CBD and Skincare

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant. Unlike its counterpart tetrahydrocannabinol, THC, it won’t get you high and it’s packed with some pretty impressive health and skincare benefits. CBD interacts with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system which plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis (balance) in the body. This remarkable system in the body is in charge of regulating various physiological processes, including those related to skin health.

In fact, research has discovered that there are endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid receptors in the skin. The CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) but they are also present in peripheral tissues, including the skin. These receptors play a role in regulating sensations, like pain or itching, and are primarily located on nerve endings. The CB2 receptors are found more abundantly in the peripheral tissues, including the skin and immune cells. They are associated with modulating immune responses and inflammation. The presence of CB1 and CB2 receptors in the skin, along with the production of endocannabinoids, indicates that the ECS is involved in regulating various skin functions and promoting skin health.

So now that we know the science, why should you incorporate CBD into your skincare regime?

First of all, one of the key advantages in using CBD is its promising potential for reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many skin conditions and research has demonstrated that CBD may inhibit inflammatory cytokines and signaling pathways. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that CBD suppresses inflammatory responses in human skin cells, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory skin disorders and symptoms such as redness, heat, swelling, pain, and itching.

Additionally, the CBD molecule is a potent antioxidant*. This is good news as one of the leading causes of premature skin aging is free radical damage to the epidermis. Products with antioxidants are used extensively in skincare because they can prevent or delay some types of cell damage by counteracting free radicals and oxidative stress.

CBD may also offers relief for those of us who struggle with breakouts due to how it regulates the oil production on your skin**. Sebum is a naturally occurring oil produced by the sebaceous glands and its overproduction plays a pivotal role in causing breakouts. CBD has been shown to regulate sebum production by modulating the activity of sebocytes, the cells responsible for producing sebum. Additionally, CBD's potentially anti-inflammatory effects may help alleviate breakout-related inflammation by reducing the associated redness and swelling. 

Furthermore, CBD has analgesic properties, which makes it an effective ingredient for soothing irritated skin and alleviating discomfort caused by various skin conditions like rashes and itching. A review in 2009 highlighted the potential of CBD in managing pruritus (itching) and inflammatory skin conditions, citing its potential ability to inhibit itching sensations and promote skin barrier function.

Lastly, CBD is considered a natural emollient. Natural emollients primarily protect the skin by creating a barrier between the skin and harsh environmental damage, locking in moisture. Plant derived emollients like CBD are abundant in lipids, which form a protective layer on the skin that restores and maintains moisture levels, while also making the skin exceptionally soft. This results in all-day hydration that is long-lasting and effective.

Although more robust and rigorous scientific study is still needed on CBD and its benefits for skincare, it is right to be encouraged that its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties can address a host of various skins issues while also promoting skin regeneration and healing.

So go ahead, invest in your beauty and skin health and see the results for yourself!

If you want to learn more, including why we recommend our Beauty Oils to start, read “Beauty Oils: Your Go-To CBD Skincare Product” next!

*Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol

**Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes