Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract?

Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract comes from the fruiting body of the elegant netted stinkhorn mushroom, Dictyophora indusiata. The mushroom is rich in water-binding polysaccharides, beta-glucans that calm skin, amino acids that support the surface barrier and trace minerals that add a small nutrient boost. For centuries it has appeared in Asian cooking and folk care for its calming and hydrating nature. As the beauty world searched for gentle plant and fungal actives, formulators noticed these properties and began adding the extract to skin care.

To make the cosmetic grade ingredient, the mushroom caps are cleaned, dried then steeped in water or a water-glycerin mix to pull out the soluble sugars. The liquid is filtered, concentrated and balanced with a preservative so it stays stable in a jar or bottle. The finished extract dissolves well in water-based systems which makes it easy to slip into hydrating serums, light moisturizers, soothing masks, anti-aging concentrates and after-sun gels.

Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking mushroom extract offers several helpful actions in skin care formulas.

  • Antimicrobial: Its natural compounds limit the growth of unwanted surface germs which supports product freshness and can help keep blemish-prone skin clearer
  • Humectant: The polysaccharides pull moisture from the air and bind it to the skin giving a plump smooth look and adding immediate softness
  • Skin Conditioning: Beta-glucans and amino acids soothe irritation and reinforce the skin’s protective barrier which can reduce redness and improve overall comfort

Who Can Use Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract

This extract is gentle and water based which makes it a good match for most skin types. Dry skin benefits from its humectant action, oily and combination skin appreciate its light non-greasy feel while sensitive skin enjoys the calming beta-glucans. There are no known reasons it would be unsuitable for mature or acne-prone skin unless you happen to be allergic to mushrooms or other fungi.

The ingredient is derived entirely from a plant-like source and no animal derivatives are involved during processing so it fits vegan and vegetarian standards.

No data suggests that the extract poses a special risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used topically and in normal cosmetic amounts. Absorption through intact skin is expected to be minimal. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full product label to a qualified healthcare professional before adding it to their routine just to be safe.

Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract does not increase photosensitivity. You can use it morning or night without worrying about extra sun sensitivity though daily sunscreen is always a smart idea for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to the topical use of Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract can vary from person to person. The points below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a product.

  • Mild redness or stinging in very reactive skin especially if the barrier is already compromised
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sensitivity to mushroom proteins or polysaccharides
  • Itching or small bumps in people who have a pre-existing fungal allergy
  • Interaction irritation when layered with strong exfoliating acids or prescription retinoids in the same routine

If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1. Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract is a water-based, sugar-rich ingredient with virtually no oils or waxes that could clog pores. Its lightweight polysaccharides sit on the skin surface, draw in moisture then rinse away easily, so the chance of it blocking follicles is very low.

Because of this minimal pore-clogging potential it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

Keep in mind that the finished product formula matters; if the extract is blended into a heavy balm or cream the overall comedogenicity may rise even though the extract itself is nearly non-comedogenic.

Summary

Dictyophora Indusiata Fruiting Body Extract acts as an antimicrobial, humectant and skin-conditioning agent. Natural compounds in the mushroom gently suppress surface microbes, its polysaccharides pull water into the upper layers for instant hydration and the beta-glucans and amino acids soothe and support the skin barrier.

The ingredient is still a niche player compared to big names like hyaluronic acid yet it is popping up more often in Korean hydration serums, calming masks and clean beauty gels as formulators look for fresh botanical options.

Topical use is considered very safe for most skin types with low risk of irritation or pore blockage. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to do a quick patch test when trying a product that contains it just to be sure your skin agrees.

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