Hemp, one of the oldest crops in human history, is used in numerous areas, from textile production to the food industry and medicine. In recent years, hemp but has also gained importance in the cosmetics industry. This trend is mainly due to the cannabinoids contained in the plant, such as cannabidiol (CBD), which have versatile skin and hair care properties. But what does science say about this? What exact mechanisms of action of hemp extracts and hemp oils have been proven so far, and what advantages does the plant offer in daily skin and hair care?
Hemp and the skin’s endocannabinoid system
The human endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors involved in various physiological processes, including the regulation of inflammatory processes, skin homeostasis, and the immune response. Interestingly, the skin has its own ECS, which can be stimulated by the topical application of cannabinoids such as CBD.
It has been proven that hemp extracts can reduce inflammation in the skin and support the healing process by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors. This could explain why hemp products are increasingly being used to relieve skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis.
Hemp as an anti-inflammatory agent in skin care
Chronic inflammation is often the cause of many skin problems, from acne to atopic dermatitis. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD have already been proven in various studies. C
BD can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and thus minimize the occurrence of inflammatory reactions. At the same time, experiments have observed that the application of hemp oil to the skin leads to a significant reduction in redness and swelling. Therefore, hemp is considered a promising alternative to conventional anti-inflammatory agents in dermatology.
Hemp oil and the restoration of the skin barrier
One of the main functions of the skin is to protect the body from harmful environmental influences and to maintain moisture. If the skin barrier is damaged, as is the case with dry or aging skin, this can lead to increased moisture loss and a higher risk of infections.
Hemp oil contains an ideal balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which strengthen the skin barrier and regulate the skin’s water balance. A study examining the moisturizing effect of hemp oil showed that regular use of hemp oil leads to a significant improvement of skin elasticity and firmness led.
Antioxidant effect of hemp in skin care
Free radicals, caused by UV radiation and pollution, are considered one of the main causes of premature skin aging. These unstable molecules attack cells and cause oxidative stress, which damages skin cells. Hemp extracts, especially CBD, have been shown to be powerful antioxidants that can neutralize the effects of free radicals. These antioxidant properties help slow down the skin aging process by reducing the formation of wrinkles and age spots.
Hemp offers numerous benefits not only for the skin, but also for hair care. The fatty acids and vitamins contained in hemp oil have a positive effect on the health of the scalp and hair. A healthy scalp is the basis for strong hair growth, and studies have shown that hemp oil can soothe the scalp and relieve skin irritation. In addition, hemp oil helps to maintain the moisture balance of the scalp, which is particularly beneficial for people with dry or flaky scalps.
The nourishing properties of hemp oil also make it an ideal ingredient for strengthening the hair structure. Hemp oil penetrates deep into the hair, supplies it with nutrients and helps reduce hair breakage. In combination with other natural oils such as argan oil or jojoba oil, hemp oil can help make hair smoother and shinier.
A study published in 2021 found that topical applications of CBD in the form of hemp oil significantly improved hair growth in patients with androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss). In a six-month study, participants experienced an average Increase in hair growth by 93.5%, which is attributed to the anti-inflammatory and growth-promoting properties of CBD, which bind to CB1 and TRPV receptors and strengthen hair follicles.
Another study investigated the effect of biomaterials derived from germinated hemp seeds on hair stem cells. These also showed promising results by activating genes that promote hair growth while suppressing those that lead to hair loss. This Research results indicate that hemp extracts have the potential to protect hair follicles and stimulate hair growth.
Hemp and the treatment of scalp diseases
Scalp conditions such as psoriasis or seborrhoeic dermatitis can lead to severe hair loss if left untreated. The anti-inflammatory properties of hemp oil and CBD make it a promising approach in the treatment of these conditions. In a clinical study that examined the Effects of CBD in patients with psoriasis showed a significant reduction in inflammatory symptoms and an improvement in skin condition. This suggests that hemp oil can also be an effective supplement in the treatment of scalp problems.
Future research: potential and challenges
Research into hemp in cosmetics is still in its early stages, and although numerous positive effects have already been proven, there are still many unanswered questions. In particular, the effect of hemp in higher concentrations and over longer periods of time still needs to be investigated in more detail. It also remains to be clarified how different extraction processes affect the effectiveness of the ingredients. The interactions of hemp with other cosmetic active ingredients have also been little researched so far.
Another exciting field is the use of hemp in anti-aging cosmetics. Initial results suggest that hemp extracts stimulate collagen production and could thus slow down the skin’s aging process. However, further studies are needed to understand the exact mechanisms and determine the optimal dosage.
Conclusion
Hemp offers enormous potential in cosmetics based on scientifically sound findings. The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and moisturizing properties make hemp a valuable ingredient for skin and hair care products.
While the studies to date are promising, research in this area remains dynamic and the importance of hemp in cosmetics is expected to continue to grow. Hemp is proving to be a versatile active ingredient with lasting effects, particularly in the treatment of skin diseases and hair care.
23.08.2024