Short answer: Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil is the international INCI name for hemp seed oil — a vegetable oil cold-pressed from the hemp seed. It contains neither CBD nor THC, because the seed forms no cannabinoids. In skincare it is used for its softening and skin-conditioning properties and its high content of omega-3 and omega-6.
Why does it say "Cannabis" on my face cream?
All cosmetic ingredients in the EU must be given by their INCI name (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) — a standardised, Latin-based name that is the same worldwide. Hemp is Cannabis sativa in Latin, so all hemp-based ingredients start with "Cannabis Sativa" — whether they come from the seed, leaf or stalk, and whether or not they contain cannabinoids.
Hemp's names on the INCI list — a glossary
- Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil — hemp seed oil. Pressed from the seed. No cannabinoids. Rich in omega-3/6 and linoleic acid. Softening, skin-conditioning.
- Cannabis Sativa Seed Extract — extract of hemp seed. No cannabinoids. Hydrating and skin-conditioning, common in lighter formulations such as mists and serums.
- Cannabidiol (CBD) — the isolated cannabinoid. Listed in the EU ingredient database CosIng with functions such as antioxidant and skin-conditioning.
- Cannabis Sativa Leaf Extract — leaf extract. May occur but is scrutinised more closely, as leaves can contain traces of cannabinoids.
Rule of thumb: "Seed" in the name = from the seed = free of cannabinoids.
What does hemp seed oil do for the skin?
Hemp seed oil's fatty-acid profile — roughly 3:1 between omega-6 and omega-3 — is close to the skin's own composition, which makes it easy for the skin to take up. As a cosmetic ingredient it is softening and skin-conditioning without feeling greasy, so it suits everything from facial oils to balms. We have written more about the oil here: what is hemp oil?
In our skincare line Natural Beauty by Kannavalley, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil is a recurring base ingredient — the same seed as in our foods, in a new role.
Frequently asked questions
Does Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil contain THC?
No. The seed forms no cannabinoids — pure hemp seed oil is free of both THC and CBD. More on THC in CBD skincare.
Are products with Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil legal?
Yes, entirely — hemp seed oil is a common cosmetic ingredient without restrictions. About the legality of CBD cosmetics here.
Is hemp seed oil in skincare the same oil as in the kitchen?
The same seed and pressing method — but cosmetic oil follows the cosmetics legislation's purity and documentation requirements.
What does INCI mean?
International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients — the global standard system for naming cosmetic ingredients, mandatory in the EU.