Cactus
Prickly Pear Cactus
Scientific Name: {Cacti}
Common Type: {Prickly Pear Cactus}
Cacti are sought after for their moisturizing and skin-soothing pulp interiors. Cactus evolved to protect the nutrients and water that live and are stored in cells. They grew sharp thorns to keep predators away.
Now that we understand their benefits, cacti are grown and harvested just for what's inside; a gel. But you can also extract it for a more concentrated and potent application.
Because cacti usually grow in the desert, where there is little water, they have evolved to collect and store as much moisture inside as possible. The properties that make it great at holding onto and utilizing stored moisture additionally make them excellent moisturizers for our skin.
Not only does it deliver moisture, but it also helps to train your complexion to hold onto its moisture. Cacti are pros when preventing moisture loss. In addition, it locks moisture in so your complexion stays hydrated.
Nourishing Phytochemicals from the Cactus Plant
Cactus extracts also work as antioxidants, correctly using phytochemicals to nourish the face with essential nutrients for proper function. Not only can it help to combat free radicals by neutralizing them, but it also protects the skin from the heat and effects of the desert sun.
When photo-aging appears, wrinkles are more apparent, and cells are quicker to die off and lend a gray, dull appearance to the skin. By encouraging regeneration, the cactus extract helps the face appear more beautiful. In addition, you should have a more vibrant look once the dead cells slough away.
Cooling and Refreshing
Cactus also have cooling properties. They can help to soothe irritated and red skin. However, they must be good at regulating their temperature without losing their moisture, which can be fatal for a high desert plant.
The plant is especially good at this and lends these benefits to the skin when applied topically. The Indigenous people have long used cacti as a beauty treatment and which is only now coming into vogue in mainstream cosmetics.
About the Author
Kari Thomas wrote this article.