Ever feel like there’s a new beauty ingredient you can’t stop seeing and hearing about? That all of the sudden, it’s in every product and all over your Instagram feed? This is what our Beauty Buzzwords series is all about – helping you learn more about these mysterious ingredients and why everyone is raving about them.

Today, we’re talking all things hemp seed oil. I’m going to breakdown what it really is (short answer: not marijuana) and why it’s the perfect solution to your dry winter skin.

What is it?

Hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the cannabis sativa plant, more commonly known as hemp seeds—you may be more familiar with these as a yummy salad topping or smoothie ingredient. Hemp seed oil contains little to no THC or CBD (specific components of the cannabis stavia plant) and therefore none of the psychoactive or mind-altering properties that many of us think of when we hear the word cannabis. Hemp seed oil is a clear green, yellow colour with a slightly nutty scent.

What are the benefits?

There are so many great reasons to add hemp seed oil to your beauty routine. First off, it’s brimming with healthy fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which help keep skin looking plump and smooth. Those good fats also act as powerful anti-inflammatories while simultaneously boosting new cell production and skin regeneration, making it perfect for soothing inflamed skin and/or healing acne.

Hemp seed oil is also filled with amino acids that can help skin generate collagen and elastin, allowing it to stay moisturized and prevent fine lines.

Hemp seed oil is also filled with amino acids that can help skin generate collagen and elastin!

Who should be using it?

Hemp seed oil can work for all skin types but is especially handy for those who are concerned with repairing damaged skin. It’s great for targeting wrinkles, scars, and even skin damage from spending too much unprotected time in the sun.

My Favourite Products:

Hemp seed oil can be found in a ton of different products, from creams and lotions to bath salts. Check out a few of my favourites below:

• ANDALOU naturals CannaCell Botanical Body Lotion Harmony: A standout from ANDALOU naturals’ new CannaCell line, this body lotion moisturizes even the most dehydrated skin, while soaking in and absorbing quickly. Plus, it has a soothing chamomile scent.
• Bronner’s Organic Pure Castile Liquid Soap Rose: This is a classic that I personally like to have on hand at all times. Not only is it totally multipurpose, but the natural blend of essential oils provides a delicate floral scent that will give you spring vibes—even in February.
• Province Apothecary Healing Eczema Balm: A true winter hero, this balm is a total lifesaver for those of us dealing with eczema, psoriasis or rashes. It delivers deep healing power that relieves inflammation, redness, itchiness, irritation and dryness. Plus it’s suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

If you want to read even more about hemp seed oil, check out Hemp 101 on the blog here.