Essential oils have become an integral part of skincare products. The right oil can give you a right complexion, making your skin healthy and blemish-free. The oil that’s making a lot of noise these days for all the right reasons is hemp seed oil. Often known as hemp oil, this ‘it’oil is for just about everyone.

What is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil is harvested by cold-pressing the hemp seeds. Often unrefined, it is clear green oil that has a nutty flavour. It is different from cannabidiol (CBD) oil, which is extracted from hemp flowers and leaves

How to Use Hemp Oil for Skin?

–          Topical use

Put a few drops on your skin and gently massage using your fingertips. Its moisturising properties work wonders on dry skin. Apply the oil directly on the pimples for sensitive, acne-prone skin that breaks out every few days. Wash your face with warm water after a few minutes and moisturise as usual.

You can also add a few drops to your favourite face mask.

–          Oral use

Hemp oil is safe to consume. Add a few drops of hemp seed oil to salad dressings or smoothies, and you will get the necessary nutrients. Check for the recommended dosage before using it.

5 Benefits of Hemp Oil for Skin

1.      Great Moisturiser

Hemp seed oil rejuvenates dry skin and restores the skin barrier, which helps in retaining moisture. It is also a ‘humectant’ which means it draws moisture to the skin. Hemp seed oil leaves the skin supple, hydrated, and healthy.

 2.      Possesses Antioxidant Qualities

It is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin A,E,C, and F, and fatty acids, which strengthen the outer layers of the skin. They shield your skin and repair the skin barrier damage that can be caused due to everyday environmental stressors like pollution and sunlight.

The antioxidants also prevent free radical damage, thus keeping your skin healthy.

3.      Moderates oil production

Hemp seed oil is perfect for most skin types as it moisturises without clogging the pores. This oil regulates the skin’s oil production, thus reducing dryness and oiliness for different skin types.

 4.      Reduces inflammation

Common skin inflammatory conditions include acne, psoriasis, eczema or skin conditions that can cause rashes. While chronic conditions must be treated medically, hemp seed oil can treat mild to moderate cases.

In addition to fatty acids and antioxidants, hemp oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a potent anti-inflammatory. All these components promote the growth of new healthy skin cells.

 5.      Has anti-ageing properties

Hemp seed oil can take off years from your face as it has anti-ageing properties. It contains linoleic acid and oleic acids, which our bodies cannot produce but are critical for skin health. They reduce fine lines, wrinkles and prevent other signs of ageing.

Any Side Effects?

Hemp seed oil is safe to use for most skin types. However, like any skincare ingredient, it may not suit some people and can cause mild irritation. That’s why you must always apply it on a small test patch, preferably on the hand, before applying it on the face.

If you are concerned about hemp oil having psychoactive properties because of being extracted from the cannabis plant, you can breathe easy. Hemp oil doesn’t contain any tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which means it cannot give you a ‘high’.

Hemp Oil for The Win!

Now that you know hemp oil benefits skin don’t think twice about adding it to your skincare routine. However, with so many hemp seed oil products out there, make sure you buy a pure, high-quality product. Though it is safe to use, consult with your doctor if you have a chronic skin condition.