Both hemp and marijuana are derived from Cannabis sativa. All cannabis plants contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). What many people don’t know is that Cannabis sativa can be cultivated for different levels of THC. THC levels are 5-10% in marijuana and only 0.3-1.5% (less than 2%) in hemp. This extremely low level of THC in hemp doesn’t cause any mind-altering effects or “highs”.
THC has great potential in the health and wellness arena, especially skin disorders and conditions. The benefits are like those found in cannabidiol (CBD), which doesn’t have restrictions on usage in skincare products. Cannabidiol in hemp seeds is naturally available in high concentrations (not so in marijuana).
Hemp oil is rich in antioxidants - vitamins A and E. It also contains essential fatty acids including alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), gamma-linolenic acid (omega-6), oleic acid (omega-9), palmitic acid and stearic acid. It contains a variety of minerals like manganese, potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, and iron. Hemp is widely recognized as a nutritional supplement and can be found in health food stores and even some supermarkets in ground or whole seed form.
Hemp oil is extracted as a cold-pressed oil to keep its potency intact. It is hydrating and nourishing for the skin due to the abundance of omegas (3’s and 6’s). Antioxidant vitamins A and E help defend against and neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. The presence of magnesium and zinc assists in skin rejuvenation. Magnesium helps soothe skin irritation and redness and zinc accelerates wound healing.
(Check out our Euro Botanicals Skin Balancing & Farm to Face Hemp Oils)
Hemp oil is beneficial for blemish prone or “problem” skin which tends toward sensitivity due to inflammation caused by the presence of p.acnes bacteria. Hemp oil supports clearing congestion in the sebaceous glands. It’s non-comedogenic; and helps maintain the delicate balance of hydration without blocking pores.
There is some evidence that cannabidiol may have the ability to balance hormones, making hemp oil a healing alternative in regulating sebum production and hormone-related acne. The hormone-like action may also be effective in addressing skin changes that occur related to menstruation and possibly menopause. Calming inflammation and soothing irritation from conditions like atopic dermatitis, (eczema) and psoriasis has demonstrated results using hemp oil products.
In a spa treatment, try massaging a small amount of either Skin Balancing or Farm to Face (depending on skin condition) Oil to the skin before applying a soothing or hydrating mask. The mask acts as an occlusive layer and allows the serum to penetrate and nourish.
Hemp is an ingredient that’s here to stay and shows signs of becoming a top natural “skingredient”. We continue to study the emerging science as cannabis-based skincare trends continue to evolve.