At present, the pursuit of cosmetics requires naturalness, greenness, safety, and high efficiency. Ganoderma lucidum has shown many biological effects, indicating that its application in cosmetics will produce many beneficial effects. Thus, the development of cosmetic products containing G. lucidum has become a research hotspot. Given the biologically active components of G. lucidum, such as polysaccharides and total triterpenoids, different traditional and combined extraction methods are identified. In addition, the efficacy of G. lucidum as an antioxidant, anti-aging, whitening, spot-reducing, anti-sensitivity, anti-inflammatory, anti-radiation, anti-frostbite, water replenishment, and moisturizing component, as well as in combating scalp problems, is described in detail. Cosmetic products containing G. lucidum, which are already available in the market, are also summarized. We believe that studying the effects of G. lucidum other than being an antioxidant and anti-aging component, as well as their proteins and other biologically active ingredients, potential biotransformation, and union with other disciplines, can expand the market of cosmetic products containing G. lucidum and provide insights into the development of cosmetic research on G. lucidum.

Hericium erinaceus is a nutritious edible and medicinal fungi, rich in a variety of functional active ingredients, with various physiological functions such as antioxidation, anticancer, and enhancing immunity. It is also effective in protecting the digestive system and preventing neurodegenerative diseases. In this review paper, we summarize the sources, structures and eff icacies of the main active components in H. erinaceus fruiting body, mycelium, and culture media, and update the latest research progress on their biological activities and the related molecular mechanisms. Based on this information, we provide detailed challenges in current research, industrialization and information on the active ingredients of H. erinaceus. Perspectives for future studies and new applications of H. erinaceus are proposed.