What Is Hemp Oil? (And Why You Should Use It)

What is Hemp Oil?

“Hemp oil, or commonly known as hemp seed oil, is extracted by pressing the seeds of the cannabis sativa plant,” says Stas Chirkov, cosmetic chemist and founder of Blunt Skincare. “The seeds of the industrial hemp, a type of cannabis grown for fiber mostly, are sold globally as a superfood. The pressed oil is then used in foods, cosmetics, and supplements.” Think of it like any other seed, such as chia or flaxseed. After extracting the oil, you can use it for pretty much anything, though it won’t be as helpful for your skin in all forms. 

To get the most out of hemp oil, body and skincare brands are packing it into their products, so you’ll reap the benefits every time you slather them on. Similar to other plant and nut seed oils, it’s rich in nutrients, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. Who wouldn’t want their skin to get all of that goodness?

How is Hemp Oil Different from CBD Oil?

Just as often as you hear about hemp oil, you probably talk to someone obsessed with CBD oil. Some swear by one over the other, but the truth is, they both have some seriously stellar skin and body benefits. But what’s the difference between the two oils? It can get a little complicated. Simply, cannabis (or marijuana) and hemp are two varieties of the same plant species, Cannabis sativa. 

“Hemp seeds do not contain cannabinoids,” explains Chirkov. “CBD belongs to a different class of chemicals, a phytocannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant itself: flowers, stalks, and leaves.” Hemp seeds don’t contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that produces a high. In contrast, CBD is very low in THC (0.3 percent). Neither will give you a “high,” but CBD helps many manage anxiety, pain, and inflammation. Hemp oil is generally used for its topical benefits, while CBD is both ingested and applied to the skin for a more full-body experience. 

Does that mean CBD oil is somehow better than hemp oil? Not at all. They just have different uses and benefits. Hemp oil has been around for decades, while CBD oil is a newer ingredient. Still, chemists are finding new, innovative ways to use both—especially when it comes to skincare.

So, What Are the Benefits of Hemp Oil?

Now that you know what hemp oil is, how are you going to get all the benefits? Well, leave that up to the pros who are creating hemp seed-enriched skincare products to add to your routine. It doesn’t matter what type of skin you have. Everyone can benefit from this nourishing oil. Get ready to add it to your daily skincare routine. GRWM, anyone?

1. It can help soothe skin disorders.

“Hemp oil is a soothing ingredient,” says Chirkov. “It’s rich in essential fatty acids and mimics the skin’s natural barrier, helping it prevent moisture loss without feeling heavy or clogging the pores.” Simply, hemp oil keeps the skin hydrated and helps soothe acne-prone and inflamed skin.

Hemp oil in skincare products can help with everything from acne and eczema to psoriasis. It works well with your acids, retinoids, and acne-fighting skincare as it can calm any irritation they cause. Plus, it doesn’t have any known side effects. Take HEMPZ Herbal Body Moisturizer in Sweet Pineapple & Honey Melon, for example. The hemp oil-enriched body cream moisturizes skin while helping balance your skin’s oil production.

2. It’s antibacterial.

Although we need more research to say conclusively, a promising 2017 study showed that hemp seed oil’s antibacterial properties inhibited the activity of specific types of bacteria. Of course, you shouldn’t use it to treat medical conditions, but any type of antibacterial properties can help overall skin health. Score one for hemp seed oil!

3. It can help with PMS.

Cramps got you down again? Taking hemp seed oil could help. A 2011 study suggests that the physical or emotional symptoms associated with PMS, yes the cramps and the tears, could be caused by sensitivity to the hormone prolactin. Again, we need more research, but that may be related to low prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). Since hemp oil’s gamma linolenic acid (GLA) assists in the production of PGE1, it would make sense that hemp oil would help with that. Other studies suggest that because of the high levels of GLA, hemp seed could even help the symptoms of menopause, too. As always, check with your doc first.

While research on cannabis sativa’s benefits are still ongoing, one thing we know for sure: both CBD and hemp oil-enriched skincare feels great and leaves skin feeling baby soft. Who doesn’t want hydrated, smooth skin? We do, that’s for sure. This is especially clutch for Ipsters with acne-prone or sensitive skin. The result? Skin you can’t wait to show off.

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