Hemp Shampoo UK Shopping Guide
Hemp Shampoo UK Shopping Guide
Dipping your body into a bathtub or having a shower after a long, tiring day is often an invigorating experience. What better way to enhance your delight than using hemp shampoos, which are infused with several organic botanicals to improve your hair health? This article explores hemp shampoos in the UK, where to buy them, how to buy them, their benefits, and frequently asked questions about hemp shampoos.
Due to their therapeutic effects, hemp shampoos have firmly cemented their place in the hair care industry. They are affordable and are widely available in local and online stores. Hemp shampoos are legal in the UK, as hemp was legalized in 2018 and was removed from the Controlled Substances List due to its non-psychoactive properties. They are user-friendly and can be used in the morning and evening to protect and moisturize your scalp. While purchasing hemp shampoos, there are several factors to consider. Product quality is the most important, so be on the lookout for the ingredients, hemp source, and lab tests. It is imperative to comprehend the medical benefits of hemp shampoos and their possible side effects.
Understanding Hemp
Hemp is a plant strain of the cannabis plant. It contains cannabis compounds known as cannabinoids, including CBD (cannabidiol), CBC (cannabichromene), and CBG (cannabigerol). It is different from marijuana, an active plant strain of the cannabis plant that causes euphoric effects due to higher levels of psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Ahmed & Katz (2016) stated that hemp relieves inflammation and pain and reduces higher anxiety and stress levels. CBD oil and hemp seed oil can be extracted from different parts of the hemp plant; the latter is derived from hemp seeds, while CBD oil is obtained from the leaves, roots, and stems of the hemp plant. Although hemp seed oil does not contain any cannabinoids or chemical compounds, it is abundant in essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Kris-Etherton et al. (2019) stated that omega-3 fatty acids relieve higher blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
Hemp Shampoo UK Shopping Guide
Choosing the right quality of hemp shampoo is imperative to guarantee efficacy. Lower-quality hemp shampoos may worsen the condition affecting your hair. While shopping for hemp shampoo, you need to know its benefits, possible side effects, and what you should focus on while buying it. This helps you choose affordable, higher-quality products.
What Is Hemp Shampoo?
Hemp shampoo is not too different from regular shampoos. However, it is infused with organic botanicals such as hemp, jojoba, and coconut oil. Hemp shampoo is often used to improve fragile, flat, and brittle hair and effectively removes bacteria from the scalp.
Ning et al. (2022) stated that hemp shampoos have several antioxidants that relieve oxidative stress on the scalp and hair follicles. They are also abundant in essential oils and vitamins that enhance hair growth by moisturizing your hair. The shampoos regulate oil production to ensure your hair follicles remain stronger.
Di Giacomo et al. (2021) stated that hemp shampoos have anti-inflammatory properties that relieve irritation and inflammation and remove dandruff from your hair.
Where Can I Buy Hemp Shampoos In the UK?
Hemp shampoos are available in several local and online stores. Ensure you read the customer reviews on the company's website to get more insight into the brand's authenticity and product quality. Also, read the company's policy, and be on the lookout for the brand's Certificate of Analysis.
What to Consider When Purchasing Hemp Shampoos
Hemp Source
Ensure the product is obtained from organically grown hemp. Locally grown hemp is often preferred since it's easy to verify whether it underwent organic farming techniques. Such techniques ensure the hemp plant remains pure and highly potent. Inorganically grown hemp plants may be infused with harmful chemical substances that affect the product's potency and purity
Pricing
Although higher-quality hemp shampoos often cost more, expensive prices do not guarantee higher quality. You may also want to avoid extremely cheap hemp shampoos since the product may not meet the required quality standards. Ensure you purchase affordable shampoos that contain organic botanicals
Third-Party Tests
It is necessary to confirm whether the product has undergone intensive independent third-party lab tests. The lab tests are conducted to determine the product's ingredients, purity, and potency levels. Reputable brands prioritize customer satisfaction; thus, their products are often tested independently, and the results are displayed on the company's Certificate of Analysis (CoA). The CoA is available on the brand's website, and a physical copy can also be delivered to you upon request. Desist from purchasing hemp shampoos from brands that do not display their Certificate of Analysis.
Extraction Method
Cannabinoids in hemp can be extracted using CO2 extraction and alcohol extraction. However, CO2 extraction is more popular among manufacturers since it retains the hemp extract's purity and potency. On the other hand, alcohol extraction may leave behind solvent residues in the extract, which may lower the hemp quality.
Ingredients
While purchasing hemp shampoos, ensure no synthetic ingredients, such as molds, sulfates, pesticides, dimethicone, and heavy metals, may interfere with the product's quality. Synthetic ingredients may cause unwarranted reactions on the scalp, causing irritation, redness, and inflammation.
Legality
Most cities in the UK have legalized hemp shampoos. However, some cities have additional restrictions on hemp products; it's important to confirm the laws in your area.
Benefits of Hemp Shampoos
Enhancing Hair Growth
Suggested that hemp shampoos contain several essential oils and vitamins that strengthen the hair follicles.
Branca et al. (2020) stated that hemp extracts improve blood flow around the scalp. Improved blood circulation increases the number of nutrients transported to body tissues, and these nutrients are vital for hair growth
Reducing Inflammation
Orlando et al. (2020) stated that hemp shampoos have anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate inflammation, irritation, and redness around the scalp.
Hemp extracts such as CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex modulatory system comprising endocannabinoids, enzymes, and receptors. CBD binds indirectly with CB2 receptors, abundant in the peripheral nervous system and other body parts such as the skin. This interaction causes the transmission of impulses to pain receptors, reducing pain and inflammation.
Preventing Dehydration on the Scalp
Baral et al. (2020) stated that hemp shampoos have moisturizing properties that enhance hydration around the scalp and hair follicles. Hemp penetrates the inner skin layers and enhances the function of the sebaceous glands, regulating sebum production. The underproduction of sebum causes dehydration around the scalp, making your hair fragile, flaky, and brittle.
Reducing Stress-Induced Hair Loss
Hormonal stress is considered a huge contributor to hair loss. Suggested that hemp relieves air loss caused by hormonal stress due to its anti-anxiety properties.
VanDolah et al. (2019) proved that The cannabinoids in hemp, such as CBD, alleviate higher levels of stress and anxiety by enhancing the activity of Gamma AminoButryic Acid (GABA) in the brain. Cannabidiol triggers the increased production of 5-HTP receptors, which can be converted into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that relieves stress and anxiety by reducing cortisol levels in the body.
Preventing Hair Breakage
Crini et al. (2020) showed that hemp shampoos prevent hair breakage often caused by pollutants such as dust. The study above also suggested that hemp's antioxidant properties prevent oxidative stress on the scalp, removing harmful chemicals that limit hair growth
How to Use a Hemp Shampoo
- Place a nickel amount of hemp shampoo onto your hair, preferably damp.
- Slowly massage your hair and scalp for about 5 minutes
- Rinse your hair with water
Are Hemp Shampoos Suitable for all Hair Types?
Hemp shampoos effectively improve hair health and reduce fragility, breakage, and dehydration. The shampoos also remove harmful bacteria, detangle clogged hair and remove split ends. Hemp shampoos are suitable for all hair types, although it's important to read the ingredients and ensure no synthetic substances exist. Moreover, hemp shampoos do not adversely affect keratin treatments or colored hair.
How Are Hemp Shampoos Formulated?
Hemp shampoos are weakly acidic as they have a pH ranging from 4-6. They are effective on the hair follicles since they don't contain soap but other vitamins, nutrients, and essential oils, such as jojoba oil. Hemp shampoos enhance hydration around the hair and do not strip away the natural oils that enhance hair growth.
Habbal (2020) claimed that some hemp shampoos are 2-in-1 since they can also function as conditioners. They minimize hair breakage and fragility and improve hair strength and sheen. Moreover, they remove harmful bacteria and soothe hair follicles.
Can Hemp Shampoo Relieve Alopecia?
Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder caused by the rapid shrinking of the hair cells by the white blood cells. It causes hair breakage and, eventually, hair loss and affects several demographics.
Intense hair breakage, rough nails, visible white spots on the scalp, and growth of white hair in areas with hair loss can notice alopecia.
Nafis et al. (2019) stated that hemp shampoo has antimicrobial properties that may relieve symptoms of alopecia. Furthermore, hemp has antioxidant properties that relieve oxidative stress, which may otherwise worsen the condition.
Can Hemp Shampoo Relieve Scalp Psoriasis?
Most people believe that psoriasis only affects the skin, especially the hands, joints, and feet. However, it can also affect the scalp and irritate it.
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition caused by a rapid build-up of skin cells, causing the skin to become scaly. It also affects the scalp, causing inflammation, redness, and temporary hair loss.
Hemp has anti-inflammatory properties that relieve inflammation in the muscles, skin, and tissues. Moreover, it has antioxidant properties that remove free radicals from the skin and antimicrobial properties that remove harmful bacteria.
Does The Hemp Shampoo Get Into Your Bloodstream?
Since the hemp shampoo is administered onto the scalp, it only works topically. Therefore, it does not penetrate deeper into the body tissues, although it does penetrate the upper skin layers.
The cannabinoids in hemp interact with the endocannabinoid receptors under the skin, reducing inflammation and pain. Furthermore, they enhance skin hydration by regulating sebum production.
FAQs
Hemp Soap Vs. Hemp Shampoo
Hemp soap is a cleansing agent used on the skin. It is available in liquid or bar form and is infused with various essential oils such as jojoba oil, lavender oil, and hemp seed oil.
Hemp soap can be used on the skin due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Although hemp soap may be used on hair, it is less effective than hemp shampoo. Kotnala et al. (2017) stated that it is highly recommended that hemp shampoo only be used on your hair, as it works effectively on the scalp, strengthening the sheen and reducing hair fragility
Does Hemp Shampoo Make You Feel High?
Although hemp shampoo may contain cannabinoids such as CBD and traces of psychoactive THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the shampoo does not cause any psychoactive effects. It does not penetrate deeper into the bloodstream and only interacts with CB2 receptors, which do not cause euphoric effects but reduce inflammation.
Why Are Hemp Shampoos Better Than Regular Shampoos?
Hemp shampoos have bioactive ingredients, which exhibit unique therapeutic properties that enhance hair growth.
- Hemp shampoos are also suitable for vegetarian people.
- Most hemp shampoos are not infused with GMO or other synthetic ingredients. Furthermore, most brands avoid using petrochemicals and preservatives that destroy the hemp's quality.
- Hemp shampoos are suitable for all skin types, including oily skin, dry skin, problem skin, and combination skin.
Can Kids Use Hemp Shampoo?
Some brands offer specially formulated hemp shampoos for kids, ensuring it's effective and safe. However, seek medical advice if any unwarranted effects occur. Furthermore, avoid hemp shampoos that contain substances you or your child is allergic to.
Which Are The Most Common Ingredients In Hemp Shampoos?
Hemp shampoos mainly contain hemp seed oil, which contains several essential oils and fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6. Combarros et al. (2020) stated that omega-3 acids enhance hair growth and prevent breakage. The hemp seed oil also contains silicon, phosphorus, calcium, and sodium.
Some hemp shampoos may contain collagen, a vital protein found naturally in our bodies, responsible for providing strength and support to skin cells and various body tissues.
How Often Should I Use Hemp Shampoo?
Depending on your hair type and scalp health, hemp shampoo is normally advised once or twice weekly. You might apply it more frequently if your hair is dry or damaged. It's also crucial to adhere to the directions on the product container for the best results.
Can Hemp Shampoo Be Used On Men's and Women's Hair?
Men and women can use hemp shampoo. It is a hair care product that is appropriate for both men and women and can be used by anyone who wants to hydrate and nourish their hair and scalp.
The Bottom Line
Hemp shampoo has been widely embraced in the UK due to its organic botanicals and unique therapeutic properties. It is a hair care item that uses hemp oil or hemp extract as its primary component. The hemp plant seeds are used to make hemp oil, which is prized for its nourishing and conditioning qualities.
Hemp shampoo can be used on men's and women's hair and can be administered to all hair types. Hemp shampoo can be used once or twice per week, although you may need to increase your frequency of use if you experience hair fragility or breakage.
The scalp and hair can benefit from hemp shampoo's nourishing and moisturizing properties. Additionally, it may aid in enhancing the general look and health of the hair, including lowering dryness and enhancing gloss. Some people discover that hemp shampoo can reduce dandruff and soothe itching scalps.
References
Baral, P., Bagul, V., & Gajbhiye, S. (2020). Hemp Seed Oil For Skin Care (Non-Drug Cannabis Sativa L.): A Review. World Journal Of Pharmaceutical Research, 9(8), 2534-2556.
Branca, J. J. V., Carrino, D., & Pacini, A. (2020). Targeting Cannabidiol To Specific Areas Of The Brain: An Ultrasound-Based Strategy. Neural Regeneration Research, 15(12), 2247.
Combarros, D., Castilla-Castaño, E., Lecru, L. A., Pressanti, C., Amalric, N., & Cadiergues, M. C. (2020). A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Evaluation Of The Effects Of An N-3 Essential Fatty Acids Supplement (Agepi® Ω3) On Clinical Signs And Fatty Acid Concentrations In The Erythrocyte Membrane, Hair Shafts And Skin Surface Of Dogs With Poor Quality Coats. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, And Essential Fatty Acids, 159, 102140.
Di Giacomo, V., Recinella, L., Chiavaroli, A., Orlando, G., Cataldi, A., Rapino, M., ... & Ferrante, C. (2021). Metabolomic Profile And Antioxidant/Anti-Inflammatory Effects Of Industrial Hemp Water Extract In Fibroblasts, Keratinocytes, And Isolated Mouse Skin Specimens. Antioxidants, 10(1), 44.
Kris-Etherton, P. M., Richter, C. K., Bowen, K. J., Skulas-Ray, A. C., Jackson, K. H., Petersen, K. S., & Harris, W. S. (2019). Recent Clinical Trials Shed New Light On The Cardiovascular Benefits Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Methodist Debakey Cardiovascular Journal, 15(3), 171.
Nafis, A., Kasrati, A., Jamali, C. A., Mezrioui, N., Setzer, W., Abbad, A., & Hassani, L. (2019). Antioxidant Activity And Evidence For Synergism Of Cannabis Sativa (L.) Essential Oil With Antimicrobial Standards. Industrial Crops And Products, 137, 396-400
Ning, K., Hou, C., Wei, X., Zhou, Y., Zhang, S., Chen, Y., ... & Chen, S. (2022). Metabolomics Analysis Revealed The Characteristics of Hemp Seeds Varieties And Metabolites Responsible For Antioxidant Properties. Frontiers In Plant Science, 13.
Orlando, G., Recinella, L., Chiavaroli, A., Brunetti, L., Leone, S., Carradori, S., ... & Ferrante, C. (2020). Water Extract From Inflorescences Of Industrial Hemp Futura 75 Variety As A Source Of Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Proliferative And Antimycotic Agents: Results From In Silico, In Vitro And Ex Vivo Studies. Antioxidants, 9(5), 437.