Cannabis-derived oils are showing up in everything from shampoos to salon color masks, but they are not all the same. Understanding the difference between cannabis oil, CBD oil and hemp seed oil helps consumers choose products that truly support hair health and color-treated strands.

Cannabis oil is a broad term often used for full-spectrum extracts made from the flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. These extracts may contain multiple cannabinoids (like THC, CBD and others) plus terpenes and fatty acids. In hair care, cannabis oil is typically used in very low concentrations within rinsed-out products, because high levels of THC are regulated and not necessary for cosmetic benefits. The main potential advantages come from its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help calm an irritated scalp and support the overall environment where hair grows. Early research suggests cannabinoids can interact with skin and hair follicles through the endocannabinoid system, although cosmetic-grade formulations for hair are still being actively studied.

CBD oil is usually produced by extracting cannabidiol from hemp (a low-THC form of Cannabis sativa) and diluting it in a carrier oil such as MCT or hemp seed oil. Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating. For hair and scalp, CBD oil offers three key attributes that are relevant to color-treated hair:

• It provides omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from the carrier oil, which help with softness and manageability.
• It has documented antioxidant activity, which may help neutralize free radicals generated during chemical color processes and environmental exposure.
• It shows anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the skin barrier in early studies, potentially benefiting dry, tight or itchy scalps often reported after frequent salon services.

However, CBD oil does not “lock in” color on its own. Instead, it supports scalp comfort and overall hair condition, which can help color look shinier and last longer when combined with sulfate-free, pH-balanced formulations.

Hemp seed oil is pressed from hemp seeds and naturally contains little to no cannabinoids such as CBD or THC. Its value lies in its lipid profile: hemp seed oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), as well as gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). These lipids help improve softness, reduce surface roughness and enhance shine by forming a light conditioning layer around the hair shaft.

For color-treated hair, this surface conditioning is important. When cuticles lie flatter and the hair fiber is better hydrated, artificial pigments are less likely to leach out quickly with every wash. Many salon brands therefore use hemp seed oil in masks, leave-ins and bond-supporting treatments to help maintain smoothness after lightening or permanent color services.

From a practical standpoint, the main differences for consumers are:

• Cannabis oil: full-spectrum plant extract; positioned for “entourage” benefits and scalp comfort; more tightly regulated.
• CBD oil: targeted non-intoxicating cannabinoid; marketed for soothing, antioxidant support and overall hair/scalp wellness.
• Hemp seed oil: cannabinoid-free lipid booster; especially useful for shine, softness and helping color-treated hair feel less dry.

Shoppers should always review ingredient lists and look for clear labeling of “cannabis sativa seed oil” (hemp seed), “cannabidiol (CBD)” or “cannabis sativa extract,” along with third-party testing where cannabinoids are promoted. When paired with gentle cleansing and color-safe formulations, each of these oils can play a distinct role in helping salon color look vibrant and hair feel healthier over time.