A face cleanser earns the label “marijuana-infused” when it contains ingredients derived specifically from the cannabis plant—particularly varieties legally classified as marijuana rather than hemp. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp refers to cannabis and its derivatives that contain no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. Any plant or extract above that threshold is considered marijuana, which remains federally controlled. Although the terms are often used interchangeably in marketing, there is a scientific and regulatory distinction that affects how products can be labeled and sold.
When formulating a marijuana-infused cleanser, brands typically include one or more cannabis-derived ingredients such as Cannabidiol (CBD), Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Cannabis Sativa Leaf Extract, or terpene isolates. These components are recognized by the International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient (INCI) system, which provides standardized ingredient names for cosmetics. Consumers looking to verify whether a product truly contains marijuana derivatives should review the ingredient list for these INCI terms rather than rely on vague front-label claims like “marijuana complex” or “infused with cannabis.”
It’s important to note that hemp seed oil alone does not make a cleanser marijuana-infused. Hemp seeds themselves do not naturally contain cannabinoids such as CBD or THC. Instead, they provide nutritional value through fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. If a cleanser lists only “Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil” on its ingredient panel without other cannabis extracts, it is not considered cannabinoid-infused—it is simply made with a plant-based oil similar to sunflower or jojoba.
Proper labeling is another defining factor. In the United States, cosmetics must follow strict FDA labeling regulations that require the product’s identity, net quantity, manufacturer details, and an ingredient declaration in descending order of predominance. A legitimate marijuana-infused cleanser should list the specific cannabis-derived ingredients, such as Cannabidiol or Cannabis Sativa Leaf Extract, on the back panel. Products that feature flashy cannabis branding without corresponding INCI listings may be using the term “marijuana-infused” for marketing rather than formulation accuracy.
From a regulatory perspective, marijuana-infused skincare remains under careful oversight. The FDA has not established formal pathways for CBD or other cannabinoids in cosmetics, and brands are prohibited from making drug-like claims about treating or curing skin conditions unless the product is approved as a drug. The Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA) has also strengthened requirements for cosmetic registration, labeling, and safety substantiation, further emphasizing transparency in cannabis-based formulations.
Legality also varies by state. While hemp-derived cosmetics are generally allowed under federal law, marijuana-infused products containing higher THC levels are subject to state-specific regulations and cannot be legally sold or shipped nationwide. Consumers should always review local laws before purchasing or traveling with such products.
In essence, a face cleanser can only be described as “marijuana-infused” when it includes active cannabis-derived compounds—such as CBD, THC, or Cannabis Sativa extracts—and complies with cosmetic labeling and safety standards. Reading the ingredient list remains the most reliable way to confirm whether a product genuinely contains marijuana-based actives or simply uses hemp seed oil for appeal.