Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient rejuvenates skin through multifaceted mechanisms. It acts as an anti-aging agent by significantly inhibiting elastase activity and reducing matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1 and MMP-3), which are key enzymes in collagen and elastin degradation. Concurrently, it upregulates tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) and tropoelastin expression, promoting skin's structural integrity. It also enhances type I collagen (COL-1) production and inhibits TPA-induced MMP-1 expression by suppressing p38 activity. Its potent antioxidant capacity is demonstrated by a reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and efficient scavenging of DPPH free radicals, attributed in part to its polysaccharide content. Anti-inflammatory benefits include suppressing UV-induced epidermal hyperplasia, decreasing mast cell infiltration, and down-regulating inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. For skin brightening, it inhibits melanin production, reduces oxidative stress, and improves objective skin brightness parameters (L* values and ITA°), with kojic acid naturally present contributing to dark spot lightening. Polysaccharides further enhance skin hydration by strengthening the skin's natural barrier and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while supporting PPAR-α expression aids in skin repair.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Extract of Tricholoma matsutake mycelium significantly decreased elastase activity in a dose-dependent manner and reduced the levels of MMP-1 and MMP-3 in human fibroblasts. It also increased TIMP-1 and tropoelastin expression and inhibited TPA-induced MMP-1 expression by suppressing p38 activity, suggesting anti-wrinkle effects.
- 02 Tricholoma matsutake extract (TME) significantly alleviated UVA/UVB-induced erythema and wrinkles. It suppressed UV-induced epidermal hyperplasia, reduced collagen damage, decreased mast cell infiltration, down-regulated inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α), upregulated type I collagen (COL-1), inhibited UV-induced apoptosis, and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS).
- 03 Oral administration resulted in a significant reduction in melanin index and an increase in skin brightness (L* values and ITA°). Participants showed potent antioxidant activity (25% reduction in ROS, 96% DPPH free radical scavenging), an 18% increase in skin elasticity, a 22% decrease in wrinkle depth, a 15% improvement in skin hydration, and protection against UV-induced photoaging.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The ingredient demonstrates optimal stability within a slightly acidic pH range, typically between 4.0 and 6.5. This range is conducive to its mycelial growth and extract production, indicating good compatibility with common cosmetic formulations.
Safety
Safety Profile
While formal safety reviews by CIR, SCCS, or FDA are not available, related ingredients such as 'TRICHOLOMA MATSUTAKE MYCELIUM FERMENT EXTRACT' are rated with 'No penalty' across all categories by INCI Beauty, suggesting a generally good safety profile with low irritation potential.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Tricholoma Matsutake Mycelium is an essential multi-functional ingredient, clinically supported to deliver significant anti-aging, brightening, hydrating, and protective benefits with excellent skin compatibility.
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References
Sources