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!

The Skinny on CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s one of a group of compounds called cannabinoids. Cannabinoids, like CBD, actually serve as skin care for the plant itself. There are glands on the surface of the plant, called trichomes, which secrete cannabinoids to protect the cannabis plant against the elements and insect predators, as well attract pollinators.

While these plant-based cannabinoids, or phytocannabinoids, are great for the cannabis plant, they also have remarkable benefits for animals. All animals have an endocannabinoid system, which brings homeostasis, or balance, to many of the body’s other systems. The body produces its own cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids, which interact with receptors in the body’s other systems and, in doing so, help the body to regulate such functions as sleep, pain, inflammation, mood, memory, and much more.

Phytocannabinoids, such as CBD, act very much the same way. When consumed, the cannabinoids interact with these receptors, which then send messages to the body’s various systems to get working. Different cannabinoids have different specialties, in terms of their effects. CBN, for instance, is a cannabinoid that affects the nervous system in such a way that it relaxes the body for sleep. CBD has broader applications. It supports the body in a broad range of functions, making it sort of a Swiss Army knife as a wellness product.

CBD for Skin Care | Hemp vs. Marijuana

Since we’re throwing around the word “cannabis” here quite a bit, I just wanted to take a moment to differentiate the kind of plant we’re talking about when it comes to CBD skin products. Marijuana is the word we use to describe cannabis plants with large amounts of THC (the cannabinoid that people use to get high). CBD skin products, in general, are produced by the hemp plant, which is cannabis with low, non-intoxicating amounts of THC in it. So, in no way will the CBD skin-care products we are talking about get you high.

CBD for Skin Care | Hemp Oil vs. Hemp Seed Oil

We should also make one more distinction. When we talk about CBD oil, we’re talking about oil derived from the buds, leaves and stalks of the hemp plant. Sometimes referred to as hemp oil, this is different from hemp seed oil, which is somewhat self-explanatory. It’s derived from the seeds of the hemp plant.

One way to tell if you’re getting the right type of oil is to look for terms like full spectrum, broad spectrum and isolate. These refer to oils derived from the hemp plant’s buds, seeds and stems, but with different levels of filtering. If you see one of these terms in the ingredients, you should have legit CBD oil and not hemp seed oil.

None of this is to say that hemp seed oil doesn’t have its own benefits, as well. In fact, the oil derived from hemp seeds is rich in essential amino acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, plus wellness-boosting vitamin E. It does not contain any cannabinoids, though. Still, hemp seed oil has been found to have beneficial effects on skin conditions and anti-aging.

But let’s get back to CBD, skin care and the endocannabinoid system.

Does the Endocannabinoid System Affect Your Skin?

We mentioned the receptors that endocannabinoids trigger in various systems of the body. One group of such receptors are called cutaneous ionotropic cannabinoid receptors. These receptors affect such functions as pain and itch perception, epidermal homeostasis (that is, balance), and the promotion and suppression of dermatitis, which is the inflammation of the skin.

You’re probably starting to connect the dots, right? If the endocannabinoid system helps to regulate various functions of the skin, and cannabinoids (most notably, CBD) stimulate the endocannabinoid system, then it’s easy to deduce that CBD has the potential to be a valuable tool for skin care.

What Is a CBD Topical?

A topical is a product that is rubbed onto a localized area of the body, and sinks into the skin. Unlike CBD edibles or CBD vapes, CBD topicals are absorbed by the skin itself, and not absorbed into the bloodstream. You can usually experience the effects of a CBD topical fairly quickly, after just a few minutes. And the effects can last up to six hours. Of course, there are variable factors at play, as well, including your own physiology. We’re all different and react to various chemicals differently. So, if you’re going to experiment with CBD for skin, try it out on a small patch of your affected area and see how you react. Then, add more, if necessary. The nice thing about a CBD topical is that you can’t really overdo it by reapplying a CBD cream or CBD balm. There are no real adverse side effects to worry about on CBD topicals, unless you’re the rare person who is allergic. But again, try a small patch first to make sure everything is okay.

Types of CBD Skin Care Products

Now that we know the science behind using CBD for skin care, let’s take a look at some of the different CBD skin products that are available.

CBD Creams

Water-based creams enter the pores and penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, down to the tissue below. This is great for a product like CBD Muscle and Joint Cream: Cooling Formula, that gives relief for aches and pains, but is not necessarily a skin-care product.

CBD Balms

CBD balms, on the other hand, are denser and remain more on the surface of the skin. This gives the CBD a chance to work harder on the upper layers of skin. CBD Calming and Moisturizing Balm Stick not only makes use of broad spectrum CBD, but also moisturizing shea butter and Roman chamomile oil, as well as soothing botanicals, like lavender, tea tree and vetiver oils — plus, the aforementioned hemp seed oil. With all of these ingredients working together, the CBD balm renews and rejuvenates the skin, soothing irritation and inflammation as it does so.

CBD Masks

CBD masks are nice because they give you a bit of that “spa day” feel. I always feel a little pampered with a nice mask. CBD face masks can combine organic CBD with other active ingredients, each with its own effects for the skin: rose for toning and moisturizing, charcoal for purifying and brightening, aloe vera for soothing and tightening, lavender for relaxing and soothing, and cucumber for hydrating and tightening. With a CBD face mask, your skin can feel softer and healthier in as little as 10 minutes.

Many of the same ingredients that make CBD balms and face masks work so well on the skin can do wonders on the skin of the feet. This area is often over stressed and worn down. A good CBD foot mask can rejuvenate achy feet and revitalize the skin. With broad spectrum CBD oil and active botanicals, it can soften your feet and have them feeling fresh and new.

CBD Bath Bombs

Bath bombs allow you to immerse your entire body in wellness-boosting CBD, plus a host of essential oils and other active ingredients, like Hawaiian black salt. While it will certainly do wonders for your muscles and joints (not to mention relaxing your mental state), a CBD bath bomb can also be just the thing to pamper the skin over your entire body.

Choosing the Right CBD Skin Care Product

Whatever CBD product you choose, there’s one important factor you should always keep in mind, and that’s quality. There are countless cheaply made CBD skin-care products on the market, with insufficient or impure active ingredients, packed with all sorts of toxins. It’s important to find a company that sells only CBD derived from organic hemp, processed without harmful solvents, and complemented with quality ingredients. Make sure to look for third-party lab reports, which should be available for any CBD product sold by a reputable company. This report will tell you the purity and potency of your product, and can warn you away from substandard CBD products, as well. You can also check customer reviews to see what other people are saying about a skin-care product. It’s your skin, you want to make sure that you’re only feeding it ingredients of the highest quality.

CBD and Skin Care

Research is still in the early stages for CBD and its potential uses as a skin-care product. But there are a lot of exciting products available, and it’s worth having a look. I hope that this guide will help you on your journey.

Want to pamper your skin? Try a CBD Face Mask!