We’ve talked a lot about the powers of oil for the skin and how the right oils – like jojoba oil, marula oil, and sunflower oil for skin. They can help restore the natural skin barrier, hydrate skin, provide antioxidant benefits, and more.
One popular oil we haven’t talked about yet? Hemp seed oil. But that doesn’t mean it’s not popular or great. In fact, hemp seed oil is another MVP in many ways, as it can help to hydrate skin, regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and more.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Hemp Seed Oil: The Basics
Hemp seed oil – unlike more generalized hemp oil (which comes from many parts of the hemp plant) – is extracted exclusively from hemp seeds. Unlike other hemp oils, it contains basically no cannabinoids. Instead, it’s rich in:
- Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids
- Antibacterial properties
- Humectant properties
These can provide many skincare benefits.
Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil In Skincare
Among other things, hemp seed oil can provide many benefits to the skin. Specifically, it can:
Provide Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
The high concentration of omega acids in hemp oil provides lots of anti-inflammatory benefits when applied topically. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), in particular, has been proven to contain anti-inflammatory properties and encourage skin growth and cell generation.
In the big picture, then, hemp seed oil can help soothe inflammatory skin conditions like:
- Acne
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
Lock In Long-Lasting Moisture
Omega-3, omega 6, and omega 9 fatty acids found in hemp seed oil are also great for repairing the skin’s natural barrier, which is largely made up of fatty acids to begin with. This can help:
- Lock in moisture, as a healthy skin barrier can help seal moisture in and keep irritants out
- Improve skin health
- Decrease redness and irritation
You can read more about the power of a strong skin barrier here.
Regulate Oil Production
Hemp oil is also known for its ability to:
- Moisturize without clogging pores
- Balance oily skin
- Regulate the skin’s oil production
This is thanks to hemp seed oil’s small molecule size, which makes it more similar to our sebum and less likely to clog pores. This makes it an excellent oil for those with sensitive or already-oily skin.
Slow the Signs of Aging
In addition to moisturizing and soothing the skin, hemp oil also has anti-aging properties thanks to its high concentration of linoleic acid and oleic acid. These are known to play a crucial role in anti-aging and skin health.
Find it in: Almond Butter Sugar High hand cream.