Ingredient review
Dung Fungus Mycelium Extract
INCI: CYATHUS STERCOREUS MYCELIUM EXTRACT
A novel fungal extract with antioxidant potential, but research is still early and benefits are not yet proven in human studies.
In plain English
This ingredient comes from a type of fungus that grows on dung. In skincare, it's used as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental damage and as a soothing agent to calm irritation. Because it's a newer ingredient, most of what we know comes from lab studies, not large human trials.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- biotech
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Dung Fungus Mycelium Extract is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Dung Fungus Mycelium Extract.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
A mycelium (root-like part of a fungus) extract from the species Cyathus stercoreus, cultivated in a lab. It contains bioactive compounds like polysaccharides and phenolics that may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, it is thought to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage skin cells) and reduce markers of inflammation, potentially helping to calm redness and support a healthy-looking complexion.
Pros
Antioxidant potential
Lab studies suggest it can neutralize free radicals, which may help protect skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV.
Soothing properties
Early research indicates it may reduce inflammation, making it a candidate for calming redness or sensitivity.
Cons and cautions
Limited human evidence
Most data comes from lab or animal studies; there are no large-scale human trials confirming its benefits in skincare.
Novelty factor
As a new ingredient, long-term safety data is sparse, and it may not be as effective as more established antioxidants.
Best for
- Those interested in novel, biotech-derived ingredients
- People looking for antioxidant support in their routine
Use caution if
- Anyone with known fungal allergies (though rare)
- Those who prefer ingredients with strong clinical backing
Usage tips
Safety summary
Based on limited data, it appears to have low irritation and comedogenic potential. However, due to the lack of extensive safety studies, it is best used in low concentrations and patch-tested first.
Research notes
Research is in early stages. A few lab studies show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, but no peer-reviewed human trials on topical use were found as of 2025.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Generally considered safe for cosmetic use in low concentrations, but not specifically reviewed by the FDA or EU CosIng as a novel ingredient.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Eye creams
- Environmental note
- Produced through fermentation, which has a lower environmental footprint compared to wild-harvested botanicals.
Good to know
- This ingredient is produced via fermentation, making it a sustainable biotech option.
- It is not derived from the fruiting body of the fungus, but from the mycelium grown in a controlled lab environment.
Common questions
What is Dung Fungus Mycelium Extract in beauty products?
This ingredient comes from a type of fungus that grows on dung. In skincare, it's used as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental damage and as a soothing agent to calm irritation. Because it's a newer ingredient, most of what we know comes from lab studies, not large human trials.
What does Dung Fungus Mycelium Extract do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, it is thought to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage skin cells) and reduce markers of inflammation, potentially helping to calm redness and support a healthy-looking complexion.
Is Dung Fungus Mycelium Extract safe for most people?
Based on limited data, it appears to have low irritation and comedogenic potential. However, due to the lack of extensive safety studies, it is best used in low concentrations and patch-tested first.
Who should be careful with Dung Fungus Mycelium Extract?
Anyone with known fungal allergies (though rare) Those who prefer ingredients with strong clinical backing
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.