Barbary fig seed oil, a dangerous plant oil?

The prickly pear seed oil is prized for its richness in fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, an omega-6 that helps strengthen the skin barrier and reduce dehydration. Thanks to its vitamin E content, it also aids in neutralizing free radicals that accelerate skin aging. Beyond its nourishing and protective properties, the prickly pear seed oil stands out for its reparative and soothing potential. Studies have shown that it possesses anti-inflammatory properties, reducing signs of irritation and supporting the healing process. Prickly pear seed oil also promotes cellular regeneration by stimulating collagen synthesis and improving skin microcirculation.

Prickly pear seed oil is recommended for dry skin, mature or compromised after sun exposure or irritation.

Prickly pear seed oil is a versatile plant oil suitable for all skin types and can be used in its pure form.

Indeed, prickly pear seed oil can be used on both dry and oily skin since it has a lightweight texture and is non-comedogenic. It also poses no risk during pregnancy : pregnant and/or breastfeeding women can apply it to care for their skin, for example, to improve suppleness in order to prevent stretch marks.

Nonetheless, even if prickly pear seed oil has relatively few contraindications, certain precautions are still necessary. As a precautionary principle, some healthcare professionals advise against its use by individuals with a known allergy to prickly pears, even though a food allergy does not necessarily result in a cutaneous reaction. If in doubt, consult your primary care physician. It is also important to recall that prickly pear seed oil is not a tanning oil, contrary to some common misconceptions. When applied prior to sun exposure, it provides no protection against the UV rays.

Prickly pear oil is well tolerated by most skin types, but like any skincare product, it can in rare cases trigger a cutaneous reaction, such as redness, itching, or irritation. To minimize this risk, it is recommended to perform a patch test the first time you use it: apply a small amount of oil to the inside of your wrist or the bend of your elbow, then wait 24 hours. If no reaction occurs within that timeframe, your skin is not sensitive to prickly pear oil and you can begin incorporating it into your skincare routine. This precaution is particularly important for sensitive or reactive skin, although all skin types stand to benefit from this simple step.

Prickly pear seed oil is also highly susceptible to oxidation, which can compromise its properties and increase the risk of allergic reactions if it becomes rancid. It should therefore be stored in an airtight amber glass bottle, protected from air, light, and heat. Before each use, it is advisable to check its texture and scent: a quality oil should feel lightweight, absorb rapidly, and leave no greasy film on the skin. If it thickens, turns sticky, or emits an unusual odor, it should no longer be used and must be replaced.

• APREA E. & al. Prickly pear seed oil extraction, chemical characterization and potential health benefits. Molecules (2021).

• HARRAK H. & al. Comparative assessment of physical and chemical characteristics of prickly pear seed oil from Opuntia ficus-indica and Opuntia megacantha varieties. Journal of Food Quality (2021).

• LEYENDECKER B. A. Prickly pear seed oil and the skin. The School for Aromatic Studies (2025).