Why Prickly Pear Oil Reigns Supreme in Vitamin E Content

We’re suckers for a great all-in-one oil—which explains our long-standing love affair with argan and coconut. But move over classics, there’s a fresh face in town: prickly pear seed oil. It’s a cactus-derived powerhouse that’s seriously hydrating and could give your favorites a run for their money.

Prickly Pear Oil

Category: Hydrating skincare oil

Key Benefits: Calms inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, deeply hydrates

Ideal For: Those with sensitive, dehydrated skin or concerns like hyperpigmentation

Recommended Usage: Can be used twice daily, morning and evening

Pairs Well With: Retinols and Vitamin C—helps soothe potential irritation from potent actives

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What Is Prickly Pear?

You don’t often think of putting cactus on your skin—understandably, since most cacti are covered in spines. But beneath that tough exterior, many desert plants hold incredibly nourishing properties. Just like aloe, prickly pear is one of those hidden gems. Beyond skincare, it’s also commonly consumed as a food—think cactus fries—or as a sweet, syrupy ingredient in drinks and juices. You may have even spotted it in cocktails or wellness blends at juice bars.

Prickly pear has gained recent popularity in the beauty world, but it has long been used in traditional cuisines across Mexico and the Southwestern U.S. Native to the Americas, this plant—also known as nopal or Opuntia—comes in over a hundred species in Mexico alone and is considered by many to be a superfood.

How Does Prickly Pear Benefit the Skin?

Rich in essential fatty acids (including omega-6 and omega-9), prickly pear oil is packed with antioxidants like vitamin E. It also contains amino acids that support collagen production and promote skin renewal. The presence of vitamin K helps improve skin elasticity and may even reduce the appearance of dark under-eye circles. With its nutrient-dense profile and lightweight texture, prickly pear oil offers deep hydration while supporting overall skin health—and it's gaining recognition as a more sustainable alternative to some traditional skincare oils.

Side Effects of Prickly Pear

While prickly pear offers many benefits, it’s important to be mindful of how much is consumed. Ingesting large amounts—either through food or supplements—may lead to side effects like nausea, bloating, or in more serious cases, intestinal blockage. However, these effects are specific to oral intake. When it comes to topical use, there is limited research on its transdermal toxicity, but current evidence suggests that it poses minimal risk when used on the skin. Most individuals tolerate it well, though those with known plant allergies should proceed with caution.

How to Use It

Prickly pear seed oil is suitable for a wide range of skin types, from dry to mature to sensitive. Its hydrating, softening, and rejuvenating properties make it an excellent addition to both preventative skincare routines and those targeting visible signs of aging. Regular use can lead to noticeable improvements in skin texture, moisture levels, and overall radiance.

Mun Aknari Brightening Youth Serum

This serum delivers an instant glow, powered by a concentrated boost of prickly pear. Known for its ability to smooth fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation, and defend against environmental damage, it transforms dull skin into radiant perfection. Infused with rose essential oil, it also leaves your skin feeling exceptionally soft and supple.

Carter + Jane The Everything Oil

Using sustainably sourced skincare is one of the kindest choices you can make—for your skin and the planet. This cold-pressed prickly pear seed oil is crafted in its purest form to deeply nourish and revitalize. With regular use, expect an instant glow that only gets better over time.

Dae Prickly Pear Hair Oil 

Inspired by the beauty of the Southwest, this haircare line offers a thoughtfully crafted range designed for all hair types. Its prickly pear oil is a standout—clean, nourishing, and effective at smoothing rough cuticles. As an added bonus, it leaves hair with a fresh, uplifting scent.

Youth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Oil 

Winter has a knack for drying out skin—but this antioxidant-rich, organic oil is here to change that. Packed with nourishing berries and prickly pear, it keeps your skin soft, dewy, and deeply hydrated, no matter how cold or cloudy it gets.

Peet Rivko Balancing Face Oil

This face oil keeps things simple and effective. Formulated with a blend of gentle, non-irritating oils, it's ideal for even the most sensitive skin types. Free from fragrance and unnecessary additives, it's one of the safest facial oils you can use daily.

Kaye's Beauty Book is here to help you choose better products that suit your skin, hair and lifestyle. All of the products mentioned are carefully researched and selected to ensure that the most credible information comes to you. If you do buy a product from one of our links, Kaye's Beauty Book may earn a commission.

II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II