Process and Values

In the Pacific Northwest, there still exists vast natural resources. We are blessed to be one of the world’s best places to forage wild functional and edible mushroom species. Whenever possible, we spend the days exploring the peaks and valleys of these endless primordial forests for the potent ingredients that power our unique skincare solutions. Some of the most obscure and effective mushroom species cannot be easily cultivated, and require the entirety of the forest eco-system to complete their complex life cycles.

Since the wild cannot provide everything necessary for our products, we work hard to ensure that all cultivated ingredients are 100% organic, and ethically-derived. Supporting organic farming not only keeps nasty chemicals off your skin, but also keeps nasty agricultural chemicals out of our soil. Whats more, organisms grown organically tend to display far more antioxidant capacity and nutrient-density, the natural result of diverse soil structure, and the inherent struggle against pests and disease.

Any product containing water and/or biological material is a natural substrate for the growth of mold and bacteria. Obviously, we love fungi, but we work hard to keep our skincare products free of these harmful organisms. For this reason, we have opted to preserve our solutions with a combination of probiotics and natural preservatives. Our creams and serums use a combination of Lactobaccilus, fermented radish root & coconut fruit extract to essentially occupy the space these organism would need to set up shop. For an added layer of protection, we add gluconolactone (a natural coagulant used to make tofu), and a small amount of sodium benzoate (the edible salt that allows you to keep hot sauce out of the refrigerator).

Any commercial endeavor will impact ecology. Fruiting Bodies Skincare ensures that we minimize negative externalities from our production processes by choosing organic supplies, buying local and using plastics as sparingly as possible. Plastics are a disruptive force to our human biology and the larger ecosystem. All biodegradeble waste is composted.

When it comes to mushrooms, there is still a lot to learn. It is speculated that only 10% (or even as low as 5%) of fungi species have been described scientifically. Still, the number of studies and clinical trials highlighting the health benefits and ecology of mushrooms is promising and ever-increasing. These studies, along with traditional knowledge, have allowed us to craft unique products that leverage these benefits.