Nine hemp beauty products that actually work

From retinol to rose petals, the list of trending skin care ingredients is ever evolving. However, hemp beauty products are certainly having a moment. We caught up with Belinda Shu, Global Head of Quality, Regulatory Affairs & ESG at Vanity Group/Damn Good Beauty who demystified the difference between hemp beauty products and the illegal drug, discussed why you should include them into your skin care regime, and explained exactly what you can expect when you do.

Hemp beauty products v marijuana v CBD

Curious about incorporating hemp beauty products into your skin care routine. But, don’t want to end up on the wrong side of the law? According to Belinda, it’s important to understand the distinction between marijuana, cannabidiol (CBD), and hemp.

“While they all come from the same family, Cannabis Sativa, they are sourced from different plants and serve different purposes. Hemp used in cosmetics contains 0.3 percent or less THC (the psychoactive component of cannabis), while marijuana contains higher levels of THC. Cannabidiol (CBD) can be derived from both hemp and marijuana, but its use is controlled and for therapeutic purposes.”

How does hemp actually work?

In the cosmetics industry, regulatory bodies only allow manufacturers to incorporate hemp seeds into skin, hair, and beauty products. They extract hemp oil from these seeds and utilise it in a range of lotions and potions. This process can be either cold press (unrefined) or heating (refined). However, experts prefer the cold press process as it better preserves the colour, smell, vitamins, minerals, and vital fats of the hemp seed oil, which in turn makes it highly beneficial for our skin.

Due to its high concentrations and optimal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (which the human body cannot produce on its own), hemp makes a great addition to moisturising products.

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“It promotes keratin production, replenishes missing oils, penetrates damaged cells to heal them. Plus, it acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the skin and strengthening the cell matrix,” says Belinda.

“Hemp also has antioxidant, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for sensitive skin,” she adds.

And while there is already a range of natural skincare products that promise to deliver these benefits, what sets hemp apart as a unique addition in the beauty industry is its potential to improve both the environment and human health.

“Hemp is environmentally friendly. It collects carbon dioxide efficiently, requires no harmful pesticides, and provides habitat for animals,” says Belinda. This makes it a perfect option for those who care about causes such as sustainability, as much as they do their complexion.

For extra eco cred, we suggest seeking out brands, with products based on locally produced hemp seed oil. Such as the Tasmanian-based Alivio Wellness range.

Hemp, hair care and harmonious scents

Beyond skin, hemp beauty products have also revolutionised the world of hair care. Hemp oil’s unique composition, deeply nourishes the scalp and hair follicles. This promotes healthy hair growth, reduces breakage, and adds natural shine and lustre to tresses. Hemp oil is particularly beneficial for those with dry, damaged, or frizzy hair, as it helps restore moisture, smooth the hair cuticles, and tame unruly strands.

Finally, the allure of hemp even extends to the world of fragrance, with the earthy, green aroma of hemp oil popular among perfumes. Combined with other botanical extracts and essential oils, hemp-focused fragrances offer a harmonious blend of notes that smell great and offer an excellent choice for the eco-conscious beauty enthusiast.

What to look for before you buy

According to Belinda, customers should play close attention and consider whether a product’s entire ingredient list aligns with their personal skin care goals and objectives, when choosing hemp beauty products. While there are a variety of products on the market today that use hemp oil as an ingredient, as a chemist by trade, here are some of Belinda’s suggestions to ensure you experience it most efficiently.

“Firstly, take a look at the list of the product’s components,” she says. For the manufacturer to sell their product as a hemp product, they may sometimes include a minimum quantity of hemp oil in the product. So you, as the consumer, won’t benefit from any of the hemp’s amazing functions. “When reading the ingredients list, ensure hemp is well ranked. This will then mean it was included at efficacious levels and you’ll be getting all its glorious benefits,” advises Belinda.

Secondly, Belinda recommends you give some thought to the objectives you have for your complexion concerns. “You shouldn’t choose a skin care product solely because it includes hemp oil. Consider the intended purpose of the product as a whole and assess whether it meets the needs of your skin. Sometimes you’ll benefit more from a product in cream form, sometimes in oil form.”

Finally, when selecting a skin care product, it’s important to consider not only the active ingredients but also the other components that make up the formulation, says Belinda. Every part that makes up a product also play a significant role in determining its functionality. The combination and concentration of these can significantly impact the overall function of the skin care product, with the right blend enhancing its efficacy, addressing specific skin concerns, and delivering the desired results.