Cannabis is having a moment. From protein powders to sustainable fashion, hemp is becoming somewhat of a superpower product, and its skincare benefits are not to be neglected.

According to researchers at the University for Agricultural Sciences in Vienna, Austria and the University of Wuppertal in Germany, hemp seed oil is an excellent source of fatty acids for use in both skincare and cosmetic purposes. The study examined the potential for hemp as a resource for green cosmetics due to the seeds’ high oil content. All trials were done on an organic farm in Austria. Read on to find out three reasons hemp seed oil is ideal for all skin types.
Little Barn Apothecary Lavender + Frankincense Original Oil ($25)

1. The Basics: Hemp Seed Oil is Rich in Omega-6s and Omega-3s

Omega-6s and omega-3s are essential fatty acids, meaning these fundamental components are not produced by the human body naturally and must be found elsewhere. Getting omega-6s and omega-3s from outside sources is key to maintaining healthy skin function.

Results found that hemp seed oil’s unsaturated fatty acid profile is comprised of an ideal ratio of linoleic acid (omega-6s) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3s). Omega-6s and omega-3s are necessary components of epidermal lipids and improve the structure of the skin. These fatty acids were found in higher quantities in hemp seeds than have been found in seeds of other plants, proving the superiority of its oil for a variety of skincare uses.

Osmia Unscented Body Oil: for sensitive skin ($ 70)

2. Hemp Seed Oil Improves Eczema and Psoriasis

There is a substantial amount of alpha-linoleic acid (omega-3s) particularly in hemp seed oil. Products with high amounts of omega-3s are beneficial for those with eczema and psoriasis. It also easily penetrates the skin’s outer layer and is highly emollient, meaning your skin will absorb the oil easily without feeling like you have a layer of grease on your skin. Specifically, products with hemp seed oil used in conjunction with borage oil and evening primrose oil is supreme for these skin conditions. Osmia’s Unscented Body Oil and Night Body Oil both contain these three oils to help soothe eczema, psoriasis, and even simply dry or rough skin.

Josh Rosebrook Herbal Infusion Oil ($ 44)

3. Studies Show Hemp Seed Oil is Beneficial For Acne

Those with acne are oftentimes weary about applying an oil to their already oily skin, but that’s counterintuitive. Oily skin is a reaction to skin that isn’t receiving enough good oil. The sebaceous glands will overproduce oil if not detecting enough of it, and in turn pores become clogged from the overproduction. See our article about oils for all skin types. Don’t be afraid to apply (the right) oils to your skin, it likely needs it! Many oils are comedogenic, meaning they’ll clog your pores, but hemp seed oil is not, so don’t be scared of it! It’s also anti-inflammatory and contains high levels of antioxidants, two properties that treat acne, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Aurelia Probiotic Skincare Cell Repair Night Oil ($ 92)

4. Hemp Seed Oil Has Anti-Aging Properties

The antioxidants from the Vitamin E in hemp seed oil help block the skin from free radical damage, keeping the skin looking youthful. Hemp seed oil is also a natural humectant, meaning it helps the skin’s outermost layer retain moisture. It is able to boost the composition of the skin and protect from nutrient loss, creating anti-aging effects for the skin by keeping it nourished. The above product combines many plant oils including hemp seed oil to create a potent reparative blend. Use nightly for the desired anti-aging effects.

Now that you are armed with the knowledge of how valuable hemp seed oil can be for your skin, check out these following products for more options to suit your skincare needs!

Products containing Hemp Seed Oil:

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