Prickly Pear Oil: Benefits, Uses, and Tips for Redheads

We’ve recently seen prickly pear oil pop up as an ingredient in several skin and hair care products. While some people may be familiar with prickly pear as a food/drink ingredient, most may not know its beneficial properties as a beauty product ingredient. We love learning about new ingredients and how they can help our skin, so we did some digging to see what all the buzz is about and if redheads can incorporate it into their routines.

What Is Prickly Pear Oil + Where Does it Come From?

Prickly pear, also known as Barbary fig seed oil or Indian fig seed oil, is a caucus primarily native to the United States, Mexico, and South America. In warmer areas, the prickly pear is grown as a crop. The fruits and stems of the cactus are often incorporated in Mexican and Mexican-American dishes as well as in juices, jellies, and spreads. Prickly pear lemonade is a popular drink in many parts of the US. Prickly pear has long been used for health reasons as it’s a good source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

The oil is extracted from the tiny seeds found within the fruit of the prickly pear cactus. These seeds are carefully harvested and then cold-pressed to extract the oil. Prickly pear oil is highly valued for its skincare benefits due to its exceptional moisturizing properties and high antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and Vitamin E content.

In addition to its skincare benefits, prickly pear oil is also used in culinary applications, particularly in traditional Mexican and Mexican-American cuisine. The prickly pear or nopal fruit is used in various dishes, juices, jams, and even beverages like prickly pear lemonade.

Overall, prickly pear is celebrated not only for its culinary versatility but also for its nutritional value and health benefits, making it a cherished plant in both traditional and modern applications.

Benefits of Prickly Pear Oil for Redheads

Prickly pear oil, which comes from the hard seeds of the plant, is a very beneficial ingredient for both skin and hair. It’s hydrating, antibacterial, and high in antioxidants. Prickly pear oil can help to strengthen nails and cuticles, firm the skin, reduce acne scarring, and hydrate hair. Prickly pear oil can be used alone or combined with other ingredients. When plain prickly pear oil is used, it can be used undiluted or as a carrier oil with no negative impacts (unless you have an allergy to the plant.)

Prickly pear oil can benefit all skin types, including people with red hair. Here are some reasons why redheads might consider trying prickly pear oil:

Moisturizing Properties: Prickly pear oil is deeply hydrating and nourishing, helping to soften and smooth the skin. This is particularly beneficial for dry or sensitive skin, which redheads sometimes experience due to their fair complexion.
Antioxidant Benefits: The oil is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E and flavonoids, which can help protect the skin from environmental stressors and premature aging. This is advantageous for maintaining youthful-looking skin, which can be a concern for people with fair skin tones.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Prickly pear oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness. This can be especially useful for redheads with sensitive skin prone to irritation.
Light Texture: Despite its moisturizing properties, prickly pear oil is lightweight and non-greasy, making it suitable for use on the face and body without leaving a heavy residue. This is beneficial for those who prefer lighter skincare products.
Natural and Gentle: Prickly pear oil is naturally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. Compared to some synthetic skincare ingredients, it is less likely to cause allergic reactions.

Before incorporating any new skincare product, including prickly pear oil, into your routine, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of the oil to a discreet skin area (like the inner forearm) and wait 24-48 hours to see any signs of irritation or sensitivity.

Overall, prickly pear oil can be a beneficial addition to a redhead’s skincare routine, providing hydration, antioxidant protection, and soothing effects for the skin.