Why Mushrooms and Skincare: What the Shroom Boom really means

This is definitely the year (or decade?) of the mushroom. The green beauty movement is well underway and with it, is the recognition that superfoods and natural ingredients are powerful tools that we should be using in our skincare and beauty routines.

From Chaga and Reishi to Turkey Tail and Cordyceps, there are thousands of mushrooms that are scientifically proven to boost our health both inside and out.

While we love eating mushrooms (we’re not talking about the magic ones), what we’re really interested in is the rise of mushroom ingredients within our skincare. Luckily it’s 2023 and you don’t need to go foraging for mushrooms in order to get your hands on them.

In fact, mushrooms are no longer restricted to expensive health food stores and are instead making their way onto the shelves of mainstream cosmetics shops. Many of our favourite brands - like Origins and Shishido - are now recognizing the magic of mycelium and incorporating them into leading products. And, as the demand for natural skincare ingredients continues to rise, this certainly won’t be the last time you’ll be hearing about these fun-gi’s.

The history

Like many powerful natural ingredients, using mushrooms in skincare isn’t a new concept. The history of using these organisms stretches back to Eastern civilisations and Chinese medicine, which used mushrooms for centuries in their remedies. Through these ancient traditions, the healing benefits of nutrient-rich mushroom compounds have long been acknowledged. There are even records of many ancient civilisations, such as Egyptians, Greeks, Vikings and Romans, using medicinal mushrooms within their cultures.

While mushrooms have been used for centuries around the globe, when we cast our attention to the modern world, it appears that mushrooms only began impacting Western beauty products in the early 2000s. Dr Weil - a pioneer in alternative medicine - was one of the first to promote the benefits of fantastic fungi in skincare (but more on him later!) There has since been an overwhelming boom in amazing products brimming with mushroom goodness.

Fun Fact: When you picture mushrooms you are probably just thinking about the fruiting body that pokes above the ground. However, the term mycelium refers to the interwoven web of underground branches that many (but not all) mushrooms are connected to. It’s estimated around the world, that there are trillions of miles of mycelium branches beneath our feet.

Strength in Skincare

Rich in antioxidants and brimming with anti-inflammatory properties, the proven benefits of mushrooms have sparked a mycelium movement within the beauty world.

Not only are many mushrooms proven to benefit humans when ingested, but they also contribute to protecting our skin and making sure it’s in good condition. In general, the biggest benefits that mushrooms provide are moisture, natural vitamins and minerals that help our skin feel soft and supple.

Many mushrooms are considered adaptogens, which means that they help the body adapt by encouraging balance and regulating our cells. This means that many mushrooms are the perfect magic ingredient when dealing with skin inflammation and the impact of hormones.

In fact, there have also been several studies that demonstrated their aesthetic values. For example, less than a decade ago scientists discovered that mushrooms minimized signs of ageing. Another study concluded that the antioxidant compounds can reduce the impact of free radicals on our skin, helping us look and feel better.

There are literally thousands of species of mushrooms (if you're interested, check out the work of mycologist Paul Stamets) but here are the main types you might spot in your favourite products.

Chaga: This powerful organism is actually considered one of the most antioxidant-rich mushrooms on the planet and contains phenolic acids and melanin that reduce the effects of UV damage on our skin.

Reishi: This is a tiny organism that is brimming with goodness that promotes the signs of anti-ageing. In fact, Reishi is sometimes known as the “Mushroom of Immortality” because it improves health and longevity. Not only that, but it also contains powerful antioxidants called ergothioneine and reduced glutathione that fights the effects of fine lines and sun damage, while calming and relieving sensitive skin.
Cordyceps: This is a powerful treatment for inflammatory skincare conditions such as eczema which also boosts collagen and keeps our skin ultra-hydrated.

FACT: Not only are they powerful in skincare, there’s even a type of fungi called Pestalotiopsis microspore that eats plastic. Mushrooms really are going to save the world!

mushroom-mad brands

One of the biggest cheerleaders of mycelium-infused skincare is none other than Origins. A heavyweight of natural ingredients, it’s almost unsurprising that this amazing brand pioneered a hugely popular mushroom line almost two decades ago. What’s more, the brand’s three favourite shrooms are Chaga, Reishi and Cordyceps.

Remember Dr. Weil, the specialist that we mentioned earlier? He in fact teamed up with Origins in 2005 to create a skincare line that specifically harnesses the power of mushrooms. What Origins came up with is a stellar range that incorporates the three main mushrooms to deliver a product that is brimming with antioxidants and nutrients. Their Mega-Mushroom line includes a treatment lotion that soothes your skin, a face serum that calms redness and a barrier boosting moisturizer.

“Dr. Andrew Weil believes inflammation is the root cause of visible skin concerns like irritation. He also believes Mushrooms have the power to fight irritation. That's why he helped us create our Mega-Mushroom formulas.” - Origins.

Another prominent brand that has recognized the importance of mushroom magic is Shishido. The iconic brand's signature Ultimune Power Infusing Serum Concentrate is brimming with the ‘mushroom of immortality’, reishi. Thanks to its polysaccharides, the mushroom provides a powerful dose of hydration that fights signs of ageing.

The future of the ‘Shroom Boom’

Mushrooms are really having a moment right now, and rightly so! What’s more, we don’t think this trend is going anywhere soon.

Steeped in centuries of history, it looks like the potent power of mushrooms has firmly made an impact on the skincare world. What’s more, as we fully start to embrace more natural products as part of a more sustainable future, we think mushrooms will play a huge role in that.

So what are you waiting for? Here’s to the future of shroomy skincare!

FACT: As the writer of this article, I just wanted to share my personal mushroom routine. Every day, I take reishi tinctures as I believe the medicinal values can help boost my immune system. What’s more, I use Origin’s Mega-Mushroom soothing lotion and face cream as part of my daily routine. While I can only speak from my own experience, I’ve noticed an improvement in the way my skin looks and how I feel. You know what? For good measure, I’m going to cook a shiitake mushroom risotto tonight as well.