Prickly pear is a cactus native to Mexico and an important food + medicine that dates back to the Aztecs, who revered it as a sacred plant.  In the water-soluble form for skin care, it’s well known for piscidic acid, a unique antioxidant that can assist in UV protection. This extends into biological actives that limit cellular stress by calming irritated skin.  The seed oil is well known in the skincare community as being one of the richest sources of Vitamin E and K, helping to strengthen lipid barrier functions and helping to soften dark spots.

The intense orange color of the Concentrate comes from astaxanthin, an extract from freshwater microalgae called haematococcus pluvialis.  Not inherent to the desert but can be found across the world and like many desert plants it has a unique relationship to droughts & the sun. During sunny, dry seasons when ponds begin to dry, the algae create astaxanthin to protect itself and preserve its DNA.  Allowing it to grow again when the next rain comes, even after many years. It is a potent form of ßeta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, belonging to the carotenoid antioxidant group (like calendula, rosehip, sea buckthorn, and many other plants). Known for its stability, one molecule is able to counteract a vast number of free radicals, reducing sun damage and preventing lipid peroxidation - resulting in limiting the look of fine lines and discoloration while strengthening the barrier.  ßeta-carotene works in harmony with vitamin E (prickly pear seed oil) and vitamin C (prickly pear extract) - making up the core vitamin trilogy found in the skin.

Chia is a desert plant native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala with a rich history that has persevered even through colonial bans which tried to wipe out Indigenous cultivation of the plant.  The seeds produce a unique protective mucilage that allows the seed to retain water in order to grow in semi-arid regions.  When the seed is placed in water, it exudes a mucilaginous polysaccharide which are long chain carbohydrates capable of stabilizing cell wall membranes. Polysaccharides, much like hyaluronic acid, help create a hydrating film and contribute to the skin’s natural ability for repair and renewal.  The Co2-extracted seed oil contains one of the highest concentrations of plant-based omega-3 linolenic acid. This promotes moisturization and skin elasticity for a vibrant complexion.

Resurrection plants can survive almost complete desiccation from their vegetative parts. They do so by shutting down their metabolic systems to tolerate dehydration to a point of looking lifeless. Where providing water brings them back to “life”. This phenomenon has garnered much attention around their beneficial metabolites.  The extracts from the plant impart hydration, protect the skin barrier from environmental damage and encourage cellular renewal. The varietal we’re working with is the ‘flower-of-stone’ or AKA ‘Magóra’ and can be found around the Chihuahuan Desert.

Yerba Santa, referred to as the ‘fire follower can be found in dry, sunny slopes with rocky soil that is prevalent in chaparral habitats. Their strong relationship with heat can be seen in their seeds given they lie dormant in the soil for decades before they germinate following a fire. Topically, their rich glycoproteins help cool & hydrate the skin - while acting as a catalyst for our natural Hyaluronic Acid and ceramide production, helping to protect against dehydration.

Schisandra Fruit Co2 is not a desert plant but pairs well with other oils in the Concentrate to create a harmonious effect. Rich in compounds called lignans which help restore the skin from stress and calm reactivity.  It is also a wonderful source of phytosterols (supporting the ceremide structure of the skin) and a host of polyphenols and flavonoids which add strengthening benefits against environmental damage.