Its high concentration of vitamin E, omega-6 and sterols helps this oil fight free radicals, which are responsible for skin ageing. Its antioxidant properties are excellent for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. Its high concentration of essential fatty acids gives it regenerating and nourishing properties. It reduces the appearance of fine lines and helps prevent the premature formation of wrinkles. The vitamin E found in prickly pear seed oil is the highest of all vegetable oils. It is also high in linoleic acid, which has been shown to lighten sun-induced hyperpigmentation, protect the skin barrier, reduce water loss and increase moisture. Other beneficial components include vitamin K, which helps brighten dark circles, even skin tone and reduce broken capillaries, and zinc, which helps reduce redness and inflammation of acne lesions and decrease oil production. It is also rich in phytosterols, especially beta-sitosterol, which provides antioxidants and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.