Tremella (Snow Mushroom) Extract — a jelly-like fungus prized in East Asian beauty rituals for centuries and now a modern hydration hero. Rich in polysaccharides (notably β-glucans), Tremella forms a soft, breathable moisture veil on the skin, helping it look plumper, smoother and more dewy—without the heavy feel. If you love the bounce of hyaluronic acid but want a gentler, plant-derived option that also soothes, this is your mushroom moment.
What it does
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Deep, lasting hydration: Tremella’s polysaccharides bind and hold water on the skin’s surface, supporting a cushiony, “freshly misted” look throughout the day.
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Plump & smooth: By topping up surface hydration, it helps soften the look of fine lines and rough patches, giving makeup a tidier lay-down.
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Barrier comfort: β-glucans are known for calming benefits—great when your skin feels tight, irritated or weather-worn.
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Dewy radiance: Consistent use promotes a more even, luminous complexion with that healthy, well-rested glow.
Sensory & suitability
Tremella extracts are typically water-soluble, yielding clear to pale-gold solutions with a silky, slip-enhancing feel. They’re featherlight in gels and essences, never greasy, and play nicely under SPF. Suitable for all skin types, especially dehydrated, sensitive, and mature skins. Oilier types appreciate the hydration without extra weight.
Formulation notes
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Formats: Essences, serums, gel-creams, milky lotions, sheet masks and overnight masks.
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Phase: Add in the cool-down of the water phase.
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pH window: Generally comfortable around pH 4.5–7 (check supplier specs).
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Use levels: Commonly 0.1–2% for extracts; higher for dedicated polysaccharide concentrates.
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Stability: Protect from high heat; pair with supportive antioxidants to keep formulas fresh.
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Texture tip: Tremella can subtly thicken and add slip—handy for elegant, light gel systems.
Complementary actives
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Hyaluronic acid + glycerin: Layered humectants for next-level bounce.
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Niacinamide: Barrier support and tone-evening to enhance that dewy look.
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Ceramides & squalane: Lock in water and cushion the finish.
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Panthenol & allantoin: Extra calm on reactive days.
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Vitamin C derivatives: Brightness without compromising comfort.
Scent, colour & aesthetics
Expect neutral scent and a clear to soft-straw tint depending on concentration. Tremella leaves a refined, non-tacky film that boosts slip and gives a “glass-skin” sheen—ideal in minimalist, glow-forward formulas.
Claims & labelling
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INCI (typical): Tremella fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract / Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide
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Positioning: “Long-lasting hydration,” “plumps the look of fine lines,” “boosts barrier comfort,” “skin-quenching dew,” “vegan hyaluron-like hydration.”
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Free-from friendly: Works in fragrance-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free and vegan systems.
Sustainability & sourcing
Look for cultivated Tremella with documented traceability and low-solvent or water-based extraction. Many suppliers support clean processing and responsible wastewater management—handy talking points for eco-conscious brands.
How to use (consumer)
After cleansing, press 2–3 pumps of a Tremella essence or 2–3 drops of serum into damp skin morning and night. Seal with moisturiser and finish with broad-spectrum SPF in the AM. Expect an immediate silky feel and, with steady use, a visibly bouncier, glowier complexion.
Properties
Moisturizing, Emollient
INCI Name
Tremella fuciformis Extract
