We know hemp and its sulphurous reputation. What is less known is that this plant is full of active ingredients with multiple benefits for the skin and is attracting growing interest from the cosmetics industry, which sees it as an ingredient with high potential.
So what are the secrets of this millennial plant? How does it act on the skin? How to use it ? Let's lift the veil on this ingredient that hasn't finished surprising us.
Hemp, what is it?
Hemp is a plant of the “Cannabis Sativa” species, from the Cannabinaceae family. From a distance, it looks like the nettle but it is actually much larger and is usually between 2 and 4 m high. Very resistant, it adapts to soils and climates, which makes it a rather easy plant to grow. Its production is concentrated in countries with a temperate climate, particularly in Europe and North America, and the French sector, despite its small size (300 employees), is establishing itself as the leader in European production with almost a third of annual quantities. A dynamic market that reflects the growing interest in this not so ordinary plant.
Indeed, its botanical composition makes it possible to extract different substances intended for different uses. First of all, the fiber-rich stem has been used for centuries in the textile industry. It produces a resistant and insulating material close to linen. Put aside for a while in favor of more comfortable materials, hemp is coming back to the fore because it is an undemanding plant. It requires nearly 4 times less water than cotton for its cultivation (at equal production quantity). A major argument in a context where ecology is at the heart of concerns.
Under the fiber hides the “hemp pith” used in mulch or aggregates for the manufacture of building materials in particular. Then, at the top of the stems are the seeds, real gems that contain several natural active ingredients with remarkable properties. Harvested in September, they are used in the food industry for their high protein content, among other things. It is also from this part of the plant that the oil contained in cosmetic products is extracted. Finally, the flower that blooms in summer contains several substances, including CannaBiDiol - or CBD - which is increasingly popular in the wellness sector thanks to its relaxing properties.
It is important to differentiate 2 molecules from hemp: CBD and THC. CBD does not have a narcotic effect and does not cause addiction, unlike THC which is a psychotropic, addictive molecule that can alter the functioning of the brain. In France, only the cultivation of Cannabis Sativa (hemp) varieties containing less than 3% THC is authorized and the seeds must be certified in order to guarantee everyone's safety. A regulation to deal with the explosion of hemp products on the market. Even the beauty industry is very interested in this plant which has many qualities. Why so much enthusiasm? We explain to you.
Hemp, a concentrate of benefits for the skin
Despite its not always flattering reputation, hemp is increasingly popular with cosmetic brands. And for good reason, hemp oil contains many natural active ingredients with multiple benefits for the skin. Which ? Let's take a closer look.
Good news to start with: hemp oil is suitable for all skin types and is particularly suitable for dry, mature and/or sensitive skin thanks to its many properties.
Hydration and anti-aging:
Hemp oil is particularly rich in omega 6 and omega 3. These polyunsaturated fatty acids are called “essential” because they are not synthesized by the body. It is therefore important to ensure that they are provided externally (diet, supplementation, etc.). They play a particularly important role in maintaining the beauty and quality of the skin. True lipid cement, they help strengthen the hydrolipidic barrier and thus limit water loss and the risk of dehydration. They also reduce the signs of skin aging thanks to their nourishing and plumping properties that restore the skin's suppleness and elasticity.
Finally, hemp oil helps fight against oxidative stress thanks to the vitamin E it contains, known for its antioxidant properties.
Sensitive and problem skin:
In addition to their moisturizing and anti-aging action, the omega 3s contained in hemp oil are recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties and are particularly useful for sensitive and/or problem skin. Hemp oil is soothing and reduces redness to restore a fresh and radiant complexion.
If you still hesitate to use cosmetic products containing hemp, know that there are no contraindications to its use externally on the skin. Hemp authorized on the cosmetic market contains no or very little THC and presents no known danger to your health. Are you still hesitating? Read instead.
Hemp oil, a real ally for beautiful skin
For or against face oil, the debate is open and opinions differ. It is true that not all oils are suitable for all skin types. For example, certain oils, such as coconut oil or rosehip oil, should be avoided for oily or acne-prone skin because of their comedogenic effect. Hemp oil, on the contrary, is very well tolerated. It does not clog the pores of the skin, thus allowing the physiological evacuation of sebum. In addition, it leaves a dry, non-greasy finish that is particularly pleasant and comfortable. But beware, like all products that are applied to the skin, it is better to be vigilant and ensure the quality and origin of the ingredients it contains.
At Days of Confidence , we develop manufacturing processes that respect the ingredients we use to ensure optimal effectiveness. The virgin hemp oil contained in our purifying cleanser is obtained by cold pressing in order to preserve the integrity of the active ingredients. Of 100% French origin, it is combined with kaolin clay and floral extracts for a gentle cleansing action that does not dry out the skin. A natural and effective synergy that highlights hemp, the new ecological ally of our beauty routines.
We never thought hemp would rhyme with beauty one day and yet, this ingredient with multiple properties is establishing itself more and more on the cosmetics market, not without reason. Moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, there are countless benefits for the skin. But hemp isn't just a forgotten ingredient brought back into fashion for its authentic charm. It is one of those effective, local and ecological natural active ingredients that make it possible to reconcile beauty and responsibility. A real gem that we would be wrong to deprive ourselves of.
Sources:
https://www.interchanvre.org/interchanvre
https://www.thegoodgoods.fr/matieres/hemp/
https://jardinage.lemonde.fr/dossier-1886-chanvre-agricole-cannabis-sativa.html
https://www.lepoint.fr/stories/quel-cbd-est-legal-en-france-02-11-2022-2496235_3919.php#11
https://www.marieclaire.fr/chanvre-cannabis-cosmetique-beaute,1265250.asp
https://www.elle.fr/Beaute/Soins/Tendances/Que-penser-du-chanvre-dans-les-cosmetiques-3844232
