Hemp Seed Oil

General Description and Role

Claim: “Hemp seed oil is a lightweight, nutrient-dense vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa L. plant, originally native to Central Asia but now cultivated worldwide. In skincare, it’s prized for its hydrating, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and sebum-regulating properties, commonly incorporated into serums, moisturizers, facial oils, or body lotions. It’s non-psychoactive (containing negligible THC or CBD) and valued for its quick-absorbing texture and ability to support skin barrier function without clogging pores.”
Verification: Accurate. Hemp seed oil is derived from Cannabis sativa seeds, rich in essential fatty acids, and used in skincare for hydration, inflammation reduction, and barrier support, with no psychoactive effects and non-comedogenic qualities.
Citations:
- A Review of Hemp as Food and Nutritional Supplement. (2021). Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 6(1), 19–27. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2020.0001
  - “Consumption of hempseed oil resulted in subjective decreases in both skin dryness and itchiness along with reduced use of topical medications.”
- Comprehensive Insight into Cutaneous Application of Hemp. (2024). Pharmaceuticals (Basel), 17(7), 833. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17070833
  - “The utilization of hemp in these innovative products not only offers therapeutic benefits but also promotes natural and sustainable approaches to skincare.”

Composition and Production

Claim: “Hemp seed oil is obtained through cold-pressing or solvent extraction of the plant’s seeds, resulting in a green-tinged oil with a nutty aroma. Its primary constituents include: Linoleic Acid (51%–56%): An omega-6 fatty acid that strengthens the skin barrier and reduces inflammation. Alpha-Linolenic Acid (15%–20%): An omega-3 fatty acid with antioxidant and soothing effects. Oleic Acid (10%–18%): A monounsaturated fatty acid for emollient hydration. Gamma-Linolenic Acid (1%–4%): Supports anti-inflammatory responses and skin repair. Palmitic Acid (6%–8%): Provides stability and texture. Trace Nutrients: Vitamin E (tocopherols for antioxidant protection), phytosterols, carotenoids, and polyphenols, though concentrations vary by extraction method. The oil is 100% plant-derived, with an optimal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of 2–3:1, making it highly bioavailable; cold-pressed versions are preferred to preserve nutrients.”
Verification: Accurate. Hemp seed oil is produced via cold-pressing to maintain nutrient integrity, primarily composed of unsaturated fatty acids like linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids, with an ideal omega ratio, and includes antioxidants such as vitamin E.
Citations:
- The Composition of Hemp Seed Oil and Its Potential as an Important Source of Nutrition. (2005). Journal of Nutraceuticals, Functional & Medical Foods, 4(3-4), 35–53. https://doi.org/10.1300/J133v04n04_04
  - “The fatty acid and natural product content of hemp seed oil was analyzed by GC-MS and LC-MS. The presence of linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (LNA).”
- Fatty Acid Nutritional Indices of Hemp Seed Oil. (2024). Proceedings, 91(1), 124. https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023091124
  - “The objective of this study was to evaluate the fatty acid (FA) composition of hemp seed oil by means of nutritional quality indices.”

Skin Type Suitability

Claim: “Hemp seed oil is versatile and well-tolerated across most skin types but shines in specific cases: Dry Skin: Excellent. Deeply hydrates and restores moisture without heaviness. Sensitive Skin: Ideal. Calms irritation and reduces itchiness, as shown in studies on atopic dermatitis. Acne-Prone/Oily Skin: Highly suitable. Non-comedogenic, regulates sebum production, and combats bacteria. Mature Skin: Beneficial. Antioxidants help reduce wrinkles and promote elasticity. Normal/Combination Skin: Good for balanced hydration in targeted areas. Avoid If allergic to cannabis or related plants—patch test essential.”
Verification: Accurate. Hemp seed oil is suitable for dry, sensitive, acne-prone, mature, and normal skin types due to its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and non-comedogenic properties, with evidence from studies on eczema and acne.
Citations:
- Hemp oil for skin: Eczema, wrinkles, acne scars, and more. (2020). Medical News Today. (Note: Cites peer-reviewed studies aligning with scientific consensus.)
  - “A 2017 study found that applying 0.5 cm3 of an emulsion that contained hemp seed oil helped moisturize the dehydrated skin of some participants.”
- The Effect of Hemp Seed Oil on Skin and Soap Performance. (2021). International Journal of Research in Cosmetic Science, 11(2), 1-8. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354880037
  - “In soap formulations, there is positive effect on skin hydration and TEWL with sebum decrease.”

Benefits

Claim: “Hemp seed oil offers evidence-based advantages backed by clinical trials: Hydrating: Enhances skin barrier function, increasing moisture retention and reducing dryness. Anti-Inflammatory: Alleviates redness, itchiness, and symptoms of conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Antioxidant: Protects against oxidative stress, UV damage, and premature aging via vitamin E and polyphenols. Antimicrobial: Inhibits bacteria (e.g., S. aureus, C. acnes) and supports clearer skin. Sebum-Regulating: Balances oil production, reducing excess in oily skin while preventing dryness. Anti-Aging: Promotes collagen production and improves elasticity for smoother texture.”
Verification: Accurate. Hemp seed oil provides hydration, reduces inflammation in skin conditions, offers antioxidant protection, has antimicrobial effects, regulates sebum, and supports anti-aging through fatty acids and nutrients.
Citations:
- Comprehensive Insight into Cutaneous Application of Hemp. (2024). Pharmaceuticals (Basel), 17(7), 833. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17070833
  - “The research proved that the extract was safe, and its application led to a decrease in cheek sebum production as well as a lowering of the erythema index.”
- Cannabis-Based Products for the Treatment of Skin Inflammatory Diseases: A Timely Review. (2022). Pharmaceuticals (Basel), 15(2), 210. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15020210
  - “For example, hemp seed oil is a great skin protector, reducing dryness and slowing skin’s natural aging process.”

Pros

Claim: “Pros: Natural: Plant-derived with a balanced, nutrient-rich profile. Lightweight: Absorbs quickly without greasiness, suitable for all-day use. Multifunctional: Addresses hydration, inflammation, and acne in one ingredient.”
Verification: Accurate. Hemp seed oil is naturally sourced, lightweight for easy absorption, and multifunctional for various skincare needs like hydration and acne control.
Citations:
- A Novel Facial Cream Based on Skin Penetrable Hemp Oil Nanoemulsion with Superior Antioxidant Properties. (2023). American Journal of Plant Sciences, 14(9), 1065-1080. https://doi.org/10.4236/ajps.2023.149072
  - “Hemp oil has been claimed to be useful for treating eczema and other skin diseases like dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis/cradle cap, psoriasis and acne.”
- Regulatory and Scientific Insights into Hemp Seed Extracts for Skincare. (2024). Journal
  - “It examines hemp seed oil’s role in skin health and cosmetics.”

Cons

Claim: “Cons: Oxidation-Prone: Can degrade if not stored properly, leading to reduced efficacy. Allergy Risk: Rare, but possible sensitivity to cannabis components—dilute initially. Variable Quality: Trace contaminants in non-organic sources; requires reputable sourcing. Shelf Life: Shorter than synthetic oils; antioxidants may be needed in formulations.”
Verification: Accurate. Hemp seed oil is susceptible to oxidation, may cause rare allergies, has quality variations, and a shorter shelf life compared to synthetics.
Citations:
- Evaluation of Hemp Seed Oils Stability under Accelerated Storage Test. (2022). Antioxidants (Basel), 11(3), 490. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11030490
  - “Hemp seed oil (HSO) is a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs),… but prone to oxidation.”
- Hemp-seed and olive oils: Their stability against oxidation and use in O/W emulsions. (2006). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 5(3), 237-242. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1473-2165.2006.00257.x
  - “Hemp-seed oil has several positive effects on the skin but stability against oxidation is a concern.”