Mushrooms Are the Secret Ingredient Your Skin-Care Routine Has Been Missing

It’s no secret that stress can show up in a lot of different places—including our skin. “When stress levels go up, complexion can lose its luster,” explains Eminence Organics Lead Skin Care Trainer, Natalie Pergar. “Common ways stress shows up on the skin include redness, irritation, breakouts, dryness and decreased radiance.”

Enter the brand’s Pure Forest Collection, which features three new products that hit shelves in September. Inspired by the restorative and soothing nature of Pure Forest formulas, the portfolio provides targeted solutions for stressed, tired skin via adaptogens like ashwagandha, tulsi, reishi and snow mushroom, as well as hydrating birch water and protective botanical actives.

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And the link is clear: “The Pure Forest Collection helps mitigate the appearance of stress from all angles,” says Pergar. “As well as enhancing relaxation with a ritual that revitalizes the senses through tranquil scents and restorative textures, it contains adaptogenic ingredients that help visibly replenish and renew the skin.”

Pergar is particularly proud of the products’ adaptogenic ingredients, which the brand considers “the heart” of the collection. “They are harnessed to enhance the mind-body connection, transform the appearance of the complexion and calm the visible effects of stress,” she explains, adding that mushrooms are the powerhouses in the portfolio, and they offer incredible benefits to the skin.

“Snow mushroom acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin. This plant can hold hundreds of times its weight in water, leaving the skin looking smoother and more supple. Beyond that, it helps support the skin’s natural barrier function, protecting against environmental stressors and resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion.”

And then there is shiitake mushroom, which Pergar coins an antioxidant powerhouse. “This vitamin D–packed mushroom helps ward off the appearance of environmental stress, like the look of inflammation, dryness and visible fine lines and wrinkles.”

Considered the “superstar” when it comes to protecting the skin’s moisture barrier,” Pergar also gives high remarks to reishi mushroom. “It contains a high concentration of polysaccharides, which improve hydration, as well as being a powerful source of antioxidants, which help reduce puffiness,” she says.

Beyond the magic of the mushrooms, Eminence Organics is also hanging its hat on a handful of other A-list adaptogens. “Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is a plant that offers a range of benefits for the skin due to its potent antioxidant properties that improve the look of skin,” Pergar says. “It can help with cleansing by removing impurities, excess oil and dirt from the skin. Tulsi improves the look of problem skin as well, and helps prevent future breakouts. It also contains vitamin C, which can brighten the look of skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots.”

In addition, ashwagandha—an Ayurvedic herb also known as “Indian ginseng,” which dates back more than 3,000 years, also plays a key role. “This plant can help deeply cleanse the skin of impurities and improve the appearance of breakouts,” Pergar explains. “It also benefits dry skin, as the hyaluronic acid in its roots deeply hydrates, helps lock in moisture and improves elasticity.”

While the better-skin benefits are well documented, so are the overall head-to-toe wellness ones, which the brand says were crafted with “precision and purpose.”

“This portfolio reflects a holistic approach to wellness—one that purifies and restores stressed skin while nurturing a deeper mind-body connection,” Pergar says. “At home, the ritual begins with adaptogenic ingredients that calm, hydrate and rebalance, transforming daily care into a moment of intentional renewal. In the spa, these same formulas are elevated through expert techniques, creating immersive treatments that soothe both body and mind. It’s more than skin care—it’s a sensory experience designed to support overall well-being.”

Impressive, yes, but Pergar says solid research and consumer insight is also present—and that has been steadfast since the early formulation stages. “What stood out most during testing was the harmony between luxurious textures, soothing scents and clinically-proven results. Whether used in spa treatments or at home, the new form factors elevate the experience while purifying, replenishing and reinforcing the skin’s natural defenses. It’s a modern ritual that meets real skin needs—beautifully.”