Prickly Pear Seed Oil

Commonly known as:   Prickly Pear Oil, Nopal Oil, Opuntia Oil, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Seed Oil (I.N.C.I.)

Botanical name:   Opuntia ficus indica.

Extraction process:   First cold press.

Family:   Cactaceae.

Extracted part of the plant:   Seeds / Pips.

Cultivation area, origin:   Originally from Mexico but also found around the Mediterranean basin.

Blooming:   From spring to summer.

Origin, provenance:   Morocco.

Phytochemical composition:   Tocopherol (Vitamin E), polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid, linolenic acid), monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, palmitoleic acid), saturated fatty acids (palmitic acid, stearic acid), sterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol).

Sensory properties:   Appearance: Oily liquid; Color: Yellow to green depending on the harvest region; Scent: Natural (characteristic of cold pressing and dissipates very quickly after application), slightly acidic and pungent; Feel: Dry (absorbs very quickly into the skin).

Physical properties:   Quality: 100% pure, virgin, and of natural origin ingredients; Density: 0.9 - 0.93 g/cm3; Insoluble in water; Comedogenicity index: 0 (non-comedogenic); Saponification index: 180 - 195 mgKOH/g; Oxidative potential: Stable with an induction time of 8.3 (110°C, 10 L/h).

Concerns:   Tightening, firming, softening, regenerating, antioxidant, toning, nourishing, revitalizing, anti-aging, emollient.

Effect:   All skin types can benefit, but it is particularly recommended for mature, sensitive, and dehydrated skin. It can also help with dark circles and puffiness. It is beneficial for dry, brittle, and weakened hair, as well as for brittle nails.