In April 2021, Weleda celebrated its 100th anniversary with a new range that centres on the prickly pear cactus, which the brand sources sustainably (per the standards set by the Union for Ethical Bio Trade) from Jalisco, Mexico. Why prickly pear cactus? Even in extremely dry climates, the plant is able to store water in something called its mucilage, found inside the paddle-shape lobes of the cactus. This mucilage is like a plant version of our skin's natural hyaluronic acid reserves, helping both attract and retain moisture. Weleda has managed to extract the mucilage — in a patent-pending process that took it six years to develop — which it then adds to the product formulations to help attract moisture into the skin.
The collection includes four products, all aimed at hydrating the skin. There's a Facial Cream, a Facial Lotion, an Eye Gel, and the Weleda Prickly Pear Cactus Hydrating Facial Mist (£17), which can be used throughout the day to add a hit of moisture when you need it or before makeup as a hydrating primer. You can even use it after makeup, and we promise it won't disrupt your base.