Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1517908
68 ASCP Skin Deep Spring 2024 Cordyceps You may negatively associate Cordyceps with HBO's zombie apocalypse series The Last of Us, but the parasitic fungus, which grows on the larva of insects, has many useful benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, it's used to treat kidney disease, among other ailments. Modern research suggests Cordyceps may be an effective treatment for autoimmune diseases and cancer. 12 "Cordyceps contain a variety of benefits to support skin health," Hu says. "From skin brightening properties and skin elasticity improvement to moisture retention and anti-inflammatory effects, cordyceps is a multifunctional fungus." Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, studies have also shown that cordyceps may be helpful in treating eczema. 13 Tremella Also known as "silver ear" or "snow fungus," Tremella mushrooms feature a jelly-like texture and whitish- yellow color. They are typically found in tropical climates and are used in traditional Chinese medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects. 14 In skin care, Tremella's superpower is its ability to hydrate. "Tremella mushrooms have high water-retention properties, which assist in enhancing skin hydration and more moisturized-looking skin," Hu says. "The hydration properties also contribute to the skin's collagen production and elasticity, making for firmer and more youthful-looking skin." She adds that Tremella's antioxidant levels help fight free radicals, which can reduce the appearance of dark spots and signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. Shiitake One of the most common edible mushrooms, shiitake is native to East Asia but is also produced in other countries, including Canada and the US. 15 When consumed, shiitake can be a good source of fiber and B vitamins, and dietary supplements containing the mushroom claim to help with inflammation. 16 According to Hu, shiitake's high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants make it a popular anti-inflammatory skin care ingredient, which can be particularly helpful for fighting acne. "The anti-inflammatory components in shiitake mushrooms that help exfoliate skin, curb acne-causing bacteria from forming, and regulate oil production are all pivotal factors in attacking acne from a natural ingredient standpoint," she says. "It's a one-stop shop for fighting acne." Shiitake mushrooms also contain the skin- lightening compound kojic acid, which Hu says can be helpful in combating hyperpigmentation. MUSHROOM SKIN CARE VS. FUNGAL SKIN CONDITIONS If all the skin and health benefits of fungi seem in conflict with the fungi that cause various skin conditions, that's because they are different fungi altogether. Unlike edible mushrooms like shiitake or lion's mane that grow in nature and have become popular skin care ingredients, other types of fungi live naturally in the skin. According to Hu, when the immune system is weakened, these fungi, such as dermatophytes or candida, can lead to skin infections.