A taste of prickly pear cactus for Cactée

France has a new skin and hair care brand, Cactée (Cactus). The seven products ­– two for the face and five for the hair – are based on oil extracted from the seed of the prickly pear cactus, also known as Barbary fig.

The oil, called nopal and obtained by cold extraction, is claimed to be very high in omega 9 and omega 6 fatty acids, plant sterols and vitamin E. The products include Soin anti-âge Cactée face cream containing nopal; Sérum visage Cactée facial serum, which the firm claims closes skin pores and tightens eye bags; Shampooing pour cheveux secs Cactée (shampoo for dry hair) aimed at women who use hairdryers and hair straighteners; Shampooing pour cheveux normaux Cactée (shampoo for normal hair); Shampooing pour cheveux gras Cactée (shampoo for oily hair) with cactus vinegar; and Sérum cheveux Cactée hair serum with vinegar made from Barbary fig pulp.