What do skincare, makeup, and cereal have in common? You can now buy them all infused with CBD to some considerable degree. Canadian CBD oil brans blew up early this year and took everyone by surprise. Major blogs and health gurus are talking non-stop about it, and now, the skincare world is being taken up in the storm too!
If you are unsure about CBD’s role in skincare, you need to know what exactly it is first. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is an active chemical compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. If you thought the name sounds a little bit familiar, then you are most probably correct. Cannabis sativa, in its dry state, gives what you may commonly know as cannabis, weed, or marijuana.
So, if it’s like weed, why is everyone suddenly crazy about it and putting it everywhere? Despite its brow-raising origin, CBD is a far less psychoactive version of cannabis, meaning it does not alter the state of mind when used or get you “high.’’ The naturally occurring substance can even be found in oils and edibles to ease anxiety and give a sense of relaxation and calmness.
CBD is only one of two major components in the cannabis plant alongside THC. While THC is the common psychoactive marijuana that is widely known, CBD takes on a much more wholesome path. The oil is highly appraised for mood improvement, anti-inflammatory, and medical benefits.
Why is CBD So Popular in the Beauty Industry?
In the video below, Dr. Anthony Young will talk about why and how CBD became so popular in the skincare industry:
Since its unexpected rise to popularity in late 2019 and early 2020, many studies on CBD have thoroughly investigated the compound’s rumored benefits to the physical and mental wellbeing of users. While its cousin, THC (weed), is slowly becoming accepted as a medicinal alternative in some states, CBD is convincing many people in the beauty industry that its relaxing properties are worth exploring further.
The FDA has approved Epidolex, a pure extract of CBD, as a treatment alternative for two rare forms of epilepsy. A 2020 study also claimed that CBD plays a vital role in improving gastrointestinal functions and soothing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and allergies. With so many promised benefits, all industries are vying to bite into this trend as quickly as possible – especially the skincare industry.
How Does CBD Work in Skincare?
CBD in skincare is an entirely interesting study. Skin experts claim that skin conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging are owed to inflammation and free radical damage of the skin’s epidermis. The body contains the endocannabinoid system, which is a complex system that balances many major functions of the skin.
This system plays a vital role in pigmentation, oil production, and many other skin functions. As such, using CBD theoretically sounds like a great help to introduce to the endocannabinoid system. Here are some potential benefits of CBD in skincare products:
CBD for Eczema
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, red, and itchy patches/bumps on the skin. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory potential, CBD oil can be used to treat and soothe conditions like eczema and psoriasis. These conditions are typically treated with topical corticosteroids that tend to have side effects on thinner skin, such as the skin around the eyes, the armpit area, and the groin.
CBD for Acne
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties once again shine bright. The compound is also being praised for having potent antimicrobial properties as well as reducing oil production. These are all factors that mix well for a theoretical anti-acne approach.
CBD for Aging and Wrinkles
CBD boasts of some pretty impressive antioxidant properties. These contribute greatly towards anti-aging products, and in conjunction with anti-inflammatory properties, CBD may help the appearance of aging in the skin. Some experts also claim that CBD helps improve skin elasticity and helps you relax and sleep better.
CBD for Sensitive skin
The significant soothing and skin-calming effects of CBD make the perfect friend for sensitive skin that is easily agitated by the elements and other factors. CBD’s soothing mechanism can be a great tool in keeping your skin in check.
Where Can You Find CBD?
CBD is almost everywhere today! You can find it in face serums, lotions, face/body scrubs, and face moisturizers. You can also find it in deodorant, beard balms, face masks, soothing balms, and bath bombs/soaks. The list continues to grow!
Are CBD Skin Care Products Safe for Your Skin?
With all the available information on CBD, nothing yet suggests that using it on your skin could cause any damage. Applying such a new and trendy product to your skin does require a lot of caution,7 so do not forget to patch-test. Stop using such products if you experience skin irritation or reaction after use. Consult a dermatologist if you need some more help.