The skincare industry is constantly evolving with new ingredients and formulations aimed at addressing common skin concerns like acne, aging, dryness, and inflammation. One ingredient that has been making major waves in skincare lately is CBD. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the cannabis sativa plant. It has recently found its way into a variety of skincare products thanks to its powerful therapeutic benefits for skin.

With both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, CBD can help reduce breakouts, soothe sensitive skin, combat signs of aging, hydrate dry skin, and more. CBD is incredibly versatile, making it a potential game-changing addition to skincare routines. Read on to learn more about how CBD can transform your skin.

Brief history of CBD in skincare

The cannabis plant contains over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. One of these is cannabidiol, or CBD, which has recently exploded in popularity for its therapeutic effects. While used for centuries as a natural remedy, CBD’s inclusion in skincare products is relatively new. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD on the federal level, paving the way for CBD to make its way into topicals.

Since then, CBD has taken the skincare industry by storm. CBD is now found in a wide variety of skincare and cosmetic products, from facial creams to body lotions. Its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it appealing for addressing various skin concerns.

Benefits of CBD for skin

There are several key ways that CBD can improve skin health and appearance:

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is at the root of many common skin issues. CBD has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce symptoms associated with inflammatory skin conditions.

Reduces acne

Acne is an inflammatory condition that causes red, painful bumps on the skin. Research shows CBD oil can reduce the production of sebum, regulate oil balance, and prevent inflammation, thereby improving acne.

Soothes skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis

CBD is able to lower inflammation and curb itching and discomfort associated with eczema, psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions. Applying a topical CBD skin care product can calm flare-ups and reduce redness and skin sensitivity.

Antioxidant Effects

CBD exhibits powerful antioxidant activity. Antioxidants help counteract the damaging effects of free radicals and environmental stressors on the skin.

Protects against free radicals

Free radicals can accelerate signs of aging. CBD neutralizes these compounds and serves as a protective antioxidant for the skin.

Slows signs of aging

By fighting free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, CBD can inhibit premature aging of the skin. CBD skincare may help smooth fine lines and give skin a more youthful, vibrant glow.

Moisturizing Qualities

Dry, lackluster skin can make you look older. CBD delivers essential hydration to nourish the skin and prevent excessive dryness.

Hydrates dry skin

CBD is rich in essential fatty acids like omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9, which help replenish and reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier. CBD helps skin maintain proper hydration.

Reduces appearance of fine lines

Dehydrated skin can accentuate the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The moisturizing properties of CBD help plump the skin to smooth the appearance of fine lines.

Potential Side Effects

While CBD is generally well tolerated, there are some potential side effects to consider:

Drug interactions

CBD can interact with certain medications like blood thinners and immunosuppressants. Talk to your doctor before using CBD skincare.

Varied dosing

There are no standard CBD doses as everyone absorbs CBD differently. There’s no fixed or pre-determined amount of CBD needed to achieve skincare benefits. Start low and gradually increase dosage to determine the right dosage for you.

CBD shows immense potential for addressing an array of skin concerns thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and moisturizing properties. More research is still needed, but many consumers are already jumping on the CBD skincare bandwagon hoping to reveal healthier, more youthful-looking skin. While not a cure-all, CBD could be a useful addition to your skincare regimen.

FAQs About CBD in Skincare

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about CBD skincare:

Is CBD legal?

Yes, CBD derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC is legal on the federal level thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. Just double-check your own state laws.

How should I use CBD skincare?

Look for instructions on packaging. Many CBD topicals can be used 1-2 times daily as you would regular skincare. Perform a patch test before heavy use.

What results can I expect to see?

It depends on your skin issues. Those with inflammation/acne may see faster reduction in flare-ups. Anti-aging effects will take more time. Manage expectations.

Are there risks associated with CBD skincare?

Some potential but minor risks include irritating sensitive skin, drug interactions, and lack of dosing data. Talk to your dermatologist if concerned.

What types of products contain CBD?

There’s a huge range – CBD oils, balms, creams, serums, cleansers, and more. Both cannabis and hemp-derived CBD can be used.