Chapter 6: Applications of Mushrooms in Cosmeceuticals

The cosmetic industry is constantly on the lookout for natural components or extracts with relevant bioactive qualities that may be used to create cosmeceutical formulations. Mushrooms have been extensively researched in terms of their nutritional value and therapeutic effects. They are a rich source of terpenoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, polysaccharides, ergosterol and minerals, as well as vitamins. Because of their key components, they have also been explored for their cosmeceutical potential, although to a lesser extent. Many reports have shown the potential use of mushrooms or their extracts in cosmetic preparations owing to their anti-oxidant, anti-wrinkle, skin-whitening and hydrating properties. However, only limited exploration of mushroom species has been done, and further exploration is needed in the future. In this chapter, various examples of mushrooms have been discussed along with their potential cosmeceutical applications.