The skincare world is fascinating. Mushroom serum is just another example of the evolution of new ingredients and products that feel like they emerge daily. One of the most buzzed-about ingredients in recent years is mushrooms. I’m not talking about the magic variety that could send you to wonderland with Alice.
Chaga mushroom, snow mushroom, reishi mushroom, and other fungi are making their way into the skincare world and are becoming increasingly popular ingredients.
What Is Mushroom Serum?
Serums are a skincare staple. They come in all shapes and forms, the most popular contain ingredients like vitamin c, hyaluronic acid, or kojic acid, but their primary purpose is hydration and preventing dry skin.
Mushroom serums rely on the power of wild mushrooms, filled with natural compounds, each of which is believed to offer unique benefits for every kind of skin concern like:
- Hydration
- Combating dark spots
- Attacking wrinkles and fine lines
- Adding moisture and improving skin elasticity
- Acne-fighting
Mushroom serums are becoming a go-to for many people looking for natural alternatives for looking younger. But before you throw away your moisturizer, I will explain a little of the science behind mushrooms to find out if they’re what your face has been looking for.
The Science Behind Mushroom Serum
Mushrooms have been medical staples in traditional medicines from all corners of the world for thousands of years. People have eaten and drank elixirs made out of mushrooms since history has been recorded for every ailment imaginable.
Why is mushroom making their way into the world of skincare? Aren’t enough ingredients already? Well, there are many reasons behind their explosion, like the interest in vegan compounds, the fight against parabens, and, principally, the mounting clinical studies that prove that our ancestors were right in trusting mushrooms to fight disease and enhance well-being.
Let’s get to know the natural compounds that may answer your skin texture prayers.
Beta-glucans
Beta-glucans are polysaccharides that are constituents of the cell wall of mushrooms. Numerous studies have demonstrated they provide multiple skin benefits, including improved hydration and moisture retention, collagen production stimulation, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, regenerative effects, immunomodulation, and healing effects. Their study started years ago, focusing on the immune system, but their skin care benefits keep unfolding as scientists continue to study them.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants, like vitamin E, are another active ingredient found in mushroom serums. Antioxidants aid in skin protection by fighting free radicals damage, which can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
Melanin
An often overlooked asset of mushrooms is their melanin content. Melanin, a massively used ingredient in sunscreens, helps the skin barrier by protecting against UV light, a significant cause of dermatological issues like aging and redness.
Research on the skin benefits of mushrooms is an ongoing enterprise. I will keep updating this post as new studies are released, but let me give you a few tips if you’re considering incorporating a mushroom serum into your beauty routine.
Incorporating Mushroom Serums into Your Daily Routine
If you want to incorporate snow mushroom serum or snow mushroom water serum, both made out of the tremella mushroom, here are a few steps to consider.
- Cleanse: Clean skin is vital to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil that may be present.
- Tone: Toner helps balance your skin’s pH and prepare your pores for the serum.
- Apply Serum: Take a few drops of the mushroom serum and apply it to your face, neck, and décolletage. Gently massage the serum into your skin until it is fully absorbed.
- Moisturize: Finish by applying a moisturizer to help lock in the benefits of the serum and hydrate your skin.
Depending on your skin type and the specific benefits you want, you may apply the mushroom serum in the morning or night.
Every skin type is unique; what works for one person may not work for you. My hot tip is that it’s best to patch-test a small skin area before incorporating a mushroom serum into your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin, to ensure you don’t experience any adverse reactions.
Please consult a medical specialist before experimenting with new ingredients. Take care of your beautiful face.
