What is unique about hemp seed oil and why are so many people using it in their skincare routines?
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp seed oil is obtained from pressing the seeds of the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa L.).
Verywell / Nusha Ashjaee
Unrefined hemp seed oil is a dark greenish color with a mildly nutty aroma.
Hemp seed oil has become a very popular skincare ingredient.
It’s also used in cooking.
The distinction is the variety of the plant.
Cannabis is the name of a family of plants.
Hemp is a variety within this family, and marijuana is another variety in the family.
They would vary in nutrients, taste, texture, and more.
THC is the psychoactive constituent responsible for the high that cannabis gives.
Hemp generally contains very little THC, so it has no psychoactive effects.
As a result, hemp seed oil contains trace to no amounts of THC.
This could be the result of the oil becoming contaminated with other parts of the hemp plant during production.
Hemp seed oil won’t get you high.
It is legal to be used and sold in skincare products.
Although they are obtained from the same plant, hemp oil and CBD oil are very different.
CBD is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant (both marijuana and hemp).
You may be surprised to learn that hemp seed oil is naturally rich in CBD.
CBD is found throughout the entire plant, including stalks, seeds, leaves, and flowers.
This compound is then blended with different ingredients to create a CBD product.
Olive oil is most often used as a base to create a CBD oil.
CBD oil is often used formedicinal purposes.
Cannabis oil is extracted from the entire plant and has both CBD and THC.
Cannabis oil is legal only in states that have legalized marijuana.
Skincare Benefits
Hemp oil is widely incorporated in many skincare products and cosmeceuticals.
In fact, it’s become quite a trendy ingredient.
Hemp oil is not just trendy, but it can offer benefits for your skin.
Hemp oil is considerednoncomedogenic, which means it isn’t likely to clog your pores.
Hemp seed oil is considered a “dry” oil.
This means it absorbs rather quickly and has a non-greasy feel, as far as lipid oils go.
Some ideas for using hemp seed oil:
Unrefined hemp seed oil is fragile and can quickly go rancid.
To extend its shelf life, keep your hemp oil in the refrigerator.
Although preliminary findings are intriguing, much more research needs to be done.
For treating skin problems, though, you should not rely on hemp-based skincare products for improvement.
Many skin problems can be treated by your primary care physician.
Your healthcare provider can also refer you to a dermatologist if necessary.
It shouldn’t be used as a substitute for a healthcare provider’s care.
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