When looking at the benefits of mushrooms, it would probably be easier and quicker to talk about what they can’t do, rather than what they can. Fungi offer so many different compounds and benefits for overall health, and medicinal mushrooms offer numerous beauty benefits, helping us to nourish our skin from within. Mushrooms can help us de-stress, support detoxification, give us that glow and strengthen our hair and nails.
Medicinal mushrooms are rich in active compounds that have antioxidant, anti-ageing, skin-brightening, moisturising and anti-inflammatory effects, so cover much of the bases when it comes to beauty support. Many common skin problems like sensitivity, dryness, hyper-pigmentation and wrinkles are the result of chronic inflammation, which mushrooms can help to combat with their anti-inflammatory effects. Mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides like beta-glucans which are renowned for their moisture-drawing benefits, offering natural hydration, supporting the skins protective barrier function and its ability to retain moisture. Beta-glucans can also reduce inflammation and help to calm irritated skin. Mushrooms are also rich in vitamins and minerals like selenium which protect the body from free radical damage that can lead to premature ageing.
# HydratingIs your skin going through a bit of a dry spell recently? Consider mushrooms your next holy grail ingredient. Mushrooms are just as hydrating as some of your other cherished, classic ingredients. Mushrooms contain a polysaccharide that is just as powerful as hyaluronic acid when it comes to plumping, smoothing, and hydrating your skin. This leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple all day long.
# Acne-FightingNo matter how hard you try, blemishes are almost inevitably bound to pop up here and there, no pun intended. Next time you have some stubborn breakouts making their home on your face, reach for a skincare product with mushroom. Mushrooms are high in vitamin D, the vitamin known for promoting clearer, healthy skin. Vitamin D also has healing properties when applied topically, making mushroom-based skincare products the perfect way to treat, heal, and prevent acne.
# BrighteningWho would have thought a food as gray and dull as mushrooms would be the secret to brighter, more radiant skin? Some varieties of mushrooms contain kojic acid, a natural skin lightener. Kojic acid inhibits melanin production, lightening new skin cells as they are formed. This is also great for acne scars, as they can lighten over time. Rather than turning to harsh ingredients to lighten and brighten your skin, consider mushrooms for a brighter, refreshed complexion.
# Anti-AgingThe fountain of youth might not be at your local grocery store, but mushrooms certainly are. As mentioned, kojic acid is a natural skin lightener, which helps decrease hyperpigmentation from age spots over time. Mushrooms are also antioxidant-rich, protecting your skin from free radicals. This keeps your skin healthy and protected, allowing it to not be as susceptible to premature aging.
# Anti-InflammatoryIf you struggle from skin conditions, skincare products that include mushrooms might be a great new try. Mushrooms offer anti-inflammatory benefits, soothing your skin and its irritation. The antioxidants and compounds in mushrooms give it a powerful anti-inflammatory power, making it an excellent treatment for inflammation-driven conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and acne.