An aqueous steam distillate of prickly pear fruit, used for skin conditioning.
What it is
Opuntia ficus-indica fruit water is, according to CosIng, an aqueous solution of the steam distillates obtained from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, Opuntia ficus-indica, of the cactus family (Cactaceae). CosIng lists it as an antioxidant, emollient and skin-conditioning ingredient.
Where it is used
Found in a small number of skin care products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
The INCI name does not show the strength of the distillate. As a natural material, its composition can vary between batches.
Functions
- Antioxidant
- Inhibiting reactions promoted by oxygen, thus avoiding oxidation and rancidity.
- Skin conditioning – emollient
- Acting as lubricants on the skin surface providing the skin with a soft and smooth appearance.
- Skin conditioning
- Maintaining the skin in good condition.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.