We asked our model, JT, how he has such amazing skin; he simply replied, “I drink lots of water. That’s really it.” Questioning as to whether or not we should be happy that it could be that easy or if it was just that way for JT… we looked around at our surroundings, saw a few cacti, and that got us thinking. How have these plants survived the desert heat?
Admittedly, descriptors like “smooth,” “soft” or “supple” don’t usually come to mind when we think of cacti. However, these spiny succulents can imbue the skin with essential hydration and repair it’s barrier functions, leaving the skin with all the aforementioned attributes. Also known by its scientific name, Opuntia, many parts of the cactus plant can be used to benefit the skin and body. The flat paddle of the prickly pear consists of a fleshy material FULL of water, while the purple fruit of the plant is packed with powerful antioxidants that protect the skin from external aggressors.
Much like it’s cousin aloe, cactus extract is anti-microbial and especially anti-inflammatory. Cactus is also a natural humectant, pulling moisture from the air into the skin, building a reservoir of moisture throughout the day. Cactuses also produce linoleic acid which helps to tone pores and to reduce breakouts. Ironically cactus like the saguaro, produce a thin waxy coating that helps to keep moisture from evaporating from its soft tissue, very similarly to how the oil on our skin functions.
Skincare brands like Cardon for Men, Boscia & Freck. Beauty pull essential nutrients from the flat pads of cacti to create a unique liquid-gel extract that they can then infuse into their products. The texture of this extract generally helps the product to glide on the skin and gives a little extra massage time. We’re here for it.
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These two products pack a 1 - 2 punch of hydration AND moisture (different things, Bruh). Both are infused with Cactus Flower extract containing linoleic acid which dismantles the accumulation of extra sebum from inside the pore; Without stripping the skin! Cactus flower is also a source of unique vitamins & minerals, that come together synergistically to maintain hydration levels. So it’s safe to say that each of these would come in handy when the skin is in need of water
Cactus Water Cleansing Lactic Acid Toner is a quick & easy way to clean, tone, & gently exfoliate for re-energized skin. It sports a SYCK ingredient deck like Ginseng, Kelp, & Carrot that’s there to give you, “I just slept a full 8 hours” skin. Keep it next to the faucet on the bathroom counter and use a cotton round to swipe it all over the face, ears & neck. No need to rinse, just let it dry and you’re set. If your an oily skin type, you could actually stop your routine there, one-and-done. You’ll instantly notice a brighter, smoother look overall. As we said, this guy also balances oil production and removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, making it perfect to combat breakouts.
The follow-up after Cactus Water would be the Rich-Bitch Moisturizer. It’s contains Cactus, as well as Vitamin C to keep your skin beamin’. Then there’s a bunch of other tried-and-true skin ingredients like jojoba, sunflower, & coconut, built into the formula that are known to help seal in hydration. I know its name is a bit pretentious, but trust that this moisturizer is far from that. Give it a try.
Are you? Leave your thoughts on cacti infused skincare below.