Hemp is trending in a big way – and it’s no surprise. True to its reputation, the cannabis sativa plant is one of the best ingredients to bring some chill to stressed out skin.
From nourishing parched complexions to tackling acne, here are five reasons hemp is guaranteed to give you a skin high.
It’s dope (kinda)
A relative of the cannabis plant, hemp has almost endless uses; from eco-friendly fabric to vegan protein shakes.
But it’s hemp oil, made from the whole plant, that has garnered the most attention. While the hemp plant doesn’t contain the psychoactive compound THC which gives cannabis its ‘buzz’, it does share its high levels of cannabinoids (of which cannabidiol or CBD is the best known).
This chemical is noted for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it a useful ingredient for everything from period pains to acne.
Keep it handy for your next acid trip
The soothing properties of hemp don’t stop at cannabinoids. The oil derived from just the tiny seeds of the cannabis sativa plant, hemp seed oil, may only contain trace levels of cannabinoids but it’s packed with gamma linoleic acid. This essential fatty acid has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, making it a go-to skincare ingredient for soothing stressed out skin.
Perfect for keeping on hand to balance the effects of retinol or acids, hemp seed oil helps to soothe signs of irritation or flakiness. The Herbivore Emerald Hemp Seed + Adaptogens Deep Moisture Glow Oil combines omega-rich cannabis sativa oil, shiitake mushroom and ashwagandha root, to protect, calm, rejuvenate and brighten the skin
It’s an oil-friendly oil
It may sound counter-intuitive, but oil can be an oily complexion’s BFF. Hemp seed oil has a similar composition to our skin’s own sebum, meaning it absorbs quickly and deeply. It’s thought these shared characteristics may also help to balance the skin’s oil production.
Combined with those anti-inflammatory powers, hemp seed oil makes a great choice for nourishing acne-prone skin.
It’s a moisture trap
The skin’s natural barrier helps to keep hydration in and bacteria out, but it can become damaged by stress, over-exfoliating and skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema.
Not only does hemp seed oil act as a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture to the skin’s surface to keep it plumped up and juicy, but it also helps stop it escaping.
The high levels of omegas 3, 6 and 9 in hemp seed oil help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, forming a seal over the skin to keep the moisture trapped inside. This makes it particularly useful for skin types prone to dryness, flakiness, and even acne.
To max out on hemp’s hydrating benefits, apply the Herbivore Emerald Hemp Seed + Adptogens Deep Moisture Glow Oil over your favourite moisturiser.
It’s lightweight
For such a heavyweight hydrator, hemp seed oil has a surprisingly lightweight feel. Sometimes referred to as a ‘dry oil’, it sinks in quickly and leaves no greasy or heavy after feel. It can even be worn under makeup.
