Mydło do twarzy - czy to naprawdę dobry wybór?

January 27, 2026

Facial soap - is it really a good choice?

by Anna Wasilewska - founder of the Orientana brand

Facial soap is still considered a universal skin cleanser. For many, it's synonymous with purity, simplicity, and effectiveness. In practice, however, facial skin has completely different needs than the skin on your hands or body. It's thinner, more delicate, and much more susceptible to imbalances.

As the creator of the Orientana brand, I've observed for years that one of the most common causes of skin problems—such as dryness, hyperreactivity, or recurring blemishes—is improper cleansing. Very often, the source is the daily use of conventional soap.

Therefore, it is worth asking yourself: is facial soap actually good for the skin or is it harmful to it?

What is the pH of facial soap and what is the pH of the skin?

Classic soaps are made by saponifying fats with sodium hydroxide. The result is a product with an alkaline pH, usually around 9-10 .

Meanwhile, healthy facial skin functions best in a slightly acidic environment, with a pH of around 4.7-5.5 . This acidic pH supports:

proper functioning of skin enzymes,
tightness of the hydrolipid barrier,
microbiome balance.

Each time you use alkaline soap, it temporarily raises the skin's pH, weakening its natural protective mechanisms.

Check out the Gentle SLS and soap-free facial cleansing gel:

Contains natural surfactants (e.g. glucosides) that do not disturb the skin barrier.

What happens to your skin when you regularly wash your face with soap?

With prolonged use of facial soap, the following may occur:

feeling of tightness and dryness,
peeling of the skin,
burning and hypersensitivity,
increased sebum production,
worsening acne,
greater tendency to irritation.

The skin, deprived of natural lipids, begins to defend itself by overproducing sebum or developing inflammation.

What happens to the hydrolipid barrier when you use facial soap?

The hydrolipid barrier is a thin layer of lipids, ceramides, cholesterol, and water that protects the skin from excessive moisture loss and the penetration of irritants. Its proper functioning depends largely on maintaining an acidic pH.

Facial soap, due to its alkaline reaction, causes:

loosening the structure of intercellular lipids,
increased permeability of the epidermis,
easier penetration of bacteria and contaminants,
weakening of natural regenerative mechanisms.

With regular use, the skin loses its ability to self-regulate. It becomes both dry and oily, which many people mistakenly interpret as "the need for even more cleansing."

Check out the Facial Cleansing Foam:

Facial soap and the skin microbiome

Billions of microorganisms that make up the skin's microbiome live on its surface. They help maintain proper pH and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Alkaline soap:

reduces the number of "good" bacteria,
promotes the growth of microorganisms associated with acne,
may increase inflammation.

That's why modern facial cleansing products increasingly contain prebiotics , such as inulin, which support the balance of the microbiome.

Is there a good face soap?

There are so-called natural facial soaps available on the market, but even they retain an alkaline nature. While they may be gentler than classic drugstore soaps, they are not optimal for daily facial cleansing .

Modern care is based on products that effectively cleanse while not disturbing the skin's physiology.

Try the face wash gel with particles

Why does my skin become oily faster after washing with soap?

This is a classic skin defense mechanism.

Soap removes protective lipids.
The skin perceives this as a threat.
The sebaceous glands begin to produce more sebum.

Effect: the skin is dehydrated and oily at the same time.

Many people now turn to even stronger cleansing products, which only worsens the problem.

Skin hydration vs. moisturization - learn the difference and take care of your skin consciously

If you use makeup or sunscreen, you must:

Does facial soap accelerate skin aging?

Yes - indirectly.

Weakened barrier:

retains water worse,
loses elasticity faster,
becomes more susceptible to the effects of free radicals.

Long-term dryness contributes to the formation of fine wrinkles and loss of firmness.

The skin's hydrolipid barrier - how does it work and how to rebuild it?

What to wash your face with instead of soap?

The best alternative are cosmetics based on mild cleansing substances and caring ingredients.

You can find all products in the Facial Cleansing category
https://orientana.pl/collections/oczyszczanie-twarzy

Orientana Gentle Facial Cleansing Gel

The formula based on mild plant surfactants effectively removes impurities and sebum without disturbing the skin barrier.

Why is it a good alternative to facial soap?

does not contain SLS or soap,
supports the proper pH of the skin,
contains moisturizing and soothing ingredients.

What is Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS)?

Key ingredients and their effects:

Betaine - moisturizes and soothes
Gluconolactone (PHA) - gently exfoliates and has antioxidant properties
Date extract - protects against oxidative stress
Eclipta prostrata - relieves inflammation
Green tea water - has anti-inflammatory properties
Inulin - supports the microbiome
Fructose - a component of NMF

Orientana facial cleansing foam

This foam is especially effective for dry, sensitive, and mature skin. It has a light consistency and doesn't cause a tight feeling.

Orientana Makeup Remover Oil (OCM)

The OCM method is based on the principle of "fat dissolves fat." Oils effectively remove makeup and sebum while nourishing the skin.

Gel with cellulose particles

For people who prefer the feeling of a more thorough cleanse, but without aggressive peeling.

How do natural cleansing cosmetics work?

Natural gels and foams use mild plant-based surfactants that:

effectively remove impurities,
do not damage the hydrolipid barrier,
help maintain the proper pH.

Additionally, they contain moisturizing and soothing ingredients, making cleansing the first step in skincare.

Differences between soap and modern cleansing cosmetics

Facial soap

alkaline pH
lack of moisturizing ingredients
it has mainly a "degreasing" effect

Gel / foam / oil

pH close to skin
contains humectants, emollients and soothing substances
cleanses and nourishes at the same time

How to choose a cosmetic for your skin type?

Dry skin: foam or oil
Oily skin: gentle gel
Sensitive skin: SLS-free gel or foam
Acne-prone skin: PHA gel
Mature skin: foam + oil

Can you wash your face with soap sometimes?

One-time use – yes. Everyday use – no. Regular use of soap leads to a gradual weakening of the skin barrier.

What does a proper facial cleansing ritual without soap look like?

In the morning:

delicate gel or foam
toning

In the evening:

makeup removal oil
gel or foam as the second step

This regimen allows you to thoroughly cleanse your skin without disturbing its balance.

The most common ingredients in soaps that can be harmful

Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium Palmate / Cocoate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Alcohol Denat.
EDTA

Summary

Facial soap isn't the best choice for your skin. Modern skincare emphasizes gentle gels, foams, and oils that cleanse without disturbing the skin's natural balance.

See the full Orientana cleansing offer:

FAQ

Is facial soap good?

No, because its pH is too high.

Is natural soap better?

It is milder, but still alkaline.

What is the best way to wash your face?

With a delicate gel, foam or oil.

Does soap cause acne?

May intensify changes.

What pH should facial cosmetics have?

About 4.5–5.5.

Can children and teenagers wash their faces with soap?

Young skin also has a hydrolipid barrier. Soap can disrupt it and promote the development of acne. It's best to teach gentle cleansing from the beginning.

Bar soap vs. liquid soap - is there a difference?

Slightly. Both products are typically based on the same chemical principles and have an alkaline pH.

Can you use facial soap in emergency situations?

A one-time treatment, yes. However, once you get home, it's worth using a skincare product that restores skin balance.

How quickly does skin regenerate after stopping soap?

The first positive changes can be noticed after 7–14 days:

less feeling of tightness
better hydration
calmer skin

Full reconstruction of the barrier usually takes several weeks.

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Tags: bariera hydrolipidowa bez sls crueltyfree demakijaż kosmetyki bez parabenów kosmetyki bez parafiny kosmetyki bez silikonów kosmetyki naturalne kosmetyki orientana kosmetyki w ciąży mydło oczyszczanie olejek do demakijażu orientana ph skóry pielęgnacja skóry pielęgnacja w ciąży polska marka kosmetyków

Ajurwedyjskie olejki do masażu twarzy, ciała i skóry głowy – zdrowie i uroda w jednej butelce - Orientana

January 27, 2026

Ayurvedic oils for facial, body and scalp massage - how to use them every day

Ayurvedic massage oils are one of the easiest ways to incorporate Ayurvedic-inspired care into your daily routine. They don't require specialized knowledge or lengthy ceremonies—the key is regularity, mindfulness, and matching the oil to your skin's needs and well-being. In Ayurveda, massage is considered a part of daily health care, and oil serves as a carrier of plant ingredients and supports the skin's natural barrier. This makes skincare less of a cosmetic treatment and more of a moment of pause and regeneration. If you are interested in why oil massage works and what mechanisms are behind it , check also: Effectiveness of Ayurvedic massage oils - how do they work? How to use Ayurvedic oils - face / body / scalp Facial massage Apply 2–3 drops of oil to slightly damp skin on your face and neck. Spread it between your hands, then use gentle, upward and outward motions to smooth the oil from the center of your face. Mini-instructions: forehead - movements from the center to the temples cheeks - up and out jaw - from the chin towards the ears Time: 2-3 minutes. Body massage It is best to apply the oil after bathing, when the skin is slightly damp. arms and legs - long, sliding movements belly - clockwise back - movements from bottom to top Time: 5 minutes. Scalp massage Apply a small amount of oil to your fingertips and rub in circular motions over the entire surface of your scalp. Time: 3-5 minutes. Checklist - when to use the oil ✔ when the skin is dry or tight ✔ for fatigue ✔ before bed ✔ after bathing ✔ in periods of increased stress When is massage particularly helpful? when the skin is dehydrated with a feeling of tightness for dull skin for dry hair ends when the facial muscles are tense Regularity is more important than intensity. How often should you use Ayurvedic massage oils? Face: daily Body: 2-3 times a week Scalp: 1-2 times a week In winter the frequency can be increased. Step-by-step rituals - morning / evening / weekend Morning ritual (2–3 min) Facial cleansing Tonic or essence Oil Short massage Evening ritual (5 min) Makeup removal Serum Oil Face and neck massage Weekend ritual (10-15 min) Oiling the scalp Facial massage Body oil Oil comparison: which one for what? The need for skin Oil dryness sesame sensitivity almond relief coconut problematic skin neem tiredness oils with adaptogens Ayurvedic oils and the season Winter - thicker and more nourishing oils Spring - light, regulating Summer - coconut, almond Autumn - soothing and regenerating Can the oil be combined with serum and cream? Yes. Order: cleansing → tonic → serum → oil → (optional cream and oil on top) Common Massage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them too much pressure excess oil irregularity haste Examples of massage sequences for different skin types Dry skin slow movements, nourishing oils Sensitive skin light stroking, soothing oils Oily skin shorter movements, light oils Cosmetic oils - natural care from Orientana Summary Ayurvedic massage oils are a simple way to incorporate a daily skincare ritual that supports the skin on your face, body, and scalp. Regular massage improves skin comfort, helps maintain its elasticity, and introduces a layer of conscious self-care. FAQ How to use Ayurvedic massage oils? Apply a small amount to the skin and massage gently. Can Ayurvedic oils be used daily? Yes, especially on the face. How much oil should I use for facial massage? 2–3 drops. Should the oil be applied to wet or dry skin? Preferably slightly damp. How long should a facial massage last? 2–3 minutes. Are oils suitable for sensitive skin? Yes, with the right selection. Can the oil be used on the scalp? Yes. How often should you oil your scalp? 1–2 times a week. Do Ayurvedic oils clog pores? Not if they are well chosen. Can the oil be combined with the serum? Yes. When is the best time to get a massage? Morning or evening. Does facial massage improve the appearance of skin? Yes. Do Ayurvedic oils help with dry skin? Yes. Can a body massage be done after bathing? Yes, this is the best moment. Does regularity matter? Yes, crucial. Mineral oil - why doesn't Orientana use it in natural cosmetics? Sesame oil - properties and use in modern skin and hair care

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Tremella fuciformis- roślinny kwas hialuronowy i naturalny eliksir młodości - Orientana

January 26, 2026

Combination skin and hydration without clogging. How does Tremella work in practice?

Combination skin is one of the most demanding skin types. On the one hand, it can cause a shiny T-zone, while on the other, it can cause tightness, roughness, and dry patches on the cheeks. Many people try to combat this by using increasingly stronger mattifying cosmetics. Paradoxically, this often leads to worsening skin condition. Why? Because the root of the problem isn't "too much sebum," but a lack of water in the epidermis . Therefore, the key to improving the condition of combination skin isn't aggressive degreasing, but moisturizing without weighing it down or clogging it . This is where formulas based on Tremella come in particularly handy—an ingredient that acts as a light hydrating layer and supports the skin's barrier. See cosmetics from Tremella: Why is combination skin so often dehydrated? The skin produces sebum to limit water loss. When the hydrolipid barrier is weakened, water quickly escapes the epidermis, and the sebaceous glands receive a signal to produce more sebum. As a result: the skin shines, pores become more visible, at the same time there is a feeling of tension and dryness. This is a classic skin defense mechanism that is easily confused with "oily skin." Symptoms of dehydration in combination skin If you notice several of the following, your skin probably needs hydration first and foremost: shiny in the T-zone, but tight after washing, dry skin despite using cream, makeup highlights the texture of the skin, a few hours after treatment, the skin feels "thirsty" again, pores are more visible after aggressive gels and tonics. Why does classic dulling often make the situation worse? Strongly degreasing products: remove protective lipids, weaken the skin barrier, accelerate water loss. The skin begins to produce even more sebum to protect itself. It's a vicious cycle. A much better solution is to provide the water with a "place" to stay , i.e. use light humectants. How the Tremella Orientana Series Came to Be? A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Creation of Moisturizing Formulas What role does Tremella play in the care of combination skin? In cosmetics, Tremella acts primarily as a light humectant , an ingredient that binds water and retains it in the epidermis. It creates a delicate, breathable film on the skin's surface that: reduces transepidermal water loss, improves skin comfort, does not give a heavy or greasy effect. This makes it perfect for daily care of combination skin. Moisturizing vs. clogging – what’s the difference? Many people associate moisturizing with greasy creams. However: moisturizing = supplying and binding water, lubrication = creation of a protective layer with lipids. Combination skin most often needs to be moisturized first and only then very lightly "sealed" with a cream. Why is Tremella called the plant equivalent of hyaluronic acid? How to incorporate Tremella into your daily routine? Morning - - version under makeup Gentle cleansing Tremella Serum as a hydrating layer Light cream thinly (or only on the cheeks) Effect: skin is moisturized, calm and less shiny during the day. In the evening - regenerating version Cleaning Serum Cream thinly If the skin is very tight, you can add a second thin layer of cream only to the dry areas. After acids or retinoids Very gentle cleansing Serum Barrier cream mask It is worth limiting other active ingredients for a few days. Serum, cream or mask - what to choose for combination skin? Product form When is the best How to use Serum when you want light hydration as the first layer Cream when you feel tight thinly or locally Mask in case of severe dehydration 1–2 times a week When does moisturizing increase sebum shine? Most often when: the cream is too heavy, you apply too thick a layer, you skip the light hydration step and apply the cream straight away. Solution: less product and lighter textures. Tremella and other ingredients for combination skin Tremella works well with: niacinamide (sebum regulation), azelaic acid (imperfections), ceramides (barrier), aloe (soothing). How long to wait for results? The first feeling of comfort - often immediately. Improved skin balance - usually after 2–4 weeks of regular use. The most common mistakes in the care of combination skin washing "until it squeaks", skipping moisturizing, too heavy creams, too many assets at once. Who is Tremella particularly suitable for? people with combination and dehydrated skin, people who glow but feel tight, people over 30–40 years of age, people using acids or retinoids. FAQ Is Tremella suitable for combination skin? Yes, because it moisturizes without weighing it down. Does Tremella clog pores? Usually not. Is Tremella good under makeup? Yes. Is it better to choose a serum or cream with Tremella? Most often, serum is used as the first layer. Can Tremella replace hyaluronic acid? In many routines, yes. Does combination skin always mean excess sebum? No, very often it means dehydration combined with compensatory sebum production. Can skin be oily and dehydrated at the same time? Yes, this is one of the most common scenarios for combination skin. Can moisturizing reduce skin shine? Yes, if it improves the hydration level of the epidermis. Is Tremella suitable for blemish-prone skin? Yes, because it moisturizes without weighing down pores. Does Tremella have a soothing effect? Yes, it supports skin comfort and reduces the feeling of irritation. Is Tremella good after acids and retinoids? Yes, it helps restore skin comfort. Can Tremella be used daily? Yes, morning and evening. Can Tremella be used in summer? Yes, it has a light texture and does not burden the skin. Is Tremella suitable for winter? Yes, especially if your skin is dry. Is Tremella suitable for sensitive skin? Yes, it is well tolerated. Can Tremella be used under SPF? Yes. Does Tremella have anti-aging properties? Indirectly yes, through hydration and antioxidant protection. Does Tremella help with dry cuticles? Yes. Can Tremella be combined with niacinamide? Yes. Can Tremella be combined with azelaic acid? Yes. Can Tremella be combined with ceramides? Yes. Can Tremella be used for acne? Yes, as a moisturizing element. Does Tremella clog pores? Usually not. Does Tremella improve skin elasticity? Yes, by maintaining proper hydration levels. Can Tremella replace hyaluronic acid in your routine? In many cases, yes. Will Tremella work well under makeup? Yes, it improves skin smoothness. Does Tremella work immediately? The first feeling of comfort comes quickly. Is Tremella good for skin after 40? Yes. Is Tremella suitable for thin skin? Yes. Can Tremella reduce tightness? Yes. Is Tremella suitable for men? Yes. Summary Combination skin needs water and calming support above all else, not aggressive mattification. Tremella helps restore balance, providing hydration without clogging or feeling heavy. Check out the Tremella series

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4 kosmetyki do cery mieszanej - jak powstała seria z grzybkiem tremella - Orientana

January 26, 2026

4 cosmetics for combination skin - how the series with tremella mushroom was created

Combination skin cosmetics are a new product that has just entered the Orientan offer. Where did the idea come from? Why is the base ingredient tremella? If you are interested, I will tell you how this series was created - writes: Ania Wasilewska, founder of the brand. Give us cosmetics for combination skin! We want strong hydration! I once met up with my friends for coffee. We were chatting about girly topics and then we moved on to cosmetics - a topic often discussed during our meetings. I then collect feedback from my friends, and they are happy to share it with me, and I know I can rely on their assessment, because they always say what they think. It so happened that most of them had one skin type, because this type often manifests itself in the 40+ period. And so the complaining began... "I can't find anything that's truly moisturizing but doesn't clog pores." "My skin is a joke. Dry here, oily there, and by evening it's tight as parchment again." "My forehead is shiny and I have dry skin around my nose. Nothing works on it for more than two hours." They all had combination skin, and then the question arose: "Why don't you do something to properly moisturize and soothe combination skin?", "Give us cosmetics for combination skin!" And they left me with my problems. I thought, "Okay, I'll look for a leading ingredient, but it has to be something better than hyaluronic acid"! NOTE from Taiwan The question of cosmetics for combination skin was very much on my mind. At Orientana we had a cream for combination skin, but we didn't have a complete series. Besides, I had been thinking for a long time about replacing this cream with something even better. So I started my process with researching the ingredient and started looking through my notes from courses I had attended in Asia. In my notebook I found an entry from Taiwan. I went there quite often because we had a silk sheet mask production there. I also took part in a natural medicine course that I signed up for there. It was one of the stages of my early education. I remembered the lessons on skin moisturising. We drank a delicate, slightly sweet infusion from an almost transparent mushroom resembling a snow cloud. The teacher called it the beauty mushroom. Apparently, this ingredient was used in ancient China as a strongly moisturising ingredient. They said it was like rain for dry land. They ate this mushroom and also made a moisturising tonic from it - very easy to make at home. The Magic Ingredient - Snow Mushroom! It was tremella (INCI Tremella Fuciformis ). A mushroom that can retain water like no other ingredient. Called the snow mushroom or beauty mushroom, it moisturizes better than hyaluronic acid. In addition, it is an edible mushroom, and you know that my rule in creating cosmetics is: apply to your skin and hair what you can eat! I thought that maybe this ingredient would be perfect as a hero ingredient for combination skin cosmetics. Something that will hydrate the skin for a long time , and at the same time will not clog pores and leave a greasy film . A cosmetic that will work on dry and oily skin at the same time. Combination skin needs good hydration, but it also has undesirable symptoms (enlarged pores, local overproduction of sebum), so I set myself the task of creating a series that will take care of combination skin comprehensively - ideal cosmetics for combination skin. Of course, discovering this ingredient is one thing, and preclinical and clinical studies of tremella are another matter. I had to check if it was an ingredient tested for skin and what care results it gives. I started looking for studies. I never base the effects of active ingredients only on knowledge from traditional Asian medicine. All of our ingredients have scientifically proven effects. Tremella - scientific research Tremella in the form of a dried mushroom, absorbs water and increases its volume many times (even up to 10 times). When hydrated, it becomes soft, gelatinous, elastic and transparent - it regains its natural, "gel" consistency. From published scientific reports I have learned that when soaked, tremella releases polysaccharides that partially dissolve in water , creating a slightly viscous, gel-like solution. These polysaccharides (mainly mannoglycans and uronic acids) are responsible for the moisturizing and anti-aging properties. Uronic acids are the building blocks of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which provide skin with elasticity, firmness, and hydration. Studies have shown that tremella is a more effective moisturising ingredient than hyaluronic acid because its molecules are smaller and can therefore penetrate deeper into the skin more effectively. The studies I had access to were studies of the moisturizing properties of polysaccharides from T. fuciformis, confirming their effectiveness in retaining moisture in the skin. It also turned out that tremella has anti-aging effects, partially photoprotective , supporting wound healing and protecting the skin barrier . In vitro studies have shown that polysaccharides from T. fuciformis protect skin fibroblasts from oxidative stress . Studies have shown that Tremella fuciformis contains significant amounts of ergosterol, which is converted to vitamin D₂ when exposed to UVB radiation. One study found that the vitamin D₂ content of mushroom samples exposed to 180 minutes of light was 292.02 µg/g dry weight , which exceeded levels in other popular edible mushrooms such as button mushrooms and shiitake. Moreover, this is due to artificial light, which is provided when the mushroom is grown. Ergosterol has antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and protect skin cells from oxidative stress. Additionally, its presence can support anti-inflammatory effects, which is beneficial in the care of sensitive and irritation-prone skin. Vitamin D₂, derived from ergosterol, plays a role in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier and in the regenerative processes of the epidermis. Its presence can support the healthy appearance of the skin and its ability to retain moisture. Tremella is also a rich source of natural beta-glucans. Beta-glucans are natural sugars made up of glucose units, found in yeast, oats, barley, and mushrooms such as tremella and reishi. In cosmetology and skin care, beta-glucans soothe irritations and inflammations, accelerate epidermal regeneration, strengthen the skin's hydrolipid barrier and stimulate collagen synthesis, improving skin firmness and elasticity. Tremella is a bullseye! Another functional mushroom that has documented skin care properties. Perfect to represent combination skin cosmetics! cosmetics for combination skin - additional ingredients However, to make these the perfect cosmetics for combination skin, I lacked ingredients that would effectively regulate sebum, reduce pores and eliminate imperfections. I chose the best ones. Sebum regulating cream Ingredients: tremella, Niacinamide, Pore out, squalane, jojoba oil, argan oil, butterfly pea Hydrating Serum Elixir Ingredients: tremella, exosomes, lactic acid, aloe, Mask that soothes imperfections Ingredients: tremella, tamanu oil, azelaic acid, glutathione, squalane Nourishing eye cream I complemented the series with a rich eye cream with tremella, ceramides and avocado . When testing the first samples I was very excited because I invited my colleagues to the project. In addition, as usual, almost the entire office tested. The testers were very demanding, we perfected the products for over half a year. We were all delighted with the final effect! I hope you will like this series too. Of course! Here is a chapter on the discovery and use of the Tremella fuciformis mushroom by Americans, with particular emphasis on its properties in dietary supplements: Not only cosmetics for combination skin but also 21st century superfoods Although Tremella fuciformis , also known as snow mushroom, has been a valued ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries, its global career ........ began relatively recently – with the growing interest in functional medicine and adaptogens in the United States. It is American scientists, manufacturers and wellness influencers who have made Tremella a top superfood of the 21st century. American discovery of the "beauty mushroom" In the 1990s, the United States saw a boom in exotic plant and mushroom ingredients that offered more than just nutritional value—they were meant to support longevity, skin health, and immunity. Tremella, previously virtually unknown in the West, caught the attention of researchers because of its unique properties: extremely high polysaccharide content, moisturizing effect comparable to hyaluronic acid, influence on collagen production , and antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects . The first studies conducted at American universities confirmed that Tremella extracts can effectively bind water in the skin, support tissue elasticity and protect cells from oxidative stress. Tremella – a new star on the functional supplement market With a growing interest in adaptogens and functional mushrooms such as reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) , chaga (Inonotus obliquus) and lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) , the American supplement industry quickly recognized the potential of Tremella fuciformis , a mushroom also known as "snow ear" or "white jelly." Initially popular mainly in traditional medicine in East Asian countries, it is now gaining recognition as a natural ingredient supporting health and beauty from the inside. With its unique bioactive profile, Tremella fits perfectly into the global “beauty from within” trend – the concept that skin care begins with balanced action at the cellular and metabolic level. The most frequently declared and researched health benefits of Tremella supplementation include: Moisturizing the skin and improving its appearance Tremella is characterized by the presence of polysaccharides with strong hygroscopic properties, comparable to, and according to some sources even more effective than hyaluronic acid. These ingredients support water retention in the epidermis, contributing to better skin hydration, elasticity and firmness. Antioxidant and detoxifying effect The presence of antioxidant compounds, such as ergosterol, mannitol and the aforementioned polysaccharides, makes Tremella effectively support the neutralization of free radicals. This in turn can support the body's natural cleansing mechanisms and reduce oxidative stress. Slowing down the aging process Thanks to its antioxidant properties and its influence on collagen and elastin synthesis, Tremella can help maintain a youthful appearance of the skin. Its regular use in supplementation can help reduce fine wrinkles and improve skin structure. Strengthening the immune system Studies indicate that polysaccharides from Tremella fuciformis have immunomodulatory effects – they stimulate macrophage activity and increase cytokine production, which translates into better body immunity. Form of occurrence in supplements In oral preparations, Tremella is most often found in the form of an extract standardized for polysaccharide content (usually 30–50%). This form ensures repeatability of action and enables precise dosing of the active ingredient. In dietary supplements, it can be found in the form of capsules as well as powders for preparing a functional drink, sometimes combined with other medicinal mushrooms, vitamin C or collagen. Why did Tremella win the hearts of American consumers? Beyond its health benefits, Tremella fits the American narrative of “clean” and “natural” ingredients —it’s vegan, non-toxic, cruelty-free, and effective. Wellness influencers and healthy lifestyle brands have begun referring to it as “ plant-based hyaluronic acid ,” which has only served to amplify its marketing appeal. So this inconspicuous but beautiful mushroom is the hero of our care. It perfectly supported our cosmetics for combination skin. I hope that the Hydro Tremella cosmetics series will work for you too. Anna Wasilewska - creator and owner of the Orientana brand Some of the research I used: The potential cutaneous benefits of Tremella fuciformis, Archives of Dermatological Research 2023, Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide suppresses hydrogen peroxide-triggered injury of human skin fibroblasts via upregulation of SIRT1, Molecular Medicine Reports, 2017 Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides alleviates induced atopic dermatitis in mice by regulating immune response and gut microbiota, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2022 Tremella fuciformis Inhibits Melanogenesis in B16F10 Cells and Promotes Wound Healing in Human Keratinocytes and Fibroblasts, In Vivo, 2022 Study on the structure characterization and moisturizing effect of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide, Food, science and human wellness, 2021

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Facial soap - is it really a good choice?

What is the pH of facial soap and what is the pH of the skin?

Check out the Gentle SLS and soap-free facial cleansing gel:

What happens to your skin when you regularly wash your face with soap?