Interest in cosmetic products with industrial hemp extracts as active ingredients for cosmetic purposes is increasing Nowadays, such products can be found on the Slovenian market in drugstores, stores specialized in the sale of herbal medicines and medical devices, cosmetics shops, supermarkets or specialized health food stores as well as online. The data we collected reveals the diversity of industrial hemp extracts in cosmetic products available on the market. Industrial hemp extracts are used in various cosmetic products for body care, facial care, hair care, and sun protection. Our study involved 94 cosmetic products, and among them body care products represent the largest share of extracts, that is 77 % of all products, followed by facial care products with 20 %. We explored the forms in which they are found. The largest share is constituted by creams (30 %), ointments (20 %), and skin cleansing products (19 %). Hemp oil and cannabidiol extract are the most researched extracts. Hemp oil is the most used extract in cosmetic products as it is present in 83 % of all products. Other most used extracts include hemp extract and cannabidiol. Hemp oil and cannabidiol have been the most studied extracts, while others have been studied less. Therefore, the lack of information about their effects and safety for dermal use could also represent a matter of concern. Despite the growing number of cosmetic products containing hemp extracts, questions arise about their safety and proper market regulation. There are many questions in terms of production control, product and extract distribution, and the quality of products. In some cosmetic products, we detected extracts derived from industrial hemp flowers; however, the relevant legislation allows the use of ingredients from different parts of the plant except for flowers or buds. In some products, we detected the presence of hemp flower extracts, nevertheless, the manufacturers complied with the guidelines and adjusted the product composition. Some manufacturers replaced hemp flower extract with hemp leaf extract which indicates the importance of regulation in the field of monitoring and control of the cosmetic products ingredients. It will take more time to accomplish proper regulation of the entire market. So far, Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety in the European Union has not carried out enough research to allow proper assessment of the safety of cannabidiol use.
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