Hemp is one of nature’s wonder plants, and the oil that is made from its seeds is pure magic for the skin.

First, let’s be clear about what hemp oil we’re talking about! As a natural skincare brand, specialising in products for sensitive and eczema-prone skin, we use the oil that comes from hemp seeds from the Cannabis Sativa plant in our products, because that’s the stuff that nourishes depleted skin. These seeds aren’t psychoactive nor are they especially rich in the cannabidiols that CBD oil contains. We’re talking nutrients, not herbal highs!

And what nutrients they are! The little seeds are loaded up with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and best of all for the skin, essential fatty acids (EFAs). In fact, hemp seed oil is exceptionally rich in omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9, as well as the wonderfully nourishing anti-inflammatory gamma linoleic acid (GLA). These EFAs occur in particularly useful ratios in hemp seed oil, making the oil very close to the natural oils the skin produces when healthy and functioning properly.

This means that hemp seed oil doesn’t clog pores, i.e. it is non-comedogenic. In fact, it actively supports the skin’s natural oil production, modulating the oiliness of the skin and appearing to actually unplug pores that have become blocked.

While the linoleic acids are doing their balancing thing, hemp seed oil is also acting as a humectant, drawing vital moisture into the skin and strengthening its defences. And on top of that, the vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids that hemp is blessed with support the skin’s natural regenerative cycle, so that strong new cells are made. 

The result? Skin is less likely to be oily, pores are reduced and the skin is softer, plumper, and more supple. Hemp seed oil, used over time, can even reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and help soften and smooth scarring.

So although it might appear counterintuitive at first, putting hemp seed oil on inflamed, spotty or acne-prone skin can actually make your skin less oily. 

TOP TIP 1: A HEMP SEED OIL FACIAL

• Pour a small amount of either pure hemp seed oil or our Bath & Body Oil into your palms, and massage into the skin of your face.
• Cover your face with a hot, damp face cloth for three minutes to let the oil soak in. 
• Remove the oil with damp cotton wool or a thin muslin cloth.

TOP TIP 2: CLEANSING BALM

• To remove makeup and daily grime, soften a small amount of hemp-rich Skin Salvation balm between your fingers and massage into your skin, paying particular attention to your eyelids.
• Gently wipe off the excess balm with warm damp cotton wool.

Recommended products: 

Balmonds Skin Salvation balm with hemp and beeswax (from £7.99 for 30ml)
Balmonds Bath & Body Oil with hemp, chamomile and lavender (£12.99 for 300ml)
Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream with hemp and shea butter (from £13.99 for 100ml)