Get to Know: Hemp Seed Oil

What is Hemp Seed Oil?

Hemp seeds are the seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. They are from the same species as cannabis (marijuana) but a different variety.

Hemp oil is perfect for most skin types as it can moisturize without clogging your pores. It can even help to balance out oily skin, hydrating it and regulating the skin's oil production. Excessive dryness can also cause your skin to overproduce oil, which in turn, can stimulate acne. That said, it's important to keep skin as moisturized as possible.

Hemp Seed Oil Benefits

According to some clinical studies and anecdotal evidence, applying hemp seed oil to the skin may have the following benefits:

• Relieve Dry Skin. Hemp seeds are a good source of polyunsaturated and essential fatty acids. They have about a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which is considered in the optimal range. Studies have shown that giving hemp seed oil to people with eczema may improve blood levels of essential fatty acids.
• Fights Acne. Hemp oil (nonpsychotropic phytocannabinoid cannabidiol) is a potent and potentially universal anti-acne treatment. A study states that clinical trials are needed to fine-tune ways to best take advantage of its benefits.
• Treats atopic dermatitis. Part of what makes hempseed oil so beneficial to the skin is that it’s rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients can help to treat skin conditions like atopic dermatitis.
• Prevents Signs of Aging. In addition to moisturizing and soothing the skin, hemp oil has anti-aging properties. Hemp oil can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as prevent signs of aging from developing. The linoleic acid and oleic acids found in hemp oil can’t be produced by the body but can play a crucial role in skin health and anti-aging.

Hemp Seed Oil Nutrition Facts

• Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids: Consuming these nutrients can help to treat skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. One randomized, single-blind crossover study found evidence that dietary hempseed oil reduced the symptoms and appearance of clinical atopic dermatitis after 20 weeks.
• Vitamin E: boosts the skin’s ability to retain elasticity and clarity by helping to protect cells from damaging free radicals (such as environmental pollutants), promoting a more radiant complexion.