CBD Skincare - Everything You Need To Know

When you think of skincare, usually experts tout the benefits of vitamin c and hyaluronic acid but there's a new powerhouse ingredient taking the skincare industry by storm - CBD.

CBD is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp that was discovered in the 1940's. The benefits of CBD are still being uncovered and what we know thus far is that it can help to provide relief for common, everyday ailments such as pain, anxiety, inflammation and poor sleep. But CBD isn’t just good inside of the body. Its benefits can also be gained when applied topically, too. Studies have found that CBD oil contains anti-inflammatory effects on the skin and can be effective for dry skin and acne.

CBD, The Endocannabinoid System & Skin Health

The Endocannabinoid System is a complex communication system compromised of 3 components:

Endocannabinoids - compounds that our body's naturally produce on demand. The two Endocannabinoids that have been identified are:

Anandamide (AEA)

2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG)

Receptors CB1 & CB2 - they are found throughout peripheral and central nervous system. Endocannabinoids bind to these receptors.

Enzymes - These are responsible for the breakdown of Endocannabinoids. The two enzymes identified are:

fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) which breaks down AEA

monoacylglycerol acid lipase(MAGL), which typically breaks down 2-AG

What does the ECS do?

Experts are still discovering more about the ECS but research has shown that it is involved in regulating many bodily functions, such as:

Inflammation

Mood

Appetite

Immune function

Sleep

Pain

Skin health

Fertility

Research has shown that CBD stops the breakdown of our bodies natural Endocannabinoids (Anandamide & 2-AG), which plays a significant role in human health, especially skin health, as Endocannabinoids are produced on demand in the skin and inside the body to regulate bodily functions, such as the ones listed above.

What can CBD do for your skin?

1. CBD can protect the skin from oxidative stress with its antioxidant properties. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an overload of free radicals in the skin and not enough antioxidants to balance them out, this can lead to sun damage and signs of aging (I.e. wrinkles, fine lines)

2. A 2019 study indicates that CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation which can be especially helpful for those with skin irritations such as eczema and psoriasis.

3. A Study published in 2009 stated that products that contained cannabinoids that either stimulate the CB2 receptors in human skin or that stop the breakdown of the enzyme FAAH, which CBD specifically does, might act as a therapeutic tool for dry skin.

4. A Study published in 2014 titled "Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes" indicates that CBD may help to balance out the oil production in skin, in-turn reducing acne.

Studies on CBD for skin health are still on the rise and the findings thus far are very exciting and promising. View our 'CBD Bath & Body' Products Here

disclaimer - These products and statements are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before starting a new supplemental product.