What Is Hemp Seed Oil? Benefits, Uses and How It Works

What Is Hemp Seed Oil?

Short answer: it's a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil that hydrates without clogging pores. Hemp seed oil is cold-pressed from hemp seeds, and it's one of the ingredients we formulate with most often. Here's what it actually does, and how it works on skin.

What is hemp seed oil?

Hemp seed oil is cold-pressed directly from the seeds of the hemp plant, not the flowers or leaves. That distinction matters: hemp seed oil contains no meaningful cannabinoids, including CBD, and no more than trace THC — well below the level needed for any psychoactive effect.

It's typically unrefined, has a light green tint, and is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants.

What does it do for skin?

Hemp seed oil is high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with vitamins A, C, and E. Applied topically, those fatty acids help support the skin's barrier and hold in moisture, while the antioxidants help offset everyday environmental stress.

It's non-comedogenic, meaning it closely resembles skin's own natural sebum and doesn't clog pores — one of the reasons it's suited to acne-prone and oily skin as well as dry or sensitive skin.

Is hemp seed oil comedogenic?

No. It sits at the low end of the comedogenic scale, which is why it's commonly recommended even for oily and breakout-prone skin, where heavier oils would be a poor fit.

Is hemp seed oil safe?

Yes, for the large majority of skin. As with any new ingredient, patch testing first is worth doing if you have known sensitivities, but adverse reactions are uncommon.

Where you'll find it

Hemp seed oil is part of the formula across our hemp skincare range. For the full picture — including how it compares to other facial oils and which skin types benefit most — read our complete guide to hemp oil for skin.