L'prickly pear oil is extracted from the seeds ofOpuntia ficus-indica. It belongs to the family of vegetable oils and is one of the rarest and most precious oils in existence, for a very practical reason: a ton of fruit yields only a minimal amount of oil because the seeds are small and contain very little of it.
It holds the record for vitamin E among vegetable oils, making it a particularly effective antioxidant against the oxidation of skin lipids. It is also exceptionally rich in linoleic acid, which the skin uses to build the ceramides of the barrier, and in plant sterols that help maintain elasticity.
It is suitable for mature skin and skin that has lost elasticity, particularly as part of a nighttime routine, when the skin is more receptive. It has a surprisingly lightweight texture for such a rich oil: it absorbs quickly and does not leave a greasy film.
The plant grows in arid environments, and its seeds store the reserves needed to germinate under difficult conditions: it is this concentration of resources that is found in the oil. An ingredient to use in minimal quantities, where a few drops work as effectively as a generous amount of an ordinary oil.
On our blog, you can find an in-depth article aboutprickly pear oil, properties and skincare benefits.
