Prickly pear oil: Skin benefits, How to use, and Side effects
Cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica), commonly known as prickly pear, has a rich history spanning centuries and is revered for its numerous health benefits. Originally from Mexico, this desert plant is so popular that nowadays it is cultivated all over the world.
The fruits of this desert fruit contain tiny seeds, from which the oil is extracted. Packed with polyunsaturated fatty acids, this oil is celebrated for its remarkable health-promoting properties.
Unlike most oils, that leave your skin feeling greasy and clogging your pores, prickly pear oil absorbs fast and does not leave your skin feeling oily. Prickly pear oil is an excellent choice for people who want all the skin benefits an oil has to offer, without the worry of clogged pores.
Fatty acid profile of prickly pear oil
The fatty acid composition of prickly pear seed oil plays a huge role in its numerous benefits for skin health.
The oil is particularly rich in linoleic acid, which is essential for the formation of ceramides in the skin. These help maintain the skin's moisture barrier, keeping it hydrated, and maintaining its natural elasticity.
Some fatty acids in this oil also have antioxidant properties that help protect the skin against oxidative stress and free radicals, which can help against signs of ageing.
Many of these fatty acids also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, which are beneficial for various skin conditions.
Here is the approximate fatty acid content of prickly pear seed oil (1):
|
Fatty Acid |
Short notation |
Percentage in prickly pear seed oil (%) |
|
Poly-unsaturated fatty acids |
|
|
|
Linoleic acid |
C18:2 |
66.790 ± 0.782 |
|
Linolenic acid |
C18:3 |
0.268 ± 0.012 |
|
Mono-unsaturated fatty acids |
|
|
|
Oleic acid |
C18:1 |
15.160 ± 0.425 |
|
Erucic acid |
C22:1 |
0.183 ± 0.025 |
|
Palmitoleic acid |
C16:1 |
0.607 ± 0.020 |
|
Saturated fatty acids |
|
|
|
Palmitic acid |
C16:0 |
12.709 ± 0.034 |
|
Stearic acid |
C18:0 |
3.360 ± 0.225 |
|
Myristic acid |
C14:0 |
0.094 ± 0.006 |
The actual percentages of fatty acids in prickly pear oil can vary depending on many factors, including cactus variety, weather, where the fruit is grown, and the extraction method.
Prickly pear oil benefits for the skin
The benefits of Prickly pear oil for the skin include:
1. Fights skin ageing
One of the key factors contributing to premature skin ageing is oxidative stress caused by free radicals. This can damage skin cells, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
Prickly pear oil is rich in antioxidants, which combat free radicals, and prevent them from causing further damage to the skin.
Researchers have reported that prickly pear oil extracted by cold pressing have a very high antioxidant activity (2). This antioxidant activity is possibly related to the plant sterols in the oil.
Other scientific studies have also shown the antioxidant effect of cold pressed prickly pear oil (3).
Very few studies have explored the antioxidant activity of prickly pear oil in vivo, but a recent animal study changed that. The study compared the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of prickly pear oil, to pumpkin and linseed oil (4).
Interestingly, prickly pear oil showed the strongest anti-inflammatory effect. This is closely related to its strong antioxidant properties and bioactive compounds including polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E derivatives, and phytosterols.
Therefore just a few drops of prickly pear oil per day, can help protect the skin from environmental aggressors and maintain a youthful, radiant complexion.
2. Prevents breakouts
When it comes to preventing breakouts and maintaining a clear, healthy skin, the antimicrobial properties of skincare products play a crucial role.
Research suggests that prickly pear oil can help fight off some bacteria and fungi, which makes it useful in the prevention of acne.
A study found that prickly pear oil from Tunisia has antimicrobial effects against several types of bacteria and fungi that it was tested for (5). In addition to that, the oil showed a wound healing effects.
Further research explored the antimicrobial potential of oil from two Mexican varieties of prickly pear. The study found that both oils have significant antimicrobial effects against various bacteria tested (6).
However, not all research supports these claims.
Research from 2020 claims that cold pressed prickly pear oil has no significant antimicrobial activity (7).
Even though the results are varied, this indicates that the oil has potential antimicrobial activity and may be beneficial against bacterial or fungal acne. The antimicrobial effectiveness of the oil seems to vary depending on the extraction methods and origin of the oil.
Moreover, prickly pear oil can also combat other factors that contribute to breakouts, such as inflammation and oxidative stress.
3. Calms irritated skin
Prickly pear oil offers a soothing and calming effect for those with sensitive skin. It contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation.
Research showed that topically applying prickly pear oil was very effective at reducing acute inflammation in test animals (8). The oil was not only effective agains the appearance of inflammation, but also reduced various inflammatory biomarkers. The researchers attribute this effect to the antioxidant properties of the oil and its bioactive compounds like phytosterols, tocopherols, polyphenols, and carotenoids.
Prickly pear oil contains significant amounts of β-sitosterol (9). This compound has significant anti-inflammatory activity (10).
Moreover, prickly pear oil even has wound healing potential. When topically applied, it accelerated skin closure and significantly improved the healing process compared to control groups (11).
Regular application of prickly pear oil can help restore balance to the skin, reducing sensitivity and promoting a healthy complexion.
4. Hydrating
Prickly pear oil is a true hero when it comes to nourishing and hydrating the skin. Its high content of essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid, helps to increase moisture, prevent dehydration, and keep the skin supple and plump.
Oils that are high in linoleic acid and relatively low in oleic acid, such as prickly pear oil, are often very beneficial for the skin (12). Especially when the stratum corneum of the skin is damaged.
Research suggests that these oils containing linoleic acid, not only help calm irritated skin, but also help rebuild the lipid barrier and decrease the trans epidermal water loss of the skin (13). All of this leads to a healthier, more hydrated skin.
The oil's lightweight texture allows for quick absorption, leaving no greasy residue behind.
5. May prevent irritation from vitamin A
Vitamin A and other retinols are famous for their anti-ageing benefits for the skin (14). One common problem with these compounds, is that they often lead to unwanted side effects, including dry and irritated skin.
Recently scientists experimented with prickly pear oil as a carrier for vitamin A to the skin (15). They found that prickly pear oil may have many advantages over other oils for vitamin A delivery to the skin, but research is needed to investigate that further.
As discussed above, prickly pear oil could also help hydrate and calm irritated skin, which may be very helpful in combating dryness and irritation from vitamin A.
It is still too early to say for sure if prickly pear oil significantly reduces the risk of side effects from retinols, but these initial results seem promising. Other oils such as primrose and borage oil may have similar effects as well.
6. High vitamin E content
Vitamin E is has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (16). Research shows, that it has great potential for the treatment of atopic dermatitis as well (17).
Moreover, supplements containing vitamin E can be very beneficial for skin and hair health, and may even have anti-ageing effects (18).
Prickly pear oil has a very high content of vitamin E derivatives, also known as tocopherols. Here is the approximate vitamin E content in prickly pear seed oil (19):
|
Vitamin E Type |
Content (mg/kg oil) |
|
Alpha-Tocopherol |
6.212 ± 0.078 |
|
Gamma-Tocopherol |
172.597 ± 7.594 |
|
Delta-Tocopherol |
1.613 ± 0.043 |
|
Total Vitamin E |
180.423 ± 7.681 |
Probably ineffective for:
Protection against UV radiation
Prickly pear oil contains many antioxidants and other beneficial components, such as quercetin, that may have potential as a natural shield against the harmful effects of UV radiation.
But, while it is widely recognized for its cosmetic applications, scientific studies examining its efficacy as a protective product against UV radiation are still limited.
At the moment, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of prickly pear oil against UV radiation. There is a scientific review, that “cites” research on how prickly pear seed oil can be effective against UV-C radiation, however, when you follow the links provided, they lead to scientific papers that talk about completely different things (20).
Even if the antioxidants in prickly pear oil provide some level of protection, it should not replace proper sun protection measures such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing.
What skin types benefit from prickly pear seed oil?
Most skin types can benefit from this oil, including:
Acne-prone skin
Despite being an oil, prickly pear oil possesses unique properties that make it suitable for acne-prone skin. Unlike heavy, pore-clogging oils, prickly pear oil is light, absorbs easily into the skin and has a low comedogenic rating.
The oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid known for its many beneficial effects. In fact, linolenic is often used in creams for acne-prone skin (21).
Studies suggest that low levels of linoleic acid in the skin can contribute to the worsening of acne (22).
People who suffer from acne, often use very harsh products on their skin in an attempt to get rid of the excess oil. This can actually lead to irritations, stimulate the oil producing glands in the skin and eventually make the acne worse. A light oil with anti-inflammatory and anti microbial properties, such as prickly pear oil, can be very beneficial in such cases.
Sensitive skin
People with sensitive or irritated skin may really benefit from this oil. As mentioned above, prickly pear oil is beneficial for a healthy skin barrier. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it may help calm irritated skin.
Dry skin
People with dry skin often benefit from the extra skin nourishment most face oils provide. Incorporating a light-absorbing oil, either under a moisturiser or a heavier oil, can greatly enhance the skin's hydration levels. This extra hydration helps promote a healthier and more supple complexion.
Ageing skin
The skin of ageing people is often very dry and needs more nourishment and hydration, compared to other skin types. Packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids, prickly pear oil can help combat dry skin and free radicals, and prevent signs of ageing.
The oil absorbs deep into the skin and helps hydrate, nourish, and restore a youthful glow.
If you decide to apply prickly pear oil on ageing skin, it is best to apply a heavier oil, like sweet almond oil on top of the lighter prickly pear oil.
This is because prickly pear oil absorbs deeper into the skin, while the heavier sweet almond oil can provide a much needed nourishing layer on the skin’s surface.
Alternatively, one can also choose to apply a regular moisturiser on top of the prickly pear oil. The benefit of a moisturiser is that in addition to oils and other beneficial ingredients, moisturisers typically also contain occlusive ingredients to better seal the moisture into the skin.
How to use prickly pear oil on skin?
For best results, apply a few drops of oil on your face while still damp after washing your face or a shower. Gently massage the oil into the skin. Apply a regular moisturiser on top of that to help seal the moisture and other nourishing compounds on your skin.
Prickly pear oil is a carrier oil, which means you can use it undiluted on the skin. You can also mix in a small amount of essential oil in it. Just be careful not to add too much essential oil, in order to prevent unwanted side effects.
Side effects of prickly pear oil for the skin
This oil is generally safe to use when applied on the skin, but may still cause some unwanted side effects including:
sensitivity or allergic reactions
itching
clogged pores (very rare)
Precautions
If you have a known allergy for prickly pears or other similar fruits, it’s best to avoid using this oil.
Even though prickly pear oil does not typically cause irritation or other unwanted side effects, it is always recommended to do a patch test, before using the oil on your face. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin.
To do this patch test, simply apply a small amount of oil on your wrist and wait 24 hours. If you experience itching, irritation, signs of an allergic reaction, or any other unwanted side effects, do not use the oil.
Do not apply anywhere near the eyes.
Do not apply on wounds or broken skin.
Safety during pregnancy and breast feeding is not established, so avoid using the oil during this period.
Prickly pear oil alternatives
Other natural oils, that are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids and absorb quickly into the skin, like prickly pear, include:
Black seed oil
Borage oil
Chia seed oil
Emu oil
Goji Berry oil
Grapeseed oil
Jojoba oil
Kukui nut oil
Perilla oil
Pomegranate seed oil
Raspberry seed oil
Rosehip oil
Sea Buckthorn oil
Strawberry seed oil
Watermelon seed oil
Wheat germ oil
These oils are also called dry oils, because of how well they absorb, without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. These oils typically have a low comedogenic rating and are also suitable for people prone to acne.
Why is prickly pear oil so expensive?
Prickly pear oil is often considered a luxury skincare ingredient, and its price tag reflects its exclusivity. There are a few reasons why prickly pear oil tends to be expensive:
1. Time-consuming extraction process
The seeds need to be carefully separated from the fruit, dried, and then cold-pressed to extract the oil. This requires lots of expertise, attention to detail, and adds to the overall cost.
2. Low yield
The yield of oil from each seed is relatively low, which makes the end product even more expensive.
Wrap up
While the antimicrobial activity of PPSO may vary across studies, the findings highlight its potential in preventing breakouts by targeting specific bacteria.
The oil contains high amounts of poly-unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E derivatives, which have many potential benefits for skin health.
One of the main benefits of this oil, is that it absorbs well into the skin and does not feel heavy or greasy.
It has a low comedogenic rating and most skin types can benefit from this oil.
If you decide to use this oil for your skin, remember that less is more. Just a few drops of oil are usually more than enough.