What is Prickly Pear Seed Oil?

Prickly pear seed oil is cold-pressed from the tiny seeds of the prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica). This organic variant is unrefined, meaning nothing is filtered out, and comes from Morocco. The color ranges from golden yellow to warm amber.

The scent is soft, nutty and slightly earthy. In a blend, you barely notice it.

The oil is naturally packed with linoleic acid and vitamin E. This keeps skin soft, supple and smooth, without a greasy layer. A fine, luxurious addition to a homemade facial oil or eye serum.

What are the benefits of Prickly Pear Seed Oil?

Protects against aging

The substantial dose of vitamin E neutralizes free radicals, keeping skin looking fresh for longer.

Restores dry skin

Linoleic acid replenishes the skin's natural fats and limits moisture loss, so rough patches become supple again.

Soothes redness

Plant sterols such as β-sitosterol have a soothing effect, pleasant for red or sensitive skin.

Absorbs quickly without shine

The unsaturated fatty acids ensure the oil absorbs rapidly and leaves a silky, matte finish.

Great for blemishes

Linoleic acid makes sebum more fluid, so pores are less likely to clog and skin looks calmer.

More stable DIY blends

Vitamin E also works as a natural antioxidant in your blend and helps your homemade serum stay fresh longer.

How to use Prickly Pear Seed Oil?

Face: a small amount on lightly damp skin, morning or evening. As a booster in an oil serum: 2-10%.

Eye contour: a tiny amount, gently pressed onto clean, dry skin, preferably in the evening.

Cream or serum: 0.5-5% in the oil phase. Add once the formula has cooled (below 40°C), this preserves the vitamin E.

Body or massage: use undiluted, or blend 50-90% with a carrier oil such as jojoba for better glide and faster absorption.

Hair ends and cuticles: rub a small amount between your fingers and distribute over dry ends or cuticles for shine and softness.

What makes Prickly Pear Seed Oil so special?

The seeds contain only 3 to 5% oil. One liter requires around 30 kilos of seeds, from hundreds of kilos of prickly pears. This is why this oil is so rare and so rich in natural antioxidants.