While medical marijuana and CBD are traditionally thought of as compounds to take internally, new promise has come to life – what they, specifically CBD, may be able to do for skin conditions, especially when applied topically.
At one point or another, we’ve all suffered from some sort of skin condition. Beyond social stigmas and challenges, skin conditions can be quite uncomfortable and are often associated with lower levels of self-esteem, and, in severe cases, depression. (1)
Thankfully, many options exist – from oils to topical creams, oral medications to laser treatments, and more. But there’s one potential product that has people excited. CBD, a natural compound nearly free of negative side effects, could be highly effective in treating acne and other common skin conditions.
Jeanette Jacknin, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cannabinoids for skincare and treatment (how cool!) shared in the Strategist the way CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, helps the skin look more “radiant and youthful”, and slows down the signs of aging. Its anti-inflammatory interactions with the body can help decrease the effects of acne, eczema, and psoriasis. (2)
Here’s how.
CBD Oil for Acne
CBD oils interact with the receptors in our body that communicate with the nervous system to produce different results. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD oil works to reduce the inflammation that is caused by acne.
According to some studies, CBD may help lower the production of the specific sebum that is known to cause acne, reducing its visible effects. Similarly, CBD oil may inhibit overactive oil production which is a key cause of acne. (3)
Interestingly, CBD only targets problem-causing cells so, unlike prescription medications that can cause dry or irritated skin, the healthy cells will be left alone.
For acne, CBD is commonly used as a topical cream; however, a daily supplement is also suitable, especially if there are deeper inflammation issues.
CBD Oil for Anti-Aging
As our bodies age, it’s important to take care of the biggest organ we have – our skin. Walk down the skincare aisle at any drugstore and you’re guaranteed to see a plethora of anti-aging creams and wrinkle-reducing lotions. However, the item you need to keep your skin hydrated and healthy may be more multipurpose than you think. CBD oil has been shown to be more potent than ascorbic acid, leading to major promise in the anti-aging department. (4)
Hemp seed, one of the sources of CBD, is loaded with Omega 3 and Omega 6, two fatty acids which increase the production of collagen in the skin. This process keeps the skin moisturized by decreasing the amount of water lost through the top layer of the skin.
CBD has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. When inflammation exists anywhere in the body, especially in skin glands, the ability to properly flush, hydrate, and cleanse are all hindered, leading to the premature aging of the skin. Once again, CBD may be a simple solution to an otherwise complex problem. (5)
In addition to the antioxidants, fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD is gentle to use and has little-to-no side effects!
CBD Oil for Psoriasis and Eczema
Psoriasis, an autoimmune disease which causes rapid skin cell production and inflammation, is known for being painful, itchy, and downright miserable in some cases. Similarly, eczema encompasses a range of skin conditions with symptoms of dry and itchy skin. Inflammation can occur anywhere on the body and scratching the affected area makes the skin raw, swollen, and more sensitive.
CBD oil to the rescue!
As we’ve learned, CBD is a natural anti-inflammatory which means that using it as a topical cream on areas with psoriasis or eczema could calm the skin and ease irritation – ultimately reducing the need to itch. The properties in CBD oil alert immune cells to slow down skin cell production and reduce inflammation levels.
Treating Other Skin Conditions with CBD
We’ve talked about acne, aging, eczema, and psoriasis but the benefits of CBD oil for the skin go far beyond those four conditions.
Clogged pores and blackheads are bound to happen and medication can be harsh on our bodies. Applying a CBD cream to the blemish will noticeably decrease the appearance.
Similarly, it can help with itchy skin – be it from dry skin or bug bites! The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil calm your skin and immune system.
Some skin conditions cause bumps and redness on the face. These flare-ups can only be managed due to the hereditary nature. However, CBD-based soaps or other topicals have been found to provide the best relief for outbreaks.
When used on a regular basis, CBD-infused topicals can provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to retain moisture and protect against the sun. For skin conditions, it’s better to use CBD as a cream rather than inhaling cannabis smoke.
At the core of these extraordinary effects is CBD’s ability to lower inflammation throughout the body. Acne and many other skin conditions are worsened by inflammation, much like chronic pain, which often leads to the overproduction of the chemicals and other hormones that cause visible effects.
Because traditional acne treatments are accompanied by various side effects, ranging from dry skin and irritation to more serious complications like dizziness and even high blood pressure (when non-traditional treatments like birth control pills are used), finding a more natural remedy is a top priority for patients and researchers alike. (6)
Glowing reviews for an oil that could help your skin glow? Why not give it a try?
