You may be wondering, “mushrooms in skincare?” but don’t worry! Mushroom extract is a common ingredient in many skincare and beauty products. Many mushrooms are safe for topical and oral use, due to their antioxidant and ultra-hydrating properties.
Specifically, reishi mushrooms extract. Reishi mushrooms are full of nourishing properties, especially for those with eczema, psoriasis or atopic dermatitis. Reishi mushrooms contain amazing hydration properties and also boost and plump the skin for maximum suppleness.
Below, we will go over what exactly are rieshi mushrooms, why you should incorporate them into your routine, and which reishi mushroom products are best.
What Are Reishi Mushrooms?
Rieshi mushroom’s scientific name, Ganoderma lucidum, is Latin for “shiny” or “brilliant”. This refers to the gleaming appearance on the mushroom’s surface. Reishi has also been in herbalism for over 4,000 years in China and Japan.
Since ancient times, reishi was found to hydrate the skin, restore moisture loss and contains anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, reishi mushrooms are also known as the “mushroom of immortality” due to their use in Asia to cure infections and even fight cancer.
They are found commonly on decaying hardwood trees in temperate and subtropical areas. Most often, they are found on fallen logs, stumps and at the bases of living trees.
What Are the Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms in Skincare?
Antioxidant Properties
Free-radical exposure, especially long term speeds up the process of aging signs and even possible illnesses. Amazingly, reishi mushrooms contain protective antioxidants, including polysaccharides, ergothioneine and glutathione. These antioxidants protect the skin from free radical damage and prevent premature aging signs. Repairing and fixing your skin barrier is of utmost importance, more so when we age and get older due to our bodies not producing as much to protect from sun damage.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
In addition, reishi mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory properties which soothes acne, redness and puffiness. It is also great for those with psoriasis and eczema prone skin, relieving irritations. Especially in the summer months, persistent inflammation may occur in the body, leading to a weakening in our skin’s defense system. As a result, implementing reishi mushrooms into your routine, especially a sensitive skincare routine is extremely beneficial.
Helps Fade Hyperpigmentation and Discoloration
Kojic acid is a derivative of reishi mushrooms, which helps brighten the skin tone. Furthermore, kojic acid is an alternative to chemical skin lighteners (hydroquinone). Kojic acid also prevents the production of melanin in the skin, thus preventing and fading hyperpigmentation spots.
How to Use Reishi Mushroom in Your Skincare Routine
Reishi mushroom extract is completely safe to use morning and night. It is also safe to use with most, if not all, ingredients! As a bonus, reishi mushrooms help the body create ceramides, a protective layer which runs over the skin.
Thus, reishi mushrooms help keep moisture in and other harmful irritants out. As we age, our body’s natural levels of ceramides decrease. Meaning, it is important to nourish your skin with effective and clean skincare.
Moreover, reishi mushroom extract is found in many skincare products, lotions, powders and supplements. Reishi mushroom extract supplements are known to boost energy levels, improve cholesterol and boost the immune system!
Products That Contain Reishi Mushroom
Flora & Noor’s Boost & Brighten Vitamin C Cleanser and Super Glow Gel Moisturizer both contain reishi mushroom, as well as vitamin C, gotu kola, aloe vera and more amazing ingredients. All Flora & Noor products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, halal certified and Leaping Bunny Certified.
The Boost & Brighten Vitamin C Cleanser is perfect for cleansing away impurities and debris, while also promoting collagen production and protecting the skin’s barrier from free radical damage. Furthermore, this cleanser reduces pores and acne, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The Super Glow Gel Moisturizer helps fade away hyperpigmentation and refines skin texture. It also reduces wrinkles and protects against environmental stressors. This nourishing moisturizer is amazing to wear by itself or as a base for makeup!
