Why mushrooms are the new anti-ageing allies of your beauty routine

A good luck charm in some cultures, the reishi mushroom, known as the "mushroom of immortality," is prized for its anti-aging properties in cosmetics. Photo: AFP

In the forest, in the kitchen and even in fashion, mushrooms are everywhere. They are even poised to become the new stars of your beauty routine.

Prized for their nourishing and anti-ageing properties, as well as for their natural origin, they are a treat for skin and hair that is dehydrated or suffering the effects of seasonal weather.

Some people don't find them particularly appetising, yet mushrooms have unsuspected benefits, both for skin and for health in general. This has not escaped the attention of the beauty industry, which has made them an essential ingredient in oils, soaps, serums, hair masks, creams and more.

In fact, mushrooms are finding their place in a host of cosmetics, sharing the benefits of their moisturising, antioxidant, revitalizing, soothing and firming properties, depending on the variety you choose.

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Reishi and chaga mushrooms

Many mushroom species are said to have skin benefits, such as tremella or shiitake, which come straight from Asia. But the beauty industry is particularly interested in reishi and chaga mushrooms.

The former, sometimes known as the "mushroom of immortality", is considered a miracle ingredient in Japan, South Korea and China, and is said to fight against dry and dehydrated skin, signs of skin ageing and redness.

Chaga fungus, meanwhile, is rich in antioxidants, and is also considered a great ally against the signs of ageing, redness and external aggression.

Highly prized, these two ingredients are gradually being used in cosmetics, particularly in Europe and the US.

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Chanterelles and button mushrooms

More surprisingly, other species of mushrooms are being carefully studied by the cosmetics industry, and are already making their way into some beauty products.

This is the case of the chanterelle, rich in vitamins and potassium, which has become a must-have in hair care. Or so promises the Madara Cosmetics brand, having made it a key ingredient in one of its ranges designed to repair, nourish and protect hair.

The common white mushroom, sometimes called a button mushroom – and more commonly found on pizzas than in cosmetics – is not to be overlooked either, as it is said to have protective properties thanks to its high vitamin and mineral content.

The Lush brand has made use of these benefits with a protective, nourishing and revitalizing solid oil.

Not content with revolutionising the fashion industry, by serving as the source of a new vegan and eco-responsible material, mushrooms could now be set to shake up the beauty industry, and become the star ingredient of 2023. – AFP Relaxnews