When you’re making your own cosmetic products, picking the right essential oils for cannabis skincare really matters. It can totally change how your products feel and work! Sure, we all know about popular oils like Lavender and Tea Tree, but there’s actually a bunch of lesser-known essential oils out there that can really take your creations to the next level! Here are some of the best essential oils for cannabis skincare that pair beautifully with cannabis, offering unique benefits for healthy, radiant skin.
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Why Essential Oils Elevate Cannabis Skincare
Cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes bring a wealth of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-calming properties to skincare. When paired with the right essential oils, these benefits are amplified. Essential oils offer additional therapeutic effects, from cellular regeneration to deep hydration, creating potent, synergistic blends.
Picking the right essential oils can really boost the benefits of cannabis and tackle different skin problems. It makes your skincare routine more unique and special to you!
5 Essential Oils for Cannabis Skincare
These oils could be used individually or as part of a blend. As a general rule, I suggest using no more than 1% dilution (20 drops in 99g of product) to be safe.
Clary Sage Oil — Hormonal Balance and Skin Clarity
Clary Sage essential oil is a powerful ally in balancing hormonal fluctuations that often affect the skin. It has natural astringent and antibacterial properties, making it particularly effective for oily or acne-prone skin. When combined with the oil’s terpenes and CBD, Clary Sage helps regulate sebum production and promotes clearer, more even-toned skin.
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- Aroma: Fresh, herbaceous, slightly sweet, with soft floral and earthy notes.
- Common Names: Clary Sage, Clear Eye, Clarywort.
- Method of Extraction: Steam distillation.
- Plant Part Used: Flowering tops and leaves.
- INCI Name: Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil.
- Predominant Terpenes: Linalool, Linalyl acetate, Germacrene D.
- Complementary Cannabis Strains: Do-Si-Dos, Zkittlez, Amnesia Haze.
Therapeutic Uses
- Emotional: Reduces stress, balances mood swings, eases depression.
- Physical: Balances hormones, alleviates menstrual cramps, supports sleep.
- Skin Care: Regulates oily skin, soothes inflammation, clears complexion.
- Hair Care: Balances scalp oils, strengthens follicles, reduces dandruff.
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Myrrh Oil — Deep Nourishment and Antioxidant Boost
Myrrh has been revered since ancient times for its incredible skin-rejuvenating properties. Rich in antioxidants, it protects the skin from environmental stressors and promotes healing. Its natural anti-inflammatory compounds enhance the calming effects of cannabis, making it ideal for mature, dry, or sensitive skin formulations.
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- Aroma: Warm, rich, smoky, slightly sweet-balsamic.
- Common Names: Myrrh, African Myrrh, Gum Myrrh.
- Method of Extraction: Steam distillation.
- Plant Part Used: Resin.
- INCI Name: Commiphora Myrrha Oil.
- Predominant Terpenes: Curzerene, Furanoeudesma-1,3-diene, Lindestrene.
- Complementary Cannabis Strains: Afghan Kush, Master Kush, Kosher Kush.
Therapeutic Uses
- Emotional: Grounding, spiritual connection, eases grief.
- Physical: Anti-inflammatory, boosts immunity, wound healing.
- Skin Care: Heals dry, cracked skin, reduces fine lines, soothes eczema.
- Hair Care: Moisturises scalp, adds shine, heals minor scalp irritations.
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Black Spruce Oil — Soothing and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Black Spruce is a deeply soothing oil, ideal for calming reactive or irritated skin. Its grounding, resinous aroma pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of cannabis extracts, creating a luxurious sensory experience. Read 20 Benefits & Uses of Black Spruce Essential Oil.
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- Aroma: Fresh, crisp, woody, sweet resinous undertones.
- Common Names: Black Spruce, Picea Mariana, Canadian Spruce.
- Method of Extraction: Steam distillation.
- Plant Part Used: Needles and twigs.
- INCI Name: Picea Mariana (Black Spruce) Leaf Oil.
- Predominant Terpenes: Bornyl acetate, Camphene, α-Pinene.
- Complementary Cannabis Strains: Jack Herer, Blue Dream, OG Kush.
Therapeutic Uses
- Emotional: Grounds during emotional exhaustion, relieves fatigue.
- Physical: Eases muscle aches, supports respiratory health.
- Skin Care: Calms eczema, psoriasis, refreshes stressed skin.
- Hair Care: Strengthens hair, refreshes scalp, balances oil.
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Elemi Oil — Skin Revitalization and Healing
*Elemi essential oil (paid link) is often seen as the “younger sibling” of Frankincense, excelling at revitalising tired and stressed skin. It’s remarkable in anti-ageing eye serums. Its healing and anti-inflammatory qualities make it a perfect match for cannabis-infused rejuvenating skincare products.
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- Aroma: Fresh, lemony, peppery, resinous.
- Common Names: Elemi, Manila Elemi, Canarium.
- Method of Extraction: Steam distillation.
- Plant Part Used: Resin.
- INCI Name: Canarium Luzonicum (Elemi) Gum Oil.
- Predominant Terpenes: Limonene, Elemol, α-Phellandrene.
- Complementary Cannabis Strains: Super Lemon Haze, Durban Poison, Tangie.
Therapeutic Uses
- Emotional: Uplifting, mental clarity, reduces anxiety.
- Physical: Immune support, respiratory aid, mild pain relief.
- Skin Care: Speeds healing, smooths fine lines, revitalises dull skin.
- Hair Care: Boosts scalp circulation, soothes sensitivity, freshens scalp.
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Hinoki Oil — Calming and Protective Benefits
Hinoki essential oil is made from Japanese Cypress heartwood and has calming and purifying effects, along with mild antimicrobial properties. It lends a warm tranquility to cannabis skincare formulations, promoting peace and relaxation.
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- Aroma: Soft, woody, crisp with light citrus nuances.
- Common Names: Hinoki Cypress, Japanese Cypress.
- Method of Extraction: Steam distillation.
- Plant Part Used: Heartwood.
- INCI Name: Chamaecyparis Obtusa Oil.
- Predominant Terpenes: α-Pinene, δ-Cadinene, Terpinolene.
- Complementary Cannabis Strains: Dutch Treat, Jack Herer, Golden Goat.
Therapeutic Uses
- Emotional: Deep relaxation, relieves worry, enhances mindfulness.
- Physical: Antimicrobial support, soothes aches, aids breathing.
- Skin Care: Purifies pores, calms sensitive skin, antibacterial for acne.
- Hair Care: Clarifies scalp, strengthens roots, adds a clean, crisp scent.
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You can print out the 5 essential oils as a downloadable PDF. Want to see how these essential oils fit into a complete wellness routine? Check out this Holistic Aromatherapy Guide.
For the complementary cannabis strains in each section, I recommend buying seeds from Blimburn Seeds.
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How to Incorporate These Oils into Your Routine
Making your own skincare products is easy. You can choose carrier oils for CBD infusion and any essential oils you like for cannabis skincare. There are others you can choose from and learn about.
DIY Recipes and Tips
- Diffuser: When it comes to diffusers, you’ve got a lot of choices out there. Personally, I think a USB Bebulising diffuser is the way to go. It works better and is way safer than those old tea light ones.
- Balms and Salves: Add 0.5% to 1% of your chosen essential oil(s) to a cannabis-infused balm base for targeted skin support. Try this Solid Facial Oil or maybe this CBD Massage Candle.
- Serums: Mix essential oils with carrier oils, such as jojoba or hemp seed oil infused with cannabis, to make lightweight, effective serums. Read more about Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil.
- Creams and Lotions: Enhance cannabis creams by incorporating a few drops of these essential oils during the cool-down phase of formulation. Try this FREE Cannabis Lotion formulation.
Safety and Dilution Guidelines
Essential oils are highly concentrated. Always adhere to safe dilution rates, typically between 0.5% and 1% for facial skincare products. Conduct patch tests before widespread use, and avoid essential oils that may be contraindicated for certain medical conditions or pregnancy.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Skincare Naturally
Selecting the right essential oils for cannabis skincare can enhance your skincare products, making them more effective and luxurious. By adding lesser-known ingredients like Clary Sage, Myrrh, Black Spruce, Elemi, and Hinoki, you really make your products stand out. You’re not just creating excellent skincare; you’re creating a whole self-care experience. Stay curious, stay creative, and let your formulations tell a story of nature’s most extraordinary healers.
FAQ
What’s the best oil base for homemade massage blends?
There are loads of different combinations you could use, but this blend of meadowfoam seed oil, rice bran oil, marula oil, squalane, and vitamin E really creates a light and nourishing base that’s great for massage oils.
How much essential oil should I use in my massage blend?
For a 99g oil base, add up to 20 to 40 drops of essential oil (about 1% to 2% total). Adjust to your sensitivity and avoid overuse.
Can I use these massage oils on sensitive skin?
The blends are designed to be gentle, but always patch test first and avoid oils known to irritate your skin type.
Are these blends suitable for pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Some essential oils are not safe in pregnancy. Check each oil’s safety, use only approved oils, or consult your doctor or midwife.
How should I store homemade massage oil blends?
Store blends in a tightly closed glass bottle, out of sunlight, and use within 3 to 6 months for best freshness and efficacy.
What’s the shelf life of a DIY massage oil?
If stored well, up to 6 months. Discard if the oil smells off or changes colour.
Can I swap essential oils in these recipes?
Yes, you can replace oils you dislike or are allergic to, but make sure to follow safe dilution rates and check each oil’s safety.
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