The Benefits of Hemp in Skincare

By now, you’ve probably heard all about essential oils and how they are, well, an essential part of our skincare routine. From avocado oil to sunflower oil, there are many benefits to incorporating oils into our everyday skincare. Allow us to introduce you to one oil that’s growing in popularity: Hemp seed oil.

Hemp seed oil comes from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant and has a rich profile of nutrients, fatty acids and bioactive compounds—making hemp skin care incredibly nourishing and beneficial.

Forms of cannabis in skincare

Those who love their skin have likely noticed that the Cannabis sativa plant has an increasingly strong reputation in the world of beauty and wellness. It’s known as “nature’s most perfectly balanced oil” because there are zero chemical formulas, and no other plant sources can match its natural effects. Let’s break down the various forms of cannabis in skincare products:

Hemp: Hemp is cultivated for use in everything from agriculture to food to skincare, as it’s a multi-purpose ingredient with a range of benefits. Hemp products also find their way into face skincare, as they are a rich source of omega fatty acids and essential nutrients, offering immense hydration.

Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil:  This oil is derived from hemp and used in skincare formulas to provide essential moisture and nourishment, whilst helping to strengthen the skin’s barrier. As this oil is derived from the stalks and seeds of the plant, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil contains less than 0.3% THC—making it non-psychoactive.

CBD:  CBD—or Cannabidiol—is a non-psychoactive compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. While CBD generally has low levels of THC, it is higher than the amount found in hemp. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD are useful for reducing potential triggers of dry skin.

Hemp Seed Oil:  Hemp seed oil is the oil derived from the seeds of the hemp plant. The oil is legally used in large quantity for cosmetics, nutritional supplements and skin oils, as it’s hydrating and anti-inflammatory. It can be legally used when it has a THC content of less than 0.3%. Hemp seed oil typically has no-to-few cannabinoids and contains mostly omega fatty acids.

hemp seed oil benefits

So what does hemp do for skin—and what are the hemp oil benefits? We’ll take you through its numerous advantages for sensitive skin and our recommended skincare products to add to your routine.

moisture restoration

Hemp seed oil is high in omega acids 3, 6 and 9—all of which help strengthen the skin barrier and form a seal over the skin to keep moisture trapped inside. It’s also a humectant, so it draws moisture to the skin.

We recommend the Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate, a calmative face oil formulated for sensitive skin, including skin prone to blemishes, visible redness and discomfort. This lightweight non-comedogenic face oil helps to ease the feeling of stressed skin, strengthen the skin’s barrier and balance hydration. To apply, massage 2-3 drops of the face oil onto freshly cleansed skin, avoiding the eyes.

Cell strengthening

Hemp seed oil benefits also include strengthening the skin and enabling it to better resist infection. Its compounds can stimulate skin regeneration and improve skin elasticity and firmness.

Anti-ageing properties

Hemp seed oil contains compounds that reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when molecules called free radicals damage the skin, leading to wrinkles and fine lines over time. Hemp seed oil can combat ageing by reducing skin dullness, improving skin brightness and increasing collagen production.

Breakout and scarring prevention

Breakouts occur as a result of an overproduction of sebum, which clogs the pores. Over time, this leads to pimples forming in the affected area. Hemp seed oil regulates how much sebum your skin creates. Additionally, hemp seed oil contains anti-inflammatory properties to limit tenderness and redness, as well as antibacterial qualities to keep bacteria and breakouts in control.

As for recommended hemp skin care, the Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Cleanser is an extra-gentle gel cleanser that purifies problem skin prone to visible redness and discomfort. It leaves skin feeling comfortably clean without stripping it of essential moisture.

To apply, dampen your face and hands with warm water. Dispense the face wash onto your hands, work into a lather and massage onto your skin in circular motions. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a soft towel.

Dryness alleviation

Hemp seed oil can dramatically decrease skin dryness to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. As mentioned before, its hydration and moisturising properties can tackle a number of dry skin issues.

Inflammation reduction

Omega acids 3, 6 and 9 also help lower inflammation in the skin. Anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce symptoms associated with inflammatory skin conditions, such as skin dryness and itchy prone skin.

What are the side effects?

Great news: the hemp seed oil benefits continue—because consuming hemp seed oil is low risk! Whether you apply it topically or ingest it as a supplement, the only side effect you will notice is healthier looking skin and nails.

Also, hemp is the only known plant source of Vitamin D. Why do we need it? Vitamin D is essential for our bodies to access the calcium we consume. Without it, we end up with brittle bones, weak muscles and poor overall health.

Now that you’ve become an expert on the hemp seed oil benefits for skin—and hemp skin care in general—let’s talk a bit more about face oils. Check out our Guide to Face Oils to learn more.