Mushroom Extract

Best

Plant extracts

Mushroom Extract at a glance

  • Potent source of antioxidant compounds to reduce signs of aging
  • Known for soothing properties that benefit sensitive, redness-prone, reactive skin
  • No single best mushroom extract to seek out—there are several beneficial species
  • Only a small amount is needed to obtain benefit

Mushroom Extract description

Mushroom extracts have been making their way into skin care formulations for years, and thanks to advancements in biotechnology, scientists are unlocking new ways of tapping into their potential for skin. Beneficial compounds commonly found in mushroom extracts cultivated all over the world can improve numerous concerns such as skin discoloration, dryness, wrinkles and a compromised barrier. Of note, key antioxidants such as glutathione and ergothioneine, found in many mushroom extracts, improve skin’s response to pollutants and external threats to its immune system. This makes skin stronger and healthier, helping to keep the body’s first line of defense in top shape. There’s no single best mushroom extract to seek out—rather, there are several species that benefit skin. Keep in mind mushroom extracts may be listed by their Latin name or common name. For example, _Ganoderma lucidum_ is a skin-friendly mushroom extract that is more widely known by its common name, Reishi. The same goes for Northern Truffle (_Albatrellus confluens_) and Snow Mushroom (_Tremella fuciformis_)—both of which are incredibly soothing for skin, among their other benefits. Mushrooms extracts are processed in a way that eliminates the water component (whole mushrooms that you’d buy in the grocery store generally contain over 90% water, which is why they shrink when cooked). In extract form, only a small amount is needed to obtain benefit. Most of the mushroom extracts used in skin care are also edible. As such, they’re considered safe for use on skin, and allergic reactions to mushrooms when eaten are considered uncommon.

Mushroom Extract references

  • Archives of Dermatological Research, September 2023, pages 1,883-1,886 
  • Biosciences Biotechnology Research Asia, June 2023, pages 381-394 
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2021, pages 4,052–4,059 
  • International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 2022, pages 1–13
  • Molecules, January 2022, pages 1–14
  • Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicines, March 2019, pages 203-209
  • International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, January 2015, pages 526-530

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.