From the blades of the Sicilian prickly pear, a super-hydrating and regenerating elixir for the skin

Under the prickly shell, the prickly pear paddles hide a real treasure for natural beauty. Rich in mucilage that has the ability to retain large quantities of water, they contain precious natural active ingredients with extraordinary hydrating, regenerating and soothing properties for the skin .

It is precisely because of its exceptional effectiveness that we have included the extract obtained from Sicilian prickly pear blades in the biocertified formula of one of our flagship products: the  Super Moisturizing Pro-Microbiota Face Cream . But let's take a closer look at what it is.

The properties of the gel contained in the inner part of the blades (the leaves of the prickly pear, Opuntia ficus-indica) were well known in the past: traditionally, in fact, it was used on the skin as an anti-reddening and emollient remedy and to promote healing from burns and wounds. Today, several scientific studies have shown that these effects are attributable to the presence of particular polysaccharides that perform an action very similar to that of hyaluronic acid thanks to the ability to attract and maintain humidity, giving elasticity and turgidity to the skin tissues.

In addition to providing deep hydration, this natural ingredient also has a protective effect that enhances the antioxidant capacity of cell membranes, which is useful in counteracting the skin's susceptibility to redness. In other words, it has a soothing action that makes it ideal for delicate or irritated skin .

And that's not all: thanks to the presence of antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamins E and C) and minerals, it helps to combat oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, helping to keep the skin young and luminous. The extract obtained from the prickly pear blades is therefore also a powerful anti-aging that helps the skin to remain elastic, compact and toned.

Benefits of the extract obtained from the prickly pear paddles :

• Offers intense and long-lasting hydration
• It has a soothing and emollient effect: it helps prevent skin irritation and is ideal for delicate skin.
• Increases antioxidant capacity, promoting skin regeneration

A Green and Sustainable Ingredient

Unlike some synthetic ingredients used in conventional cosmetics, prickly pear paddles are a completely natural and sustainable resource. They require little water to grow and have a minimal environmental impact, making them a perfect eco-friendly choice for those who want to be conscious of their beauty and respect the environment.

The extract used by Arca Botanica comes exclusively from prickly pear grown in Sicily . You can find it in the Pro-Microbiota Super Moisturizing Face Cream .