Have you noticed that it's becoming more and more common for beauty brands to offer products infused with cannabis-derived CBD? Is this just a passing fad in the skincare industry, or can using CBD skin creams and serums actually improve your complexion? And what about those of us with sensitive skin? Is it safe to use skincare products with CBD as the active ingredient if you’re struggling with sensitive skin?
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, usually abbreviated to CBD, belongs to a class of compounds known as cannabinoids—chemical structures found in the cannabis plant that interact with the endocannabinoid system when consumed by humans. CBD and THC are the two most well-known and most commonly found cannabinoids out there, but the plant can surprisingly produce over 100 different cannabinoids.
Just because CBD comes from weed doesn’t mean that it gets you high. A large part of the CBD’s appeal is that it’s non-intoxicating. This allows users to glean some of the medicinal and curative benefits of cannabis without having to worry about getting stoned.
As of 2018, CBD derived from hemp is federally legal, which means that even in states without recreational marijuana markets, consumers can still legally purchase CBD products.
Benefits Of Using CBD In My Skincare Routine
Currently, the Food and Drug Administration hasn’t approved any CBD product for medicinal or therapeutic use aside from the pharmaceutical-grade CBD Epidiolex, which is used to treat specific seizure disorders. According to the FDA, there haven’t been an adequate amount of clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of CBD as a medicinal agent. However, the research that we do have strongly indicates that CBD could have several different types of therapeutic applications, including pain and anxiety management.
Another potential benefit of CBD has to do with our largest organ—our skin. According to some research, CBD can help improve skin in a few major ways.
When CBD is applied to the skin topically, like with a skin serum or balm, the cannabinoid won’t penetrate the epidermis enough to reach the bloodstream. However, there are endocannabinoid receptors located throughout our skin that could be activated by a CBD skin cream.
Studies suggest that activating these receptors could provide an anti-inflammatory benefit, which could benefit those suffering from skin conditions like eczema. In addition to the anti-inflammatory properties, there is evidence that CBD can inhibit the natural production of sebum—an oily secretion naturally produced by our bodies that can lead to acne. Plus, CBD has been shown to possess antioxidant qualities, which might help to prevent the appearance of aging and the formation of wrinkles.
Can I Still Use CBD Skin Products If I Have Sensitive Skin?
Those of us with sensitive skin need to be extra careful about what kind of ingredients go into our skincare products. Excessive fragrance or strong acidic ingredients can often lead to irritation, but what about CBD? Are CBD products fine to use on sensitive skin?
Generally speaking, CBD is safe to use even with sensitive skin. According to dermatologist Dr. Tina Alster, “Topical CBD is safe and works effectively for all skin types. The products are easy to administer. Sufferers of serious medical skin conditions and those who are seeking innovative skincare options can benefit from topical CBD use.”
If you are currently seeing a dermatologist, be sure to check with them before beginning a CBD regimen, as it could potentially interfere with your current treatment.
Can CBD Products Be Used To Cure My Sensitive Skin?
While CBD isn’t a miracle drug that will completely cure the user of their sensitive skin, applying a CBD topical could help soothe irritation. CBD-infused skincare products could also help prevent dryness and itching, a common complaint from those of us with sensitive skin.
When looking for the best CBD product for your sensitive skin, take note of the product’s other ingredients. Avoid heavily fragranced products or products that contain harsh chemicals that can cause irritation. Organic and hypoallergenic CBD products are widely available and may be the best for those suffering from sensitive skin.
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