While Korean skincare remedies have been making a splash in the beauty world over the past few seasons, it looks like an unexpected new ingredient may be joining the lineup.

Officially called tremella fuciformis, the mysterious tremella mushroom is a species of fungus which is known for its hydrating benefits. In fact, this highly absorbent mushroom is said to absorb up to 500 times its weight in water. As a result, tremella may offer moisturizing benefits to dry, dehydrated and irritated skin.

In an interview with Marie Claire, the founder of Glow Recipe skincare Christine Chang described the benefits of this mushroom. According to Chang, dry tremella will immediately return to its original state, after being soaked again.

Tremella is also said to be enriched with polysaccharides, molecules which can boost your mood and support balanced levels of blood sugar. As well, the mushroom contains vitamin D and is said to offer antioxidant benefits.

Although tremella may not be a household ingredient for skincare just yet, this mystery mushroom is quickly making its way into products. Beauty lovers may want to watch out for tremella, which can be found in creams and could possibly be a solution for your skincare woes.

Photo: iStock