Common Name(s): Hericium erinaceum extract,hericium erinaceum (lion's mane) extract,ngf-stimulating mushroom,nerve growth factor cognitive beauty
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Stimulates endogenous ngf production in skin neurons through hericenone/erinacine pharmacology, provides immunomodulation from beta-glucan dectin-1 receptor activation, and delivers antioxidant protection from the mushroom phenolic complex — particularly relevant for neurocosmetics targeting skin sensory health.
Why It's Used: Lion's mane is the only mushroom known to stimulate ngf synthesis — the hericenone/erinacine compounds specifically activating the ngf promoter through the mevastatin signalling pathway, providing a unique neuroprotective and neurogenic cosmetic mechanism.
How It Works: Hericenones c-h (benzaldehyde derivatives): activate trka (ngf receptor) indirectly through endogenous ngf upregulation. erinacines a-i (diterpenes): cross the blood-brain barrier equivalent in skin dermal tissue stimulating hns1 (nerve stimulating protein) gene expression → ngf synthesis. beta-glucan (1,3-1,6): dectin-1 → trained immunity → improved skin immune surveillance.
Typically Found In: Neurocosmetics,anti-aging,scalp care
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – antioxidant
Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Lion's mane ngf applications: primary pharmacological documentation is for neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement — topical skin application leverages the same ngf stimulation for skin sensory neuron health and neurocosmetics positioning.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,hericium erinaceum lion's mane ngf anti-aging review