These products target different skin types and challenges.
Mushrooms have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. Lately, they can be found playing a key role in face masks, washes, serums, and anti-aging treatments. Varieties like tremella, reishi, chaga, argarikon, and truffle harbor properties that can purportedly help a multitude of conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema. The nutrients from mushrooms also provide a significant amount of moisture, says Gervaise Gerstner, MD, a New York City–based dermatologist.
Here, six mushroom-based products for varied skin types and challenges:
For pore minimizing...
The product: Chantecaille Detox Clay Mask
The mushroom: argarikon
This treatment uses argarikon mushroom extract, a fungi variety known for defending itself against harmful parasitic bacteria, to help rebalance skin. Argarikon is an ideal ingredient for those who experience breakouts because of its ability to act as a natural astringent and minimize pores, says Gerstner. Other mask ingredients like rosemary and honey soothe and nourish.
For reducing redness...
The product: Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying Serum
The mushroom: truffle
This ultralight serum is made with truffles—a sought after mushroom variety found only a few months out of the year— and specially formulated for acne-prone skin. Truffle’s essential fatty acids help keep skin soft and reduce redness caused by blemishes. This results in a more even complexion, explains Gerstner. Stash it in your gym bag and apply in the locker room post-shower.
For dry skin...
The product: Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum
The mushroom: tremella
Tremella mushrooms are super water-dense and provide a rehydrating component to this jelly-like serum. The formula also uses the Bakuchiol plant to aid in cell turnover and regeneration, which will leave your skin soft and your complexion glowing, says Gerstner.
For a vitamin boost...
The product: Joanna Vargas Euphoria Face Mask
The mushroom: tremella
Not only will infusions of tremella extract help hydrate the skin without causing congestion, the mask contains vitamin D and antioxidants for more youthful-looking skin, she says. Coupled with chamomile that soothes and aloe vera that hydrates, this is a great mask to recharge skin after a long haul flight.
For exfoliation...
The product: Moon Juice Beauty Shroom Exfoliating Acid Potion
The mushroom: reishi
"Reishi mushroom, considered an anti-inflammatory ‘super mushroom,’ works alongside a combination of acids and Vitamin B3 to minimize the appearance of pores and visibly resurface the skin," explains Gerstner.
For countering pollution...
The product: Supermood Egoboost Gentle Foam Wash
The mushroom: chaga
This formula uses bacteria-fighting chaga mushrooms—found on the bark of birch trees—to help remove dirt without dehydrating, says Gerstner. Citric acid is added to help brighten the skin.