Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract
Extract from prickly pear cactus flowers – the Mexican plant on which cochineal lives. Contains flavonoids and betalains. In cosmetics – an antioxidant with a mild brightening effect. Few human RCTs, the main data come from Latin American plant pharmacology.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Plant extract with in vitro antioxidant activity. Safe profile, no independent human RCTs.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract is an aqueous or hydroglycolic extract of Mexican prickly pear flowers. Composition: betanin, polysaccharides, flavonoids, amino acids, minerals. Mechanism. Claimed moisturizing and antioxidant action. Betanin is a natural pigment that neutralizes free radicals in vitro. Polysaccharides bind water in the stratum corneum. Where applied. Premium anti-aging serums and creams, masks. Rare in Europe and Spain. Concentration 0.5–3%. Evidence base. No human clinical RCTs; evidence is in vitro and animal-based. CIR and SCCS have not published a separate assessment. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. No direct data. Betanin at high oral doses may theoretically increase uterine contractility (anecdotal data from Mexican traditional medicine). Topical use at cosmetic concentrations is most likely safe, but manufacturers recommend avoidance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract safe during pregnancy?
Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract for?
Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Extract from prickly pear cactus flowers – the Mexican plant on which cochineal lives.
What's the INCI name for Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract?
The INCI name is Opuntia Coccinellifera Flower Extract. It may also appear as: Cochineal Cactus Extract.
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