All of us know that essential oils should be a part of our daily skincare routine to maintain healthy skin. Incorporating an oil or two in our daily skincare routine can lead to clearer skin, brighter complexions, and less pigmentation. You’ve probably heard everything from coconut oil to Moroccan olive oil. Let us introduce hemp seed oil as the next “It” product in skincare. We spoke with dermatologists Joshua Zeichner, MD ; Dr. Raymond Schep the Chief Chemist in Colonial Dames Co.
Jennifer L. MacGregor MD, Union Square Laser Dermatology. Also, estheticians Tammy Fender (of her own beauty line); and Amity Spiegel (of West Village CAP Beauty) were asked to breakdown the hemp seed oil’s benefits, including how it works for dry skin, and why you should add it to a salad.
What is Hemp Seed Oil, and how can it be used?
Hemp Seed Oil–not meant to be confused or hemp oil (which can include CBD oil)–is made entirely from hemp seeds. CBD oil is made out of the flowers, stalks, and leaves of hemp plants (and sometimes from their seeds). Hempseed oil, which is the oil derived primarily from the seeds grown from cannabis plants for non-drug purposes, is also known as hempseed oil. The oil can be legally obtained and used in large quantities to make cosmetics, nutritional supplements and skin oils. Dr. Schep says that it can legally be used if the tetrahydrocannabinol(THC) content is lower than 0.3%.
MacGregor says, “It can either be sold by itself or as an addition to moisturizing topicals.” “Be aware of the differences between hemp oil and CBD oil. The CBD oil binds to brain cannabinoid receptors and absorbs into skin. It can be used to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other conditions. CBD can also contain low amounts of THC. This has clear psychoactive effects.
Some types of hemp oils have more cannabinoids than others, but hemp seed oil has very few and mostly contains omega fatty. It is safe to say that hemp seed oils won’t make you feel high. You can find it in a number of skin products and even you can eat it.
Hemp seed oils are good for your skin.
Keeps moisture in the skin: Spiegel states that hemp seed oils are high in omega acid 3, 6, and 9 which, according to Spiegel, help repair the skin’s skin barrier and form an over-the-skin seal.
Attracts moisture.
Antiinflammatory: Hemp seed oil’s same omega acids help to reduce inflammation. 1
Soothes skin Zeichner said that hemp seed oils are rich in fatty substances, which help hydrate & soothe inflamed and damaged skin.
Antiseptic: Zeichner states it also “may even regulate skin oil production,” a huge benefit for those with sensitive skin or people who are oily.
How to Use it
Many beauty products incorporate hemp seed oils as a moisturizing and anti-inflammatory ingredient. It is especially effective at fighting inflammation and we love it when combined with retinoids. It has amazing results for redness, acne, and other skin conditions. 1 Apply as much as you would any oil. We would be negligent if you thought hemp seed oil’s beneficial effects were limited to skin care.
An example? An example? Lisa Bronner, the blogger behind Going Green with A Bronner Mom wrote that hemp oil contains protein-building amino acids, so it is great for strengthening nails or healing cuticles. She recommends directly applying the oil to the affected areas and massaging in.
Fender also loves hemp seed oils and believes they are good for your health. “I prefer to use raw hemp oils in cooking, since they are still in their natural state and the body can absorb all nutrients they offer the best,” she states. “Hemp seed are delicious in salads.
Spiegel added that “it has a crispy, nuutty taste and can also be used on salads to replace oil.” “It is high-in omegas and contains essential amino acids, which can improve skin’s texture and help reduce inflammation. Because it is a volatile oil, she advises it to be kept refrigerated and should not be heated.