As we introduce more products to our natural range of skincare, haircare and fragrance, that also means introducing additional upcycled ingredients to be given a new lease of life.
We’ve covered everything from upcycled hemp seed oil and clove leaf oil to date seeds and apricot kernel oil, and now we’re tackling prickly pear extract for skin.
What is prickly pear extract?
You’d be forgiven for recoiling as you hear ‘prickly pear’ and ‘skincare’ in the same sentence. But rest assured, there’s no spikes when the extract is used in formulations!
Prickly pear is also known as Opuntia and is a type of cactus. Known for flavourful fruit and flamboyant flowers, prickly pear is a genus of flowering plants in the cactus family Cactaceae. There are over 150 species of prickly pear cactus across the world.
Native to North and South America, prickly pear species have also been introduced to other regions across the globe. They are found in abundance in countries like Mexico.
7 prickly pear extract skin benefits
Prickly pear extract is a versatile and powerful ingredient that supports skin hydration, elasticity, and radiance while providing protection against environmental stressors and inflammation. Discover the seven top prickly pear benefits for skin.
1. Deeply hydrating
Prickly pear has a naturally high water content which helps to provide immediate hydration when applied to the skin. This water content helps to replenish the skin's moisture levels, making it feel refreshed and plump.
Polysaccharides in prickly pear extract form a protective film on the skin, helping to retain moisture. This film acts as a barrier that reduces water loss through the skin, ensuring that the hydration provided lasts longer.
Prickly pear extract acts as a natural humectant, attracting moisture from the environment into the skin. By drawing moisture to the skin, this extract helps to maintain the skin’s hydration levels.
2. Helps to fight free radicals
Free radicals are unstable molecules with unpaired electrons that can cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA. The unpaired electrons steal electrons from other healthy molecules in a process known as oxidation.
The body naturally produces free radicals during metabolic processes, but they can also be introduced to the body through external sources like pollution, UV radiation, and tobacco smoke.
Excessive free radical activity can lead to oxidative stress. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals by donating electrons, which helps to prevent or minimise cell damage.
Prickly pear extract contains a high concentration of vitamins E and K, as well as polyphenols, which help to neutralise free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
3. Works as an anti-inflammatory
The extract contains compounds, such as linoleic acid (omega 6) and vitamin E, that have anti-inflammatory properties. This helps to reduce redness, swelling, and irritation of the skin, making it beneficial for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Linoleic acid helps to maintain the skin's natural barrier by supporting the production of ceramides – lipids which are essential for the skin barrier’s integrity. A strong skin barrier is essential to stop bacteria and infections in their tracks.
4. Promotes skin elasticity
Prickly pear extract is known for its ability to promote skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This is due to its high antioxidant content and vitamins.
Additionally, the amino acids in prickly pear extract help to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, enhancing the skin's elasticity and resilience.
Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining the skin elasticity you have achieved. The high water content and humectant properties of prickly pear extract ensure that the skin remains well-hydrated, plump, and soft.
5. Brightens your complexion
The extract can help to even out skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots, leading to a brighter and more radiant complexion.
Prickly pear extract is rich in vitamin C, which is known for its skin-brightening properties. Vitamin C inhibits an enzyme involved in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone. By reducing melanin production, it helps to lighten hyperpigmentation and brighten the overall complexion.
6. Has healing properties
The rich content of vitamins and antioxidants in prickly pear extract helps to accelerate the healing process of minor cuts, burns, wounds, and blemishes.
The extract's ability to promote collagen production also supports wound healing. Collagen is a key protein involved in the repair and regeneration of skin tissue. Enhanced collagen production helps to encourage the faster closure of wounds and improves skin integrity.
Prickly pear extract also has a soothing effect on the skin, providing relief from discomfort. This is particularly beneficial for healing irritated or sensitive skin.
7. Helps to protect the skin barrier
The extract supports the skin's natural barrier function, helping to retain moisture and protect against environmental aggressors. Packed with essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, prickly pear extract nourishes the skin and enhances its vitality and overall health.
A healthy skin barrier helps to prevent transepidermal water loss, keeping the skin hydrated from within.
Deodorant with prickly pear cactus extract
We took note of all that prickly pear extract has to offer and decided to incorporate it into a product launch – a Natural Deodorant.
Our new refillable, baking soda-free deodorant, is crafted with macadamia oil and upcycled prickly pear. This innovative deodorant is packaged in 100% plastic-free materials and is gentle on sensitive skin.
Macadamia oil provides deep nourishment and hydration, while upcycled prickly pear soothes and protects the skin. With delicate citrus notes, this deodorant not only keeps you feeling fresh but also uplifts your senses.
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