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Moumoujus

FICUS INDICA BARK.

Valuable CAS 90082-21-6 / SKIN CONDITIONING

Ficus Indica Bark, often referred to as Opuntia Ficus-Indica extract, is a highly beneficial skincare ingredient derived from the prickly pear cactus. It delivers potent antioxidant protection, enhances skin hydration, and fortifies the skin's natural barrier, while actively addressing visible signs of aging.

Summary

Skin conditioning Antioxidant Humectant Soothing Anti-aging Barrier strengthening Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial

Science

Mechanism of Action

Opuntia Ficus-Indica extracts function as effective skin conditioning agents, imparting both hydrating and soothing properties. Its rich profile of antioxidants, including polyphenols, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and amino acids, aids in strengthening the skin barrier and shielding against environmental aggressors like pollution and UV radiation by neutralizing free radicals, partially through piscidic acid's iron-chelating action. Additionally, it helps to alleviate irritation and redness by blocking stress markers in sensory nerve cells, boosts cellular water penetration via osmotic effects, stimulates aquaporin (AQP3) synthesis, and reinforces epidermal barrier function. The ingredient also stimulates collagen production, leading to improved skin elasticity and firmness, reduced wrinkle appearance, and promoted skin renewal through cell turnover. Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities have also been observed.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range ≥5%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Creams formulated with 5% Opuntia Ficus-Indica peel or cladodes extract significantly reduced macroscopic skin aging scores. Specifically, a 5% concentration of OFI cladodes extract normalized superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) skin levels, demonstrating superiority to a vitamin E control group. Both 5% OFI peel and cladodes extracts nearly restored normal skin structure and collagen fiber integrity.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The available research data specifies an effective concentration of 5% for Opuntia Ficus-Indica extracts, indicating its inclusion in formulations is based on demonstrated biological activity rather than for cosmetic 'dusting' purposes.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Betalains, the water-soluble pigments present in Opuntia ficus-indica fruit, maintain their integrity efficiently within a pH range of 3 to 7, achieving maximum chroma at pH 6.5.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

Opuntia ficus-indica fixed oil has shown low acute toxicity in mice, and its stem extract is classified with no hazard statements according to GHS. A 12-week clinical study on ingested extract demonstrated no liver or kidney toxicity. Betalains, its primary pigments, are reported as neither allergenic nor toxic. The ingredient is generally considered non-fragrant and non-irritating.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ficus Indica Bark is a highly valuable multi-functional ingredient, offering significant anti-aging, antioxidant, and soothing benefits with broad skin compatibility and a low risk of irritation.

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