Hemp seed oil is a useful skincare ingredient, valued for its high linoleic acid content, low comedogenic rating, and compatibility with most skin types. It is commonly used as a facial oil, body oil, hair conditioner, and as an ingredient in soaps and cosmetic formulations.
Why hemp seed oil is used in skincare
The cosmetic appeal of hemp seed oil rests on three properties:
- High linoleic acid content (55 percent). Linoleic acid is the precursor to ceramides, key components of healthy skin barrier function. Topical linoleic acid has been studied for skin barrier support, particularly in acne-prone skin where linoleic acid in sebum is often deficient.
- Low comedogenic rating. Hemp seed oil scores 0 on the standard 0-5 comedogenic scale, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores. This makes it suitable for facial use across most skin types.
- GLA contribution. The 3 percent GLA content is anti-inflammatory in topical applications and has been studied for atopic dermatitis support.
For different skin types
Oily and acne-prone skin: Hemp seed oil is particularly well-suited. The high linoleic acid content matches what acne-prone skin tends to lack, and the low comedogenic rating means it does not exacerbate acne.
Dry skin: Hemp seed oil provides moisture and the fatty acids that support barrier repair. For very dry skin, hemp may be best combined with a more occlusive oil (jojoba, squalane) for enhanced moisture retention.
Sensitive skin: The mild profile and low comedogenic rating make hemp seed oil generally well-tolerated. Patch test before applying to the full face.
Mature skin: The polyunsaturated fats and antioxidant content support skin health, though hemp seed oil alone is not a wrinkle treatment. Use as part of a broader routine.
Practical applications
- Facial oil. Apply 2 to 5 drops to clean, slightly damp skin and gently massage in. Use as the last step in a morning or evening skincare routine.
- Body oil. Apply after showering while skin is still damp. Distributes more easily and absorbs better.
- Hair conditioning. Massage a small amount (1/2 teaspoon for short hair, 1 to 2 teaspoons for long hair) into dry or damp hair, focusing on the ends. Leave 30 minutes to overnight before washing out.
- Beard oil. A few drops massaged into a clean beard softens hair and conditions the skin beneath.
- Cuticle and nail care. A drop massaged into cuticles softens and moisturises.
- Cleansing oil. Mix with a small amount of jojoba oil and use for oil cleansing to remove makeup and sunscreen.
What hemp seed oil does not do
- It is not a sunscreen and provides no meaningful SPF protection.
- It does not treat or cure skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, acne) as a medication; it may support the skin's natural function.
- It does not contain CBD or other cannabinoids in meaningful amounts (despite some marketing claims).
- It is not the same as CBD oil; topical CBD products are separate.
Choosing hemp seed oil for skincare
For topical use, the same quality criteria apply as for culinary hemp seed oil:
- Cold-pressed, unrefined (preserves the bioactive fatty acid profile)
- Recent production date
- Dark glass bottle to protect from light
- Stored cool and used within 60 to 90 days after opening
Some cosmetic-specific hemp seed oil is more refined for stability and longer shelf life, with the trade-off of a slightly less complete fatty acid profile. Either can work; choose based on intended use and how quickly you will go through the bottle.
DIY skincare with hemp seed oil
A simple facial oil blend: 30 mL hemp seed oil + 10 mL jojoba oil + 5 drops essential oil of choice (lavender, frankincense, tea tree). Store in a dark glass dropper bottle. Use 2 to 4 drops daily. Keeps refrigerated 60 days.