THE RISE OF CACTUS AS A SUSTAINABLE AND SOOTHING INGREDIENT IN SKINCARE
The prickly cactus has recently emerged as a popular ingredient due to its soothing skincare properties.
The prickly cactus may seem like an unlikely contender in the world of beauty, given its formidable defence mechanisms. It has recently emerged as a popular ingredient due to its soothing skincare properties.
The plant's interior is filled with a jelly-like substance that contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as well as being rich in linoleic acid, also known as vitamin F, which helps control sebum production.
Unsurprisingly, this powerhouse ingredient has piqued the interest of major players in the beauty industry. For instance, Huda Beauty launched a new concealer in March that features prickly pear cactus extract, while Gucci Westman's debut serum will also contain this vitamin E-rich ingredient.
However, it's not just beauty companies that are interested in the prickly desert vegetation. In 2023, consumer interest in cacti has reached an all-time high, with the hashtag #cactus garnering a staggering 6.2 billion views on TikTok.
On this platform, users are searching for recipe ideas and home decor inspirations, with nopal cactus, prickly pear, and nightbloom cactus being some of the most popular searches.
From an environmental perspective, cactu also have the potential to drive sustainable innovations in the beauty industry, according to Laurie Du, Mintel Associate Director for Beauty and Personal Care.
Desert vegetation is one of the most sustainable plants on the planet, capable of surviving in harsh conditions with little to no water.
Also notes the intersection of the cactus trend with interest in Mexican culture and foreign botanical ingredients, with brands like Nopalera capitalizing on this cultural moment. The brand was founded in 2020 by Sandra Velasquez, who wanted to showcase her family's culture and honor Mexico's symbolic plant.
The nopal cactus, in particular, has a long history of being used for cooking and textiles in Mexico, but it is now gaining recognition in the beauty arena for its use in skincare and exfoliants. Overall, the humble cactus has proven to be a versatile and exciting addition to the world of beauty, with its potential for sustainability and cultural significance only adding to its appeal.
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