Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract

Fig may seem like a simple fruit often associated with the soft-textured cookies sold in grocery stores; however, it is proving to be a rather fascinating ingredient for skin.

It’s a rich source of a class of antioxidants known as phenolic compounds, including gallic acid, various epicatechins, and anthocyanins which contribute to the rich, often dark color of fig skin and the fruit inside.

Along with being an antioxidant, fig has been shown to enhance skin’s hydration by preventing water loss from skin’s uppermost layers. It can also visibly improve skin color by addressing an enzyme in skin (tyrosinase) whose overproduction can lead to dark spots.

Those benefits are intriguing, but there’s more: fig extract has also been to help reduce uncomfortably dry, tight skin, including compromised, redness-prone skin.

One caution: Fig contains a group of naturally-occurring compounds known as psoralens. These can make skin more sensitive to sun exposure, but you can get around this by using a broad spectrum sunscreen every day. The leaves, root and sap from the fig plant contain the highest concentration of psoralens, which is why the fruit portion, which contains appreciably low levels, is typically used in skin care.

As a humectant, ficus carica fruit extract works by attracting and binding water molecules, helping the skin retain moisture and maintain hydration. This is particularly useful in products designed to support barrier function and skin comfort.

The extract also appears to contain compounds that may help protect against stress-induced skin damage. When psychological stress activates the release of stress hormones like epinephrine, these can trigger oxidative processes and alter the skin's lipid barrier. Research suggests the extract may help reduce some of these stress-related responses, though the exact mechanisms are still being defined.

Ficus carica fruit extract is typically found in hydrating serums, creams, and moisturisers. Since it functions best when the skin is slightly damp, applying it to freshly cleansed, towel-dried skin can enhance its humectant effect. It works well in combination with other hydrating ingredients and can be used daily as part of your routine.