The Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil
We’ve recently released special hemp oil versions of our hydrating lip balms and lip masks and we couldn’t be more excited about it! This oil is an absolute powerhouse, containing the kinds of benefits that you would usually expect to find from a combination of ingredients - not just a single oil.
Although hemp oil certainly isn’t new, it’s enjoying a revival in the modern cosmetic industry - and now we’re bringing it to you! Take a second with us and learn all about the history and benefits of including hemp seed oil in your skincare routine.
A Brief History of Hemp Oil
The cultivation of hemp and use of hemp seed oil can be traced back approximately 10,000 years ago, to ancient China. Farmers used it originally for the fertilizer that fallen hemp leaves created. However, it didn’t take long for the farmers to realize that the plant was good for more than just soil.
Hemp was first used for its fiber, then later for the medicinal benefits of the oil in the stalks and seeds. This oil contains plenty of protein and important acids, which was perfect for herbal medicines and salves.
The knowledge of these benefits traveled quickly and spread throughout the world. American settlers brought the plant with them and used it for the same things that the ancient Chinese did, though through research and innovation it quickly grew into an industry of its own.
Hemp oil is now used as a blanket term, referring to all of the oils that come from hemp, which includes CBD. Hemp seed oil, on the other hand, is made purely from the seeds of the plant. While hemp and marijuana come from the same plant, the key difference is THC content.
Aside from the skin-related benefits, hemp seed oil is also associated with cardiovascular and brain health, as well as anti-inflammation, which can potentially reduce the symptoms caused by arthritis and other chronic pain conditions.
Benefit #1: Hydration
Now that we’ve gone over the history, let’s get into what it can do for you!
One of the key benefits of hemp seed oil lies in its intensive hydrating properties. It’s high in omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which are great for repairing your skin’s natural barriers and helping keep existing moisture locked in.
These acids, in particular, interact with your skin in a way that keeps it feeling tight, rather than oily or overly moist. They also keep your pores free of clogging, which some other oils are known to exacerbate.
In addition, hemp seed oil is also a humectant! Not only does it keep existing moisture in, but it helps draw other moisture from the environment to your skin. The amino acids it contains are also known for preventing dry skin, not just on your face but your body as a whole.
Benefit #2: Anti-Inflammatory
Hemp seed oil contains gamma-linoleic acid, a known anti-inflammatory agent. This along with the omega-3 and -6 acids are why hemp products are used to treat arthritis and other chronic pain conditions.
When it comes to skincare, this means that it has soothing and restorative effects on those who suffer from eczema and psoriasis. Using it on existing breakouts helps to ease the itching and pain while simultaneously providing a defense against new ones.
Benefit #3: Anti-acne
Hemp seed oil can potentially modulate skin oil production, making it a good, natural ingredient to use on acne-prone skin, as one of the main causes of adult acne is the overproduction of natural skin oil.
Excessive skin oil can clog your pores and create a perfect environment for acne to flourish. Hemp seed oil keeps the skin open, allowing your pores to breathe and keeping your skin looking healthy.
Benefit #4: Anti-aging
On top of everything else, hemp seed oil can help reduce early-aging and other signs of environmental damage, like UV rays. This is again thanks to gamma-linoleic acid and hemp seed oil’s natural antioxidants, all of which promote cell regeneration, keeping wrinkles and fine lines at bay.
These acids, unlike others, can’t be naturally produced by your body, so it’s especially important to use cosmetic products that contain them.
Now that you know the full range of benefits that hemp seed oil offers, we hope you understand exactly why we’re so excited about these new products! You can find them both at your local CVS if you’re located on the East Coast.