Many skincare oils are on the health market today, so it can be challenging to decide which one is best for you. Two popular choices (and competitors for your skin) are hemp seed oil and rosehip oil. While they have some similarities and skin benefits, there are essential differences between the two oils that you need to know before deciding. Let us look at hemp seed oil and rosehip oil to see which one is best for you.
What is hemp seed oil?
Hemp seed oil, also known as hempseed oil, is made from Cannabis Sativa but contains little or no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). That's the cannabinoid (chemical compound) that's psychoactive and makes people feel drowsy. Instead of THC, hemp contains cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical used to treat a wide range of health ailments, from epilepsy all the way to anxiety.
Hemp oil is becoming an increasingly popular treatment for various conditions, including skin problems and stress. Although more research is needed, it may contain properties that help reduce the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease. Hemp seed oil may also reduce body inflammation.
In addition to CBD, hemp oil is rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fats - two types of unsaturated fats or 'good fats' - and all nine essential amino acids - substances used by the body to make proteins. Find out more about the nutrients in hemp seed oil and how they can benefit your health here.
Nutritional Information
Hemp seed oil is derived from hemp seeds. In one 3 tbsp serving of hemp seeds, you will find the following:
- Calories: 170
- Calories from fat: 108
- Total fat: 12 grams
- Saturated fats: 1 gram
- Trans fats: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 grams
- Total carbohydrates: 5 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Protein: 10 grams
Hemp seeds also contain minerals and nutrients:
- Vitamin C
- Calcium
- Iron
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Gamma-linolenic acid
- Arginine
- Magnesium
- B vitamins
Many of these nutrients provide essential minerals to the body and contribute to one's overall health. We want to point out that hemp seeds contain a significant iron (20% of the recommended daily allowance). This helps prevent iron deficiency or anemia.
Potential health benefits of hemp seed oil
Hemp seed oil helps to treat a variety of health conditions. Studies show that hemp nutrients and minerals can help improve skin and heart health and reduce inflammation. Here is a more deep look at what the research says about the potential health benefits of hemp seed oil.
Improved cardiovascular health
Hemp seed oil contains the amino acid arginine. Studies have shown that this ingredient promotes cardiovascular health. A diet high in arginine may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Fewer cramps.
Some studies show that CBD in hemp seed oil decreases seizures in rare types of childhood epilepsy that have shown resistance to other treatments, Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Regular use of CBD can also reduce seizures caused by the tuberous sclerosis complex, which causes tumors to form throughout the body.
Reducing inflammation.
Over time, excessive inflammation in the body can contribute to many diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer and asthma. Gamma-linolenic acid, an excellent omega-6 fatty acid found in cannabis, is thought to act as an anti-inflammatory. Studies also link the omega-3 fatty acids found in hemp to reduced inflammation.
Healthier skin
Applying hemp seed oil to the skin can also reduce symptoms and bring relief for many skin conditions. Hemp seed oil was shown in one study to act as an effective treatment for acne, although more research is needed in this area. In addition, consuming hemp seed oil has been found to improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis, or eczema, due to the "good" polyunsaturated fats.
Reduces oily skin
Cannabis oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores and may actually reduce the secretion of sebum, or oil, from the skin.
Potential Risks of Hemp Seed Oil
Although hemp and marijuana come from the same cannabis plant, hemp contains little or no THC. This means that hemp use is legal in the U.S. and does not cause intoxication or harm.
Overall, hemp seed oil is safe to take orally or topically, but there are some points to consider if you decide to start using the oil of the cannabis seed. Pay close attention to the following potential risks of using cannabis seed oil:
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation can be experienced when using topical oils containing CBD, caused by allergies. Some people may react to cannabis CBD, which can cause allergic reactions. We advise starting with a small amount to quickly see how your skin reacts and monitor any changes.
Gastrointestinal problems
It is possible that ingestion of oils containing CBD, such as hemp oil, may cause stomach upset or diarrhoea. Again, if this is your first time adding hemp oil to your diet, start small to see how it affects you. Reactions can vary from person to person.
What is Rosehip oil?
Rosehip oil, also known as rosehip seed oil, is a pressed seed oil that has been prized since ancient times for its many healing properties, making it especially useful for people with sensitive skin.
"Rosehip oil is extracted from the small fruit beneath the rose," says Zickner. "It is now a popular ingredient in skincare products because of its moisturizing and anti-ageing properties."
Rosehip oil has many benefits (more on that below), but first and foremost, it is a super-effective emollient and moisturizer."
"Owing to its high content of essential fatty acids, especially the all popular omega-3 (linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid), this oil can effectively soften the skin and improve its barrier function," says Plescia.
Although this oil may seem controversial and is sometimes considered unsuitable for oily/rash skin, rosehip seed oil is the best natural oil for blemished skin. "The high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids (also known as linoleic acid) in rosehip oil is particularly good for those who suffer from terrible acne".
Studies have shown that people prone to acne are deficient in this specific fatty acid and that topical application can reduce the size of blemishes. Pleshia adds, " Linoleic acid also helps treat hyperpigmentation".
Benefits of rosehip oil for the skin
Regenerates and heals the skin
Thanks to its high concentration of vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 and K, rosehip oil is known worldwide for its exceptional regenerative and healing properties.
Promotes collagen production and skin elasticity
Studies have shown that after eight weeks of use, rosehip oil significantly improved crow's feet, moisture levels and skin elasticity.
Helps lighten and even out skin tone
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin C, which helps lighten the skin to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
It has significant restorative properties
One study proved that post-surgical patients using rosehip seed oil improved the overall appearance of their scars.
Powerful hydration and moisturization
Rosehip oil contains linoleic acid and other essential fatty acids, making it the best means of quickly moisturizing the skin. It also retains moisture and is easily absorbed into the skin.
Soothes inflammation
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin E and anthocyanins, both soothe and reduce irritation, making it useful for those dealing with rosacea, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Fights acne
"For acne-prone skin, rosehip oil may be beneficial because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, as well as its low comedogenic properties," explains King.
Rosehip oil side effects
Rosehip oil has no known side effects (at least to our knowledge) and is generally safe for all skin types. However, you should always test before adding new products to your routine.
How to use rosehip oil
Please apply directly to your skin or use it as a carrier oil for other, more effective facial oils. Although it is included in many skincare products, rosehip oil is most often found pure and applied directly to the skin.
Rosehip oil should be kept in the dark amber bottle to protect it from UV rays, which can reduce the product's effectiveness if exposed to the sun, and kept in a cool, dark place (not your fridge, please).
We advise using rosehip oil up to twice a day, both in the morning and evening.
Our preferred way to use this oil is to apply it directly to your skin or add it to your favorite moisturizer.
Rosehip oil can be found in all types of skincare products, from lotions to serums. Facial oils, whether blended or pure, are the perfect way to experience the potency and benefits of this oil.
Our final verdict on hemp seed oil or rosehip oil
Both hemp seed oil and rosehip oil are great for the skin, but we believe that hemp seed oil is the better option. It is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and is low in comedogenicity. It also helps to even out skin tone, regenerate and heal the skin, and fight acne. Hemp oil can be used by all skin types and is best suited for oily or rash-prone skin.