Our skin provides a hardy and protective covering for our bodies. It can be supple and flexible, yet durable and resilient. There’s no overstating just how important our skin is to our overall wellness. But skin can also suffer from conditions that wear away at its health. Dryness, acne, and wrinkling are all common skin issues we eventually have to deal with.
Recently, CBD has become a popular ingredient in skin-care products, due to its anti-inflammatory properties and other potential benefits stemming from its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Research on the subject is relatively recent, and we’re learning new things every day on the topic of CBD and skin health.
But the question remains: Can CBD help with common skin conditions? Let’s explore the world of CBD and skin health.
CBD, the Endocannabinoid System, and Skin Health
The endocannabinoid system is a system common to all vertebrates. The ECS helps to regulate several of the body’s most crucial functions, including sleep, mood, memory, pain, inflammation, stress, appetite, and many others. It does so through neurotransmitters called endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids bind to the body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, sending signals as it does so to systems throughout the body to help them maintain homeostasis, or balance.
One group of such receptors these endocannabinoids trigger are called cutaneous ionotropic cannabinoid receptors. These receptors affect such functions as pain and itch perception, epidermal homeostasis, and the promotion and suppression of dermatitis, which is the inflammation of the skin. By helping to maintain balance in these functions, these endocannabinoids go a long way toward preserving the health of the skin.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of a group of cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant. Plant-based cannabinoids, or phytocannabinoids, actually protect the surface of the plant from the elements, as well as insect pests. They also attract pollinators, which helps to perpetuate the species. Strangely enough, CBD and its fellow phytocannabinoids have a similar effect to endocannabinoids, when introduced into the body. They, too, signal to receptors in the nervous system and other systems to maintain homeostasis. As it turns out, that includes the aforementioned cutaneous ionotropic cannabinoid receptors. This is what makes the potential of CBD in skin-care products so intriguing.
CBD vs. THC
CBD is one of two major cannabinoids — that is, cannabinoids that exist in high quantities in the cannabis plant. The other major cannabinoid is THC, which is commonly known for being the cannabinoid that gets you high. Because CBD products use CBD derived from a low-THC version of the cannabis plant, called the hemp plant, they cannot get you high. In fact, a majority of CBDfx’s products are made from broad spectrum CBD oil, which is oil that has undergone an extra filtering process to remove even the tiny traces of THC that exist in the hemp plant. But even if you get a full spectrum product, which makes use of all of the hemp plant’s oil, the amount of THC is still so low (less than 0.3%) that it is non-intoxicating.
The Use of CBD for Skin Conditions
There has been a great deal of research in recent years on how CBD can be used for skin conditions. It should be noted that the FDA has not yet approved the use of CBD for medical applications, so nothing that we say here should be construed as a medical recommendation — because we simply aren’t allowed to make such claims. However, I would like to show you some of these studies, so that you can make an informed decision on your own (or in consultation with your licensed dermatologist).
CBD for Acne
Studies have concluded that CBD can be helpful in preventing and lessening the effects of acne. Research suggests that it does so by regulating the body’s production of sebum, the oily substance generated by the skin. Overproduction of sebum can lead to clogged pores and result in acne. By maintaining homeostasis (balance), overproduction of sebum can be prevented or, at least, minimized. This same study revealed that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties prevent cytokines (cell-signalling proteins that can trigger acne) from activating, helping to reduce future breakouts, as well.
A CBD Charcoal Face Mask can be particularly useful in delivering organic CBD to an area affected by acne, as well as cleansing charcoal.
CBD for Irritation, Dryness and Itching
A separate study concluded that CBD can potentially be useful in the treatment of irritation, dryness, and itching in the skin. As an anti-inflammatory, CBD can potentially be used to reduce the triggers of dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. This could be particularly useful for people with sensitive skin, prone to constant irritation and inflammation.
A CBD Calming and Moisturizing Balm Stick can be particularly useful in this regard in areas other than the face (where you may want to stick with a face mask). This handy balm stick delivers broad spectrum CBD, combined with moisturizing shea butter and Roman chamomile oil, plus soothing botanicals, like lavender, tea tree and vetiver oils, and hemp seed oil.
Hemp seed oil is different from CBD oil, which is rendered from the buds, leaves and stems of the hemp plant. Hemp seed oil doesn’t contain cannabinoids, like CBD, but it does have a host of other properties that are beneficial for the skin.
CBD for Aging and Wrinkling Skin
One study found that CBD’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties helped to combat oxidative stress, which can make the skin look older and more wrinkled. This certainly calls to mind the potential benefits of CBD Face Masks, which evenly distribute 50mg of organic, broad spectrum CBD (plus other skin nutrients, like aloe vera or cucumber) across the face.
CBD for Infection
Research has shown that CBD may have antifungal and antibacterial properties. This may prove useful in treating some minor infections. Nevertheless, you should still consult your physician if you believe you have a skin infection.
CBD and Skin Health
As you’ve seen, research is revealing a great deal of potential for CBD in dealing with many common skin conditions. There’s still a great deal of work to be done, but it is promising. I encourage you to read up on this topic and check in here from time to time, as well, as we post helpful articles about CBD and skin health. It’s important to stay informed. You want to have healthy skin. It’s good for your self-confidence and your overall wellness!
Want to treat yourself to full-body CBD immersion? Try our CBD Bath Bombs!
