A couple of years ago, CBD skincare was a niche topic. Beauty enthusiasts played with the subject here and there, but it was neither significantly researched nor available on shelves.
The term was virtually nonexistent when you look at it on Google Trends. But search queries skyrocketed in 2017, when the straight line turned into a mountain of interest with new blogs, products, and revolutionary findings emerging every day.
CBD skincare market took a quantum leap into being a multimillion dollar industry and is expected to pass the billion dollar cap in next few years. Serums, cleansers, face oils, body lotions, moisturizers, you can no longer find a skin product that doesn’t come in it’s “dank” form.
CBD did not become a beneficial skin care ingredient overnight. But the global legalization of the compound did explode suddenly which in turn inspired more research. With this new information, we’re beginning to get a full picture of what CBD can do for our skin.
About CBD
CBD is short for cannabidiol, and it’s one of more than 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. CBD can be derived from both marijuana and hemp, and both have the same benefits for our skin.
CBD can be both ingested and applied topically depending on the form (more about that below), and its powerful anti-inflammatory properties can tackle a range of skin issues. It is packed with antioxidants and essential acids which further adds up to it steadily becoming a new skin care staple.
CBD oil used in skincare is extracted as powder and is usually mixed with carrier oil like olive, hemp, or coconut. These oils increase its effectiveness and absorption.
The list of purported skin benefits of CBD oil is long and some of them are not rooted in research. Nevertheless, most industry experts and scientists agree on the 5 key benefits we’ll go through in this article.
1. CBD For Acne
Acne is such a widespread issue that never having it kind of makes you an elite. The rest of us were affected in our teens and many also struggle in their adulthood. Though every skin is beautiful skin in my book, acne can harm one’s self-esteem. Not to mention they can cause serious discomfort, itchiness and even pain.
Acne is a regular topic in beauty sections of journals and a must-have portfolio item for skincare researchers. As a result, we now have a plethora of professional and at home treatments to chose from. But many people are turning to natural skin care and don’t want to put a chemical cocktail on their face every morning, in spite of efficiency. Among clean acne solutions CBD is slowly receiving its long overdue credit.
Inflammation is proven guilty of causing most acne conditions, and the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD are well recognized among researchers. Therefore, topical application of CBD oil has a big chance of calming your skin, decreasing redness and with consistent use may prevent further development of acne.
CBD has the potential to combat the other common culprit for acne development-- excess oil. Excessive production of sebum in your skin can clog pores and give birth to bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes. This acne-causing bacteria can be combated by balancing natural oil production in the skin.
We need a more comprehensive study to make this theory solid, but most researchers agree that CBD can help regulate oil production, and hence combat blemishes, reduce redness and make our skin look and feel better.
2. CBD For Aging
While the CBD skin care industry will soon celebrate passing USD 1 billion, the anti aging industry is well over $200 billion - and the growth doesn’t seem to slow down. We spend tons on creams and serums, which often have a shady ingredient list or are just overpriced.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to keep your skin as sleek as it can be at any age. But today, we are more aware of the impact these products have on the environment and clean beauty is steadily becoming a global trend. In turn, we are finally beginning to prioritize natural solutions.
CBD’s antioxidant qualities can help offset sun, pollution and free-radical damage - the three main causes of visible signs of aging, which includes redness, wrinkles, pigmentation and dullness. The Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids found in hemp-derived oil provide hydration and prevent water loss, which helps to further reduce fine lines.
3. CBD For Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an auto-immune condition in which T-cells attack healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply at an abnormal rate. This increases the amount of dead skin cells, which the skin is not able to shed as it normally would. The consequence are patches of abnormal, scaly and painful skin on the face and body.
Current psoriasis treatments are very limited. They include topical solutions, some of which - like steroid creams, could actually harm your body. Therefore, people are constantly searching for better options.
CBD research related to psoriasis is still considered to be in its preliminary phase. However, the current results are quite promising.
CBD affects our endocannabinoid systems, which among many things, regulates pain and the immune system - which includes epidermal cell changes. This means it can help slow down skin cell growth and division.
Applying topical creams and CBD oil can further ease Psoriasis symptoms, as it helps to reduce itching and irritation of rough skin patches. Unlike many other topicals, it is safe to use and doesn’t have side effects.
It’s important to know that CBD is still not considered a stand-alone solution for psoriasis, and you should consult your dermatologist to decide how exactly to implement CBD in your treatment plan.
4. CBD For Eczema
Though not as widespread as acne, some form of eczema affects almost a third of Americans. This includes those who suffer from atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema. The condition usually starts in infancy, and while some outgrow the symptoms, others continue to struggle throughout their adult lives.
Eczema is a frustrating issue. It causes patches of skin to get red, rough and inflamed and extremely itchy. The specific symptoms and affected areas depend on the age and type of the condition.
A permanent cure for Eczema unfortunately hasn’t been found yet. However, products that reduce inflammation and provide hydration can help manage the symptoms.
One of the options which is more and more researched and used for this purpose is CBD.
Whether used topically or ingested, it helps to ease inflammation, pain and itching. You can also use it as your daily moisturizer, as it will help combat dry skin and doesn’t further irritate sensitive patches. Using a natural CBD-infused cleanser is also recommended as a gentler alternative to soap.
Though stress doesn’t cause eczema on its own, it can make the symptoms worse. CBD is well recognized to reduce anxiety and balance mood, so you could consider taking CBD tinctures and tablets to help you stay calm in stressful situations.
5. CBD For Moisturizing
Not many oils and moisturizers are suitable for all skin types - this is where CBD really stands out.
CBD is most commonly recommended for dry skin. Most of us struggle with dry phases, especially in winter. Depending on the severity, this condition can cause flakiness, itchiness, scaling and cracking of the skin.
CBD can help restore cracks and rough patches as it has long-lasting moisturizing qualities. It absorbs quickly, balances oil production and locks in moisture. You won’t feel the need to reapply throughout the day, which reduces the temptation to over moisturize. CBD eye creams and lip balms are also gaining popularity, as they make these target areas plump, soft and nourished.
Since it balances natural oil production, you can also benefit from CBD if you have oily skin. However, it is important to take note of the carrier oil used in the formula and how your skin reacts to it. Coconut oil, for example, can cause breakouts in some individuals.
Being beneficial for both dry and oily skin, CBD oil is a great pick for combination skin. If parts of your skin feel dry, while others (most commonly the T-zone) are greasy, an oil-balancing product can help balance it out. It will soothe dry areas but also removes excess oil.
Finally, CBD products are gentle for the skin and have anti-inflammatory properties, which makes them suitable for sensitive skin types.
How To Take And Purchase CBD For Skin?
CBD can be used for skin by both oral usage and topical application - the combination of both may be best for holistic and long term results.
Ingestion reaches the bloodstream and directly interacts with the endocannabinoid system. Along with treating inflammation, ingestion stabilizes mood, relieves anxiety and combats pain. Topical treatments offer targeted help for inflamed skin, sunburns, acne, dry patches and other skin irritations.
Many manufacturers have begun utilizing hemp for its rejuvenating properties in the form of lotions, salves, balms-- even shampoo and conditioner. Earthly Body, for example, specializes in CBD skincare products that are all natural, environmentally friendly, and free of animal testing.
There are three definitions that you will find on authentic CBD products: isolate, full spectrum and broad spectrum.
As the name implies, CBD isolate contains only CBD without other cannabinoids and cannabis substances. Full spectrum contains CBD, trace amounts of THC and other cannabinoids, but also other cannabis compounds such as antioxidants, essential oils and terpenes.
Broad spectrum is a mix between the two - other cannabis compounds are preserved in the extract, except for THC. Broad spectrum products are generally considered to be the best solution for your skin.
The reason why broad spectrum products are the most effective is something called entourage effect. This is a mechanism by which individual therapeutic effects of cannabinoids are magnified when they interact synergistically.
Other things you should look for when purchasing is the certificate of analysis (COA). This is a document from a third party, accredited laboratory which is batch specific and shows the quantity of cannabinoids in the product.
Though we’re not yet certain about proper dosage in beauty products, a COA does indicate if the CBD brand is legitimate. Regarding the potency, CBD isn’t something you can overdose on so you can safely use high-potency products, in fact, it is recommended to do so.
Finally, ensure the jars are stable, well sealed and not transparent, as too much light and air can impact the efficacy of CBD.
Wrapping Up
CBD is currently all the rage in the skin care industry. And that's not surprising - this non-psychoactive CBD compound can help with a range of issues, including acne, dry skin, aging skin, psoriasis and eczema.
It is suitable for all skin types and the products are getting increasingly regulated for potency and purity. If you’re looking for a natural solution for your self-care regimen, our collection of CBD skincare products can help you get started.
