Tremella - the new buzz-word of the beauty industry

Creams and serums containing the powerful fungi have been popping up more and more on the market over the last 12 months and the rise of mushroom skincare seems here to stay.

But are these beauty products actually worth your money? Or is taking the product in its purest form the best way to sustain, healthy, hydrated and glowing skin. Let’s find out.

The Tremella mushroom, scientific name Tremella Fuciformis, is a unique sponge-like fungi typically found growing in the tropical regions of Asia and Oceania. Instantly recognisable by their bright white jelly-like exteriors, they grow most commonly on dead or dying logs and have been used for their beauty-boosting properties in areas of Asia for centuries.

Skin Hydration

What makes the Tremella mushroom special however, is its unique ability to hold up to 500x its own weight in water. The compounds found in Tremella, including polysaccharides and beta-glucans, have strong water retention capabilities, helping to maintain moisture, reduce dryness on the skins surface and provide a plumping and moisturising effect. It is for this reason that many people often refer to Tremella as a natural alternative to hyaluronic acid.

Antioxidant properties

Tremella contains potently high levels of antioxidants. This is great for the skin, as antioxidants help to fight against damaged caused by free radicals. Damage caused by free radicals can accrue over time unless treated and this can lead to dryness, blotches of redness in the skins pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. By actively combatting the production of free radicals, Tremella can contribute to a more even skin tone by reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, with many users reporting a notable difference when it comes to the radiance and evenness of their complexion.

Collagen Production

Collagen is the backbone of retaining healthy bones, teeth, nails, hair and skin. On a basic level, collagen is a protein naturally produced in the body that provides structure to the aforementioned areas. However, the rate of natural production decreases as we age, so ensuring collagen production is maintained at a certain level is paramount for the health of our skin. Tremella has been found to support the production of ‘type 1’ collagen naturally, by boosting collagen synthesis, Tremella helps to maintain the structure of the skin and can contribute to its elasticity and firmness.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Inflammation is the body's natural response to fight against allergens, however prolonged periods of inflammation can lead to issues with the skin such as irritation, redness, dryness and swelling. Cytokines, cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) are inflammatory mediators that play a crucial role in the inflammatory response. Compounds such as terpenoids, found in abundance in Tremella, can help to regulate the release of these enzymes. By doing so, Tremella can contribute towards a reduction in inflammation and help to mitigate redness and swelling on the skins surface.