In recent years, you may’ve seen hemp-based skincare products making their way onto shelves. And you’d be right in thinking that the hemp plant is a variant of the cannabis plant. 

This brings to light a whole host of questions. Does that make it a drug? Is it even legal? Well, no. The hemp that we find in our favorite skincare products doesn’t have any psychoactive properties as it only contains a very low percentage of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).  

For a long time, hemp fibers have been used to make items such as jeans, skits and shoes. However, the hemp that’s used in personal care products is a result of the cold pressing of hemp seeds after harvest. It’s used in a wide range of products, from hand creams and foot balms to moisturizers and serums 

Why is it a hero ingredient? 

There are myriad reasons as to why hemp has shot to the top spot of natural skincare ingredients. Here are just a few of them:

• Full of nutrients:Hemp seeds are packed full of nutrients that our skin loves. For instance, they’re a fantastic source of essential fatty acids such as omega-3, which are important for looking after the skin’s barrier and locking in moisture.

• Protection against free radicals:Free radicals are pesky molecules that are unstable in their composition and cause damage to our skin, such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. They do this by causing oxidative stress. Free radicals are found in environmental aggressors such as pollution and cigarette smoke. To protect our skin from free radicals, we can use products containing antioxidants, something that hemp seeds contain. As such, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is reduced, and the skin tone and texture are improved.

• Anti-inflammatory properties:Another benefit of hemp is that it helps soothe skin and reduce inflammation caused by conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Watch out if you have rosacea, though, as hemp-containing products can cause further inflammation.

• Provides deep moisturization:Suffering from dry skin? Hemp is your new best friend! It helps to hydrate dry skin and prevent itchiness or flaking. It also helps to regulate the production of sebum and moisturizes without clogging pores.

For youthful skin and ageing skin alike, hemp seed oil is a skincare powerhouse that benefits all. With such a broad-reaching range of capabilities, it comes as no surprise that it’s such a popular ingredient.