • Antioxidant (Min-Hee et al., 2013)
• Lentinus edodes (Shiitake)
  • Anti-tyrosinase Yoon et al. (2011b)
  • Anti-microbial (Alves et al 2012; Mortimer et al., 2012)
  • Antioxidant (Puttaraju et al., 2006; Mortimer et al., 2012)
  • Found to induce superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), two antioxidant enzymes known for protecting skin from oxidative damage and reversing fibrosis (Cheung et al., 2003)
  • Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant (Mortimer et al., 2012).
  • Can also aid in exfoliation, encourage faster skin renewal, and increase skin elasticity as a skin brightener (Wu et al., 2016)
  • Can produce beta-glucans
• Pleurotus species citrinopileatus (Oyster Mushrooms)
  • Anti-tyrosinase (Pleurotus species are the most studied mush-room species with reported anti-tyrosinase potential)
  • High concentration of the powerful anti-oxidant, l-ergothioneine (Dubost et al., 2006)
  • Found to produce beta-glucan
  • Anti-hyaluronidase (Meng et al., 2011)
  • Anti-inflammatory (Taofiq et al, 2016b)
  • Reported anti-inflammatory potential on skin induced dermatitis (Taofiq et al, 2016)
  • Antioxidant (Stefan et al. 2015)
  • Anti-microbial (Facchini et al.2014)
• Phellinus linteus (Sang Hwang, Meshima or Meshimakobu)
  • Anti-inflammatory (Taofiq et al 2016b)
  • Antimicorbial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant (Mattila et al., 2001);
  • Hydrating via presence of ceramides
• Agaricus bisporus (Portobello)
  • Anti-tyrosinase (Miyake et al., 2010)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antioxidant and Anti-microbial (Stojkovi et al., 2014)
• Tricholoma matsutake (Songyi or pine mushroom)
  • Anti-elastase, anti-collagenase (Kim et al., 2014)
  • Anti-aging potential with ability to prevent degradation of the extra-cellular matrix
  • Anti- tyrosinase (Liu et al 2015)
• Tremella (Snow Mushroom, Golden jelly fungus or yellow trembler)
  • Hydrating and skin brightening (Wu et al., 2016). Slightly greater water-holding capacities than HA. One study revealed that cosmetics added with 0.05% Tremella polysaccharides had better moisture retention capacity than that added with 0.02% hyaluronic acid (Liu & He, 2012). This is very popular in China and Japan as a replacement for sodium hyaluronic acid.
  • Brightening in a novel effect of inhibiting melanin formation effects and lightening the spots on the skin when applied to the skin (Zhang et al, 2013)
  • Tremella reduces the peroxidation of cell lipids and shoots the concentration of Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) in cells.
• Tuber indicum (Truffle)
  • Contains essential amino acids, vitamins B1, B2 and B3, and polysaccharides such as lentinan and eritadenin; hydrating via presence of ceramides (Gao et al. 2004)
  • Common truffles include e.g. Burgundy truffles (Tuber uncinatum), Perigord truffles (Tuber melanosporum ), Kalahari truffles (Terfezia pfeilii Hennings), Piedmont truffles (Tuber magnatum Pico Vitt.), lion’s truffles (Terfezia leonis Tul.), summer truffles (Tuber aestivum), winter truffles (Tuber brumale Vitt.) and white truffles (Choiromyces maeandriformis).

The table is based on studies reviewing the cosmeceutical potential of mushroom extracts. More in vivo and clinical studies are needed to develop and validate cosmeceutical formulations with mushrooms.

Skincare Products with Mushroom Extracts

((This is not an exhaustive list. I added in all products that people told me about via Instagram and I did a search to try to find as many as I could))

**In each category, the products are listed in order of cost per oz (with the cheapest cost per ounce shown first). The mushroom ingredient is highlighted in pink. For me, I like to look for products with a somewhat smaller ingredient list with the key ingredient of interest (in this case, mushrooms), listed higher up in the ingredients so that I know I am getting a good concentration of that ingredient in order to really reap its benefits. I also like when more than one type of mushroom extract is included to benefit from the unique aspects of each. **

Cleansers

Origins Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Micellar cleanser

Price: $31 for 6.7 oz ($4.63 per oz)

Information from Brand

Wash away everything you know about cleansing. Our miraculous no-rinse, soap and alcohol free formula gently removes dirt, makeup and pollutants. It’s fortified with Dr. Weil’s signature skin-soothing Mega-Mushroom blend plus antioxidant-rich Berry Ferment. This potent formula helps support skin’s resilience against environmental irritants. Skin feels totally refreshed, silky soft and completely, comfortably clean. Never irritated.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Pogostemon Cablin Oil*, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil*, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil*, Boswellia Carterii (Olibanum) Oil**, Limonene, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Lycium Chinense (Wolfberry) Fruit Extract, Fuscoporia Obliqua Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Extract, Trehalose, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hypnea Musciformis (Algae) Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Polysorbate 20, Gellidiela Acerosa (Algae) Extract, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Yeast Extract, Cetrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Cellulose, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Phytate, Phenoxyethanol. *Organic Essential Oils: Organic Orange Oil, Organic Mandarin Oil, Organic Patchouli Oil, Organic Geranium Oil, Organic Lavender Oil. ** Essential Oil

Origins Mega-Mushroom Skin Relief Face Cleanser

Price: $31 for 5 oz ($6.20 per oz)

Information from Brand

This ultra-gentle, milky lotion cleanser is formulated with Cordyceps and Reishi Mushrooms, Ginger, Turmeric and Holy Basil, as well as skin-soothing Licorice Extract. It quickly removes makeup, dirt, debris and impurities without upsetting skin’s naturally protective lipid balance. Even highly sensitive skin stays calm as you cleanse.

Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Phenyl Trimethicone, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil**, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil**, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil**, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil**, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil**, Boswellia Carterii (Olibanum) Oil***, Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol,, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Hippophae Rhamnoides Extract*, Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract*, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract*, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract, Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Fuscoporia Obliqua Extract, Ppg-20 Methyl Glucose Ether, Cholesterol, Caprylyl Glycol, Bisabolol, Sucrose Stearate, Carbomer, Squalane, Isostearic Acid, Tromethamine, Cellulose, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Phenoxyethanol.

Restorsea Reviving Cleanser

Price: $65 for 6.7 oz ($9.70 per oz)

Information from Brand

Powered by the Songyi Mushroom, a natural bio-extract known for its skin lightening and brightening properties.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua/Eau), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Hydrosultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Hydrolyzed Roe, Songyi Mushroom Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance (Parfum), Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate

Saranghae Nourishing & Moisturizing Oil + Foam Cleanser with Truffle Extract & Gold

Price:  $39 for 3.9 oz ($9.74 per oz)

Information from Brand

Saranghae Nourishing & Moisturizing Oil + Foam Cleanser is formulated with 2 of the world’s most luxurious ingredients: Truffle Extract & Gold (yes, you read that correctly, real Gold!). This unique and revolutionary cleansing formula combines the deep pore cleansing power of an oil cleanser with the effective make-up removal of a foam cleanser.

Ingredients: Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Purified Water, Potassium Cocoate, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerin, Olive Fruit Oil, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Truffle Extract, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract, Saponaria Officinalis Leaf Extract, Sapindus Mukurossi Fruit Extract,Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Butylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Jojoba Seed Oil, Camelia Sinensis Seed Oil, Alcohol, Sucrose, Sodium Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, BHT, Disodium EDTA, Sorbitan Stearate, Palmitic Acid, Camelia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids, Sunflower Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Camellia Oleifera Seed Extract, Fluorphlogopite, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxide, Wild Yam Root Extract, Ginseng Saponins, Albumen Extract, Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Oil, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Rosemary Leaf Oil, Chamomilla Matricaria Flower Oil, Lavender Oil, Rose Flower Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Candida Bombicola/Glucose/Methyl Rapeseedate Ferment, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Royal Jelly Extract, Propolis Extract, Gold, Gypsophila Paniculata Root Extract, Vigna Radiata Seed Extract, Parfum

Euflora Wild Chaga Face Wash

Price:  $42 for 4 oz ($10.50 per oz)

Information from Brand

Nourish your skin with the antioxidant-rich Chaga Mushroom, a skin superfood with immune-boosting properties. This gentle exfoliating cream cleanser is perfect for those who seek gentle exfoliation without overdrying the skin. Jojoba Beads work to stimulate and slough off dead skin cells while DMAE and MSM feed the formation of collagen, help firm the skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. The Chaga Mushroom is a potent antioxidant that boasts the highest levels of Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), measuring well over 100,000 units of antioxidant capacity. 

Ingredients: Inonotus obliquus (*Chaga Mushroom) Tea, Aspalathus linearis (Organic Rooibos Tea), Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) Juice, Olea europaea (Organic Olive) Oil, Aspalathus linearis (Organic Rooibos Tea) Extract, Emulsifying Wax NF, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Beads, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), Punica granatum (Organic Pomegranate) Extract, Carica papaya (Organic Green Papaya) Extract, Ananas comosus (Organic Pineapple) Extract, Carica papaya (Organic Papaya) Extract, Cocos nucifera (Organic Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia chinensis (Organic Jojoba) Oil, Tocopherols (Vitamin E), Inonotus obliquus (Chaga Mushroom) Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester), Panthenol (Vitamin B Complex), Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A) Oil, Rosa mosqueta (Organic Rosehip) Oil, Oenothers biennis (Organic Evening Primrose) Oil, Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Daucus carota (Carrot) Oil, Polysaccharide gum (Xanthan Gum), Lavendula officinalis (Lavender) Essential Oil, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) Essential Oil, Citrus bergamia risso (Bergamont) Essential Oil, Cupressus sempervirens (Cypress) Essential Oil, Citrus limonum (Lemon) Essential Oil, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Essential Oil.

Toners, Essences, Mists

Earth’s Recipe Energy Boosting Toner

Euflora Immortelle Toning Mist

Price: $25 for 4 oz ($6.25 per oz)

Information from Brand

Helichrysum is an effective antibiotic, antimicrobial, and antifungal agent. It is well known for treating acne and combination skin, is an effective moisturizer and helps repair aged facial tissue. Orange Blossom, also known as Neroli, has a wonderfully sweet scent and is heralded for its gentle astringent properties that help tone and tighten the skin. Peppermint is an effective antiseptic and antimicrobial, also aiding in balancing oil secretion. It is known to calm inflammation, cool and refresh the skin.

Ingredients: Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) Water, Helichrysum italicum (Organic Helichrysum) Distillate, Citrus aurantium (Orange Blossom) Distillate, Mentha piperita (Organic Peppermint) Distillate, Hamamelis virginiana (Organic Witch Hazel) Distillate, Lavendula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Distillate, Inonotus obliquus (Chaga Mushroom) Extract, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Citrus limonum (Lemon) Essential Oil, Rosmarinus officials (Rosemary) Essential Oil, Mentha piperita (Peppermint) Essential Oil, Juniperus communis (Juniper Berry) Essential Oil

Eufloria Botanicals Wild Chaga Reviving Mist

Price: $27 for 4 oz  ($6.75 per oz)

Information from Brand

The Chaga Mushroom is a potent antioxidant that boasts the highest levels of Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), measuring well over 100,000 units of antioxidant capacity. It also has high amounts of trace minerals, vitamins B1, B2, B3, K, and D, amino acids, phyto-nutrients, and is a powerful anti-bacterial. Lemon Verbena contains properties that reduce puffiness, retain moisture and calm inflammation. It also has a high citral content, making it an effective antiseptic and bactericide. Geranium is prized for it’s calming and grounding effects. It is known to help treat acne, itching, sluggish smoker’s skin, chronic skin conditions, balance sebaceous gland secretion, and promote a glowing, even skin tone. It’s aroma soothes and enhances prana and udana vata, reduces pitta fire and excess kapha doshas.

Ingredients: Inonotus obliquus (*Chaga Mushroom) Tea, Aspalathus linearis (Organic Rooibos tea), Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Juice, Rosa damascena (Rose) Distillate, Citrus aurantium (Orange Blossom) Distillate, Hamamelis virginiana (Organic Witch Hazel) Distillate, Aloysia triphylla (Organic Lemon Verbena) Distillate, Lavendula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Distillate, Inonotus obliquus (Chaga Mushroom) Extract, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) Essential Oil, and Citrus bergamia risso (Bergamot) Essential Oil.

suki Care Concentrated Strengthening Toner

Holy Snails Snowbang Essence

Price: $39 for 1.9 oz ($20.52 per oz)

Information from Brand

Snowbang Essence is a featherlight essence with 5% Ceramides Complex to keep your skin’s barrier healthy, and a smorgasbord of two dozen hanbang/herbal extracts to feed and soothe your face.  The  Hydrolyzed Oats is what gives it that silky soft finish, and helps to hydrate your skin.  This essence is chock full of extracts, but to name a few,  Ginseng, Horse Chestnut, Chamomile, Centella Asiatica, Calendula, and Licorice Root are prized extracts for their soothing and brightening abilities. 

[This product was not included in the graphic above because I couldn’t find out what type of mushroom extract was used]

Ingredients: Distilled Water, (Abronia Villosa Leaf Extract, Agave Americana Stem Extract, Blue Lotus Extract, Calendula Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Chamomile Extract, Evening Primrose Root Extract, Fouqueria Splendens Stem Extract, Ginger Root Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Ginseng Extract, Goji Berry Extract, Green Tea Extract, Helichrysum Extract, Hibiscus Extract, Horse Chestnut Extract, Iris Florentina Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Mushroom Extract, Pumpkin Seed Extract, Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract, Yucca Brevifolia Root Extract), Hydrolyzed Oats, (Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Xanthum Gum), Glycerin, (Water, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Wasabi Root Extract, Ginger Root Extract, Garlic Bulb Extract), (Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methyparaben, Propylparaben), Disodium EDTA

Tula Urban Defense Hydrating Mist

Price: $28 for 1 oz ($28 per oz)

Information from Brand

Pollution has met its match! This nutrient-packed spray helps protects against free radical damage that can age and irritate skin. Rose water, coconut water, and hyaluronic acid help to boost hydration. Reishi mushroom extract is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce the appearance of inflammation.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, C14-22 Alcohols, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Seedcake Extract, Lactose, Milk Protein, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Yogurt Extract, Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein, Cichorium Intybus (Chicory) Root Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Vegetable Oil (Olus Oil), Camelina Sativa Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Stem Extract, Serenoa Serrulata Fruit Extract, Undaria Pinnatifida Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Withania Somnifera Root Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Micrococcus Lysate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Alcohol Denat., Xanthan Gum, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol

Serums

Moisturizers

Price: $26 for 1.7 oz ($15.29 per oz)

A revitalizing, age-defying serum and cream in one that helps plump fine lines and firm the appearance of skin.

Infused with real, antioxidant-rich tea extracts, the Whamisa by Glow Recipe Chai Tea Serum-in-Cream is based in Rooibos Tea for youthfully glowing skin. Hydrate and nourish skin while helping diminish fine lines and wrinkles with soothing, healing Propolis and brightening, texture-refining Turmeric. 

CV Skinlabs Calming Moisture for Face, Neck and Scalp

Nayelle HYDRATE Probiotic Moisturizing Day Cream

Price: $34 for 1.4 oz (24.29 per oz)

Information from Brand

HYDRATE Probiotic Moisturizing Day Cream is lightweight, fast absorbing and instantly hydrating.  It is specifically created with a high concentration of snow mushroom. This ingredient is nature’s magic. It has the highest source of Vitamin D found in nature and it is 3x more hydrating than hyaluronic acid commonly used in other product lines. 

Ingredients: Sea Silt Extract, Aqua, Lactobacillus/ Nereocystis Leutkeana Ferment Filtrate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Propanediol, Lactobacillus Milk Ferment Filtrate, Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Monostearate, Potassium Distearate, Glyceryl Distearate, Glucose, Tremella Fuciformis (Tremella Mushroom) Powder, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Powder, Lactic Acid, Lactoperoxidase, Glucose Oxidase, Potassium Citrate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil

Treatments

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Dark Spot Corrector

Price: $12.95 for 1 oz

Information from Brand

A pigment-perfecting concentrate, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Dark Spot Corrector delivers a dose of advanced ingredients for targeting discoloration such as age spots, dark spots, post-acne scars and sun damage to even skin tone and unveil a brighter, more luminous complexion. 

Ingredients: Water, (aqua), glycerin, trilaureth-4 phosphate, sodium acrylate, butylene glycol, hexylresorcinol, tricholoma matsutake extract, theobroma cacao (cocoa) seed butter, niacinamide, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, tocopheryl acetate, glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract, hydrolyzed soy butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, vaccinium myrtillus fruit/leaf extract, acer saccharum (sugar maple) extract, saccharum officinarum (sugar cane) extract, citrus aurantium dulcis (orange) fruit extract, citrus limon (lemon) fruit extract, PEG-12 dimethicone, titanium dioxide, mica, caramel, DMDM hydantoin, propylene glycol, fragrance (parfum), benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl salicylate, citronellol, coumarin, eugenol, hydroxycitronellal, isoeugenol, butylphenyl methylpropional, linalool, hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde,

Alastin Renewal Retinol .5

Price: $60 for 1 oz

Information from Brand

Renewal Retinol .5 delivers the critical benefits of retinol, which is universally recognized for its ability to combat the signs of aging. Active retinol is encapsulated in a solid lipid, resulting in an anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant formula which can be used every evening. Product contains Tremella fuciformis sporocarp extract/Betaine Complex – Significantly more hydrating properties than hyaluronic acid

Ingredients: Water/Aqua, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Heptyl Undecylenate, Niacinamide, Polyacrylate-13, Glycerin, Retinol, Ubiquinone, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Bisabolol, Ceramide-3, Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract, Betaine, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caprylyl Glycol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetyl Palmitate, Polysorbate 20, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylhedroxamic Acid, Trideceth-6 Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Polyisobutene, Sodium Hydroxide.

Masks

Etude House Honey Cera Wrapping Mask

The Granola Goat Magical Mushroom Mask

Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Face Mask

References

(review articles in bold)

Bentley, R. (2006). From miso, sake and shoyu to cosmetics: a century of science for kojic acid. Natural product reports, 23(6), 1046-1062.

Cheung, L. M., Cheung, P. C., & Ooi, V. E. (2003). Antioxidant activity and total phenolics of edible mushroom extracts. Food chemistry, 81(2), 249-255..

Debnath, T., Park, S. R., Kim, D. H., Jo, J. E., & Lim, B. O. (2013). Anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Inonotus obliquus and germinated brown rice extracts. Molecules, 18(8), 9293-9304.

Dubost, N. J., Beelman, R. B., Peterson, D., & Royse, D. J. (2006). Identification and quantification of ergothioneine in cultivated mushrooms by liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 8(3).

Facchini, J. M., Alves, E. P., Aguilera, C., Gern, R. M. M., Silveira, M. L. L., Wisbeck, E., & Furlan, S. A. (2014). Antitumor activity of Pleurotus ostreatus polysaccharide fractions on Ehrlich tumor and Sarcoma 180. International journal of biological macromolecules, 68, 72-77.

Gao J-M, Zhang A-L, Chen H, Liu J-K (2004) Molecular species of ceramides from the  ascomycete truffle Tuber indicum. Chem Phys Lipids 131:205–213

HUANG, S., Chunwei, J. I. A. O., LIANG, H., Yongshan, Y. A. N. G., Jiaming, C. H. E. N., ZHANG, M., … & Yizhen, X. I. E. (2015). Study on the Anti-aging Efficacy of the Active Ingredients in Aqueous Extract of Ganoderma lucidum. Agricultural Biotechnology (2164-4993), 4(5).

Hyde, K. D., Bahkali, A. H., & Moslem, M. A. (2010). Fungi—an unusual source for cosmetics. Fungal diversity, 43(1), 1-9.

Liu, H., & He, L. (2012). Comparison of the moisture retention capacity of Tremella polysaccharides and hyaluronic acid. J. Anhui Agric. Sci, 40, 13093-13094.

Hui, L. I. U. (2012). Comparison of the Moisture Retention Capacity of Tremella Polysaccharides and Hyaluronic Acid [J]. Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences, 26, 130.

LIU, X. Y., YAN, A., & LIU, G. R. (2008). Performance and application of tricholoma matsutake extract in whitening cosmetics [J]. Detergent & Cosmetics, 10, 012.

Mattila, P., Könkö, K., Eurola, M., Pihlava, J. M., Astola, J., Vahteristo, L., … & Piironen, V. (2001). Contents of vitamins, mineral elements, and some phenolic compounds in cultivated mushrooms. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 49(5), 2343-2348.

Maurer, H. R. (2001). Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences CMLS, 58(9), 1234-1245.

Mortimer, P. E., Karunarathna, S. C., Li, Q., Gui, H., Yang, X., Yang, X., … & Sysouphanthong, P. (2012). Prized edible Asian mushrooms: ecology, conservation and sustainability. Fungal Diversity, 56(1), 31-47.

Puttaraju, N. G., Venkateshaiah, S. U., Dharmesh, S. M., Urs, S. M. N., & Somasundaram, R. (2006). Antioxidant activity of indigenous edible mushrooms. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 54(26), 9764-9772.

Sim, Y. C., Lee, S. G., Lee, D. C., Kang, B. Y., Park, K. M., Lee, J. Y., … & Rhee, J. S. (2000). Stabilization of papain and lysozyme for application to cosmetic products. Biotechnology letters, 22(2), 137-140.

Stefan, R. I., Vamanu, E., & Angelescu, G. C. (2015). Antioxidant activity of crude methanolic extracts from Pleurotus ostreatus. Research Journal of Phytochemistry, 9(1), 25-32.

Taofiq, O., González-Paramás, A. M., Martins, A., Barreiro, M. F., & Ferreira, I. C. (2016). Mushrooms extracts and compounds in cosmetics, cosmeceuticals and nutricosmetics—A review. Industrial Crops and Products, 90, 38-48.

Taofiq, O., Heleno, S. A., Calhelha, R. C., Alves, M. J., Barros, L., Barreiro, M. F., … & Ferreira, I. C. (2016b). Development of mushroom-based cosmeceutical formulations with anti-inflammatory, anti-tyrosinase, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Molecules, 21(10), 1372.

Wu, Y., Choi, M. H., Li, J., Yang, H., & Shin, H. J. (2016). Mushroom cosmetics: the present and future. Cosmetics, 3(3), 22.

Yan, Z. F., Yang, Y., Tian, F. H., Mao, X. X., Li, Y., & Li, C. T. (2014). Inhibitory and acceleratory effects of Inonotus obliquus on tyrosinase activity and melanin formation in B16 melanoma cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014.

Zhang, K., Meng, X. Y., Sun, Y., & Guo, P. Y. (2013). Preparation of Tremella, Speranskiae tuberculatae and Eriocaulon buergerianum extracts and their performance in cosmetics. Deterg. Cosmet, 36, 28-32.