How does CBD contribute to the health of your skin?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound extracted from the cannabis plant. Some evidence suggests that CBD oil may be beneficial for skin health and has uses for many different skin conditions.
CBD is a chemical compound present in the cannabis plant. Manufacturers can combine CBD-rich hemp extract with a so-called carrier oil, such as hemp or coconut oil, to create CBD drops (CBD oil). People can buy not only CBD oil itself, but also a range of cosmetic products that contain CBD oil and use them in their skin care.
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can be useful in the treatment of many skin conditions, including acne, eczema and dandruff. In this article, we will discuss what skin ailments CBD oil can be useful for and how to use it properly.
What is CBD oil?
CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Another important cannabinoid is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the compound responsible for 'high', the state that people most often associate with cannabis. CBD alone does not make a person feel high. Different varieties of cannabis plants contain different amounts of cannabinoids. So-called technical hemp plants contain higher amounts of CBD and almost no THC, which is why most CBD oils come from technical hemp.
Manufacturers typically extract CBD from the plant using heat and mix it with a carrier oil to which the CBD is bound to produce CBD oil. Alternatively, they use alcohol - in which case we're talking about a CBD tincture. CBD oil comes in many different concentrations and people can use it in many different ways. For example, they can apply it directly to their skin, put a drop under their tongue, or add it to creams or lotions.
The human body contains a complex network of neurotransmitters and cannabinoid receptors known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Research suggests that cannabinoids and the ECS play an essential role in many bodily processes and that the skin contains cannabinoid receptors.
Is CBD good for the skin and how does it affect the skin?
Research suggests that CBD oil may be beneficial in treating a number of different skin conditions. These may include:
CBD and acne
Acne is the most common skin disease in humans. CBD contains many compounds that reduce oiliness, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and can thus work together to help improve the skin condition of acne.
A 2014 study examined the effects of CBD on human sebocytes, the cells that make sebum, a waxy, oily substance produced by the skin. While sebum helps protect our skin, excessive amounts of it can also lead to acne. A study suggests that CBD may prevent sebocytes from producing too much sebum.
A 2016 review highlights the potential antibacterial and antifungal properties of cannabis. This could help prevent acne arising due to infections on the skin. Another study, this one from 2019 suggests that CBD may also be beneficial in treating the appearance of acne scars.
Dryness and itching
A 2019 study reports that CBD may be helpful in treating some common symptoms of skin conditions such as dryness and itching. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may be particularly useful in reducing potential triggers of eczema, dermatitis and dandruff.
Because CBD oil can help soothe skin and reduce the incidence of irritation, it may be useful for people with sensitive skin.
CBD oil and its effect on aging and wrinkles
A 2017 study highlights the antioxidant properties of CBD. Oxidative stress may contribute to the aging process. Therefore, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may help prevent the signs of skin aging.</p
CBD drops and infections
Because the cannabis plant may have antibacterial and antifungal properties, it may be useful in treating skin infections.</p
Possible risks and side effects
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), people generally tolerate CBD well. However, common side effects of CBD, which may vary by dose, may include:
- dry mouth
- sleepiness
- fatigue
- borrow
- changes in appetite and weight
It should also be noted that CBD may interact with certain medications, so it is important that people currently taking prescription medications consult their physician before taking any CBD products.
How to use CBD
For any CBD product, it is important to follow the instructions on the label to determine how often to use the product, how much to use, and how to apply it. CBD oil and cosmetic products containing CBD oil can be applied directly to the skin. When taking CBD oil orally, simply drip a few drops under the tongue and hold it under the tongue for at least 1 minute before swallowing to allow it to be absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes.
Dosing varies depending on a person's body weight and the strength of the CBD oil. People new to CBD should start with the lowest dose possible. Once they see how their body responds to CBD, they can gradually increase the dose.
How do you choose the best CBD oil?
When choosing a CBD oil or other CBD-infused product, we recommend that you choose from products that:
- contain no more than 1% THC
- have proof of third-party testing
- have been tested for pesticides, heavy metals, fungi and microbes
- passed efficacy and product safety testing
- come from a company that provides Certificates of Analysis (COA) for all of its products
In addition, it is also worth considering:
- the effectiveness of CBD
- price
- testimonials of the seller and manufacturer
- customer reviews
Are CBD products legal?
Hemp products containing 1% THC or less have been legalised in the Czech Republic since the beginning of 2022. However, the same situation does not apply in all states. Some countries require users of CBD to have a doctor's prescription, while others ban the sale of hemp products altogether. When travelling abroad, we recommend checking the laws in all countries you will be passing through.
Alternative natural skin care products
Other natural skin care products that may benefit skin health or alleviate symptoms of skin conditions include:
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is an excellent moisturizer and has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound healing properties. Studies from 2014 and 2017 suggest that aloe vera can relieve symptoms of both acne and psoriasis.
Honey
A 2012 review states that honey has moisturizing, healing and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2016 summary suggests that it may also boost the immune system, while a 2017 summary states that honey can heal burns and wounds.<
Coconut oil
An article from 2016 explains that coconut oil is an effective treatment for dry skin because it can significantly improve skin hydration. A 2019 study also states that coconut oil can protect the skin by fighting inflammation and improving skin barrier health.
Tea tree oil
A 2013 review lists the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and wound-healing properties of tea tree oil. A 2015 review states that tea tree oil is an effective acne treatment that reduces breakouts in people with mild to moderate acne.
Summary
Research suggests that CBD oil may have uses as a treatment for a number of skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis and dandruff. This is due to its potential anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
CBD oil can be applied directly to the skin, consumed or used in cosmetic products such as creams or lotions that contain CBD oil.
Disclaimer
Every brand has a responsibility to its customers. Hemnia is dedicated to natural remedies and a harmonious lifestyle. We love to write about these things and share our good experiences. In addition to verified quality and correct understandable descriptions for our products, we have a duty to let you know what we can and cannot be responsible for. The goal is your safety and we fully respect that.
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Short and simple:
1. Hemnia does not want to, nor can it, replace the expert care of your doctor.
2. Hemnia products are not drugs (aka medicines), so please do not treat them as such.
3. Hemnia offers cannabis products, but do not look for any narcotic or psychotropic substances. We do not offer or recommend them.
Read the full text of the Disclaimer here.