Mushroom Extract Complex

Korean skincare often uses extracts from several mushroom species, including Inonotus obliquus, Chaga, Ganoderma lucidum, Reishi, and Sparassis crispa. Each has a long history of use in East Asian traditional medicine, long before being studied in cosmetics. Formulas may combine several species under the name Mushroom Extract Complex or use a specific proprietary blend.

These extracts are rich in beta-glucan polysaccharides, a related but distinct family from the oat- or yeast-derived beta-glucan described elsewhere in this encyclopedia. They also contain antioxidants specific to each species. The polysaccharides support hydration and barrier function similarly to other beta-glucan sources, while species-specific antioxidant compounds, such as triterpenes in Reishi, add protection against oxidative stress.

For dehydrated, dull or environmentally stressed skin that needs hydration and antioxidant support from botanical polysaccharides.

Different mushroom species have different compound profiles despite the shared category name. A formula that specifies Chaga, Reishi or Sparassis Crispa provides more useful information than a label that simply says mushroom extract.