Hemp may be the hippiest of the natural resources. This plant is sustainable to farm and can be used for clothing, as an ingredient in food, as an alternative to plastic, as well as in the production of biofuels and cosmetics. For a long time now it’s been well-loved by friends of the earth and is more mainstream than perhaps perceived.
You’ll find hemp seed oil in my pro-ageing Eternal Collection, in both the cream and the cleanser, and in my Lustrous cosmetics for acne-prone skin. Hemp oil also features in my lemony hand cream, The Utopia.
Every ingredient in every skin concoction I have devised has been thoughtfully and intentionally added to fulfil a specific function. Since I take a minimal approach to skincare, my use of hemp seed oil - like every other ingredient featured in My Essential Series - is favoured for good reason. Let’s explore what makes hemp so special -
The Origins Of Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp Seed Oil is derived from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike its more famous cousin, CBD oil, Hemp Seed Oil is cold-pressed from the seeds and contains no THC, meaning it’s non-psychoactive and safe for daily use. Cultivated predominantly in Canada and China, the plant is also grown in France, the USA and many other countries, including the UK where hemp production is on the rise. Due to its fast growth, relatively low water requirements and minimal use of pesticides, hemp is one of the most sustainable crops for farming and can also improve soil health.
This green-hued oil is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients, making it a powerhouse of goodness for your skin and overall health.
The Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp Seed Oil is a superb moisturiser, thanks to its high concentration of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids help to strengthen the skin barrier, ensuring that your skin stays hydrated and protected from environmental stressors.
One of the standout features of this essential oil is its ability to balance out oily skin. Mimicking the skin's natural lipids, hemp seed oil regulates the skin’s oil production without clogging pores. This makes it an excellent choice for those prone to acne or breakouts, which is why you’ll find hemp in my Lustrous skin cream and facial oil, formulated especially for acne-prone skin.
Like most of my favoured essential oils, hemp seed oil also boosts anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm redness, itchiness and other irritations. If you struggle with sensitive or easily vexed skin, Hemp Seed Oil can provide much-needed relief. Whether you’re dealing with eczema, psoriasis, or everyday sensitivity, this gentle oil can soothe and comfort your skin.
My Pro-Ageing Ally
The Olive & Joyce philosophy has no room for terms like ‘anti-ageing.’ We are women who celebrate ageing - finding wisdom in wrinkles, laughter in lines and credibility in our crow’s feet. We are actively pro-ageing, and so is our most popular skincare range, The Eternal. However, that doesn’t mean we don’t fight the causes of premature ageing, including an atmosphere full of toxins and pollutants. To combat this, we need to protect the skin by enhancing elasticity and skin health. Vitamins A and E and essential fatty acids are essential in this mission and they can all be found in hemp seed oil. This is why the use of hemp seed oil can help maintain a youthful, radiant complexion.
Why We Love Hemp In Skincare
Hemp seed oil is truly green-hued goodness from the plant world to your body, offering a wealth of benefits for your skin, hair, and overall wellness. Its ability to moisturize, balance, and soothe, combined with its anti-ageing properties, makes it a must-have in many beauty routines. Especially powerful for mature skin and acne-prone skin, hemp is an all-natural regulator and bodyguard for skin health and hydration. It’s also blessedly simple to source sustainable hemp.
