Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

FICUS INDICA LEAF EXTRACT.

Valuable CAS 90082-21-6 / SKIN CONDITIONING

Ficus Indica Leaf Extract, frequently referred to as Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract or Prickly Pear Extract, is a potent botanical renowned for its multi-functional skincare benefits. It delivers significant hydration, calms irritated skin, offers robust antioxidant defense, and actively diminishes signs of aging, contributing to resilient and healthy skin.

Summary

Soothing Hydrating Antioxidant UV Protectant Anti-inflammatory Anti-aging Skin regeneration Barrier strengthening

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract exerts its effects through a rich composition of antioxidants (including vitamins C, E, and polyphenols), polysaccharides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and amino acids. It effectively neutralizes free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and preventing premature aging. Polysaccharides enhance skin hydration by forming a protective barrier that minimizes transepidermal water loss, while amino acids support skin regeneration and repair. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation and reduce redness by blocking stress markers, improving elasticity and stimulating collagen and elastin production for comprehensive anti-aging benefits and environmental protection.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Recommended for general skincare effects, including hydration and soothing, at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 5%.
  2. 02 A hydroglycolic extract at 1.0%-3.0% significantly enhanced the skin barrier function, demonstrated by reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and increased skin hydration.
  3. 03 Exhibited anti-acne activity with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1.1% v/v against Propionibacterium acnes.
  4. 04 Demonstrated anti-acne activity with an MIC of 1.3% v/v against Staphylococcus epidermidis.
  5. 05 A 5% concentration of cladodes and peel extracts significantly decreased macroscopic skin aging scores, normalized antioxidant enzyme (SOD) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) levels, and fully restored normal skin structure and collagen fibers in a D-galactose-induced skin-aging mouse model.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Formulations incorporating the extract demonstrate desirable stability and pseudoplastic rheological behavior. While the extract itself can exhibit an acidic pH around 4.54, the natural pH of cladodes is typically between 5.40 and 5.75. Betacyanins, key components, maintain thermal stability up to 70 °C for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Low

Generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetic applications and approved by regulatory bodies like the European Cosmetics Regulation. While typically well-tolerated, individual sensitivities or allergic reactions may occur; a patch test is recommended for those with sensitive skin. Specific CIR or SCCS safety assessments for this exact extract were not identified in the available research.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ficus Indica Leaf Extract is a highly valuable ingredient, offering broad benefits across hydration, soothing, anti-aging, and anti-acne, making it suitable for a diverse range of skin types and formulations with low irritancy and comedogenicity.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…