If there’s an essential oil that’s overhyped while still treated as a mystery, it’s CBD. So many half-truths surround it, with proponents treating it as a magic plant-based ingredient and opponents linking it to marijuana’s “high” effect.
So, should you add CBD oil to your skincare routine? Well, let’s demystify this oil, understand what it can do for your skin, and what you should do to achieve that.
What Is and Isn’t CBD?
It belongs to a group of substances called cannabinoids, whose role in our bodies is to regulate cell communication.
When we classify cannabinoids based on production, they are of three types: endocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, and phytocannabinoids.
Our bodies biosynthesize endocannabinoids naturally to self-regulate the nervous and immune systems. Endocannabinoids also regulate skin functions like cell renewal, so their inefficiency can cause skin problems like itchiness, acne, atopic dermatitis, and hyper or hypopigmentation.
Phytocannabinoids come from plants, such as Cannabis sativa. The third type of cannabinoid, synthetic cannabinoids, is chemically processed. We’ll link you to a study where you can read more about the three types later in this article. Now, let’s focus on phytocannabinoids because CBD oil is plant-based.
Why Add CBD Oil to Beauty Products? The Claimed Benefits
Cannabinoid products contain ingredients that support the functions of the endocannabinoids in our system. Besides that, the purported benefits of using pure CBD oil for the skin are:
Acne Prevention
First, CBD may help reduce sebum production, which is one of the causes of acne. When the body releases too much sebum, it exacerbates an inflammatory condition called acne vulgaris.
Secondly, anecdotal claims from advocates say that CBD treatments could offer anti-acne actions because they help suppress cell proliferation and inhibit changes in lipid profile, two situations that may cause acne.
Further, CBD is already in use in many countries without causing substantial side effects, which makes it a potential option for treating acne vulgaris as some medications, like isotretinoin, have adverse side effects.
Counter Inflammation
CBD oil could also offer antioxidant benefits that allow it to help fight free radicals. Because of this, it is being used in some pain relief ointments to relieve inflammation.
In a study of participants with skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, acne scars, and psoriasis, there was considerable improvement in skin hydration, water loss, and skin elasticity after three months of topical application of an ointment containing CBD. The study also suggested that topical creams without THC can improve the quality of life of patients with inflammatory skin conditions.
How To Use CBD Oil on Your Skin
There are several ways you would be able to use CBD oil for your skin. You can apply it to your face directly since topical use can help calm inflamed skin. This may also help mitigate itching.
If you have inflammation or scars on some parts, you could try spot treatment instead.
Another practical solution is adding CBD oil to your makeup, like foundation, to enjoy the potential benefits throughout the day. Alternatively, a few drops on your face mask could help increase the moisturizing properties during your self-care session.
Should You Use CBD for Skin Problems?
There are notable studies to understand CBD’s effect on skin disorders and inflammation, but studies are still ongoing to validate the oil’s potential to treat the skin barrier, acne, and similar skin problems. That said, you’ll enjoy the said potential benefits of CBD when using pure oil with a high percentage of cannabidiol.
Unfortunately, there’s inconsistent labeling in the market, with some products giving a range instead of stating an oil percentage. Use pure CBD oil to avoid mixtures with cannabinoids such delta-8, which is intoxicating.
Also, remember that CBD oil isn’t the same as hemp oil. CBD comes from flowers, leaves, and stalks. On the other hand, hemp oil comes from seeds, so it doesn’t contain cannabidiol, so you’ll be using something different.
Products that combine CBD and hemp oil give you more benefits, as hemp is rich in fatty acids like Omega 3 to boost collagen production to counter the effects of premature aging.
Needless to say, you have to study CBD as an alternative treatment very thoroughly before you use it to help deal with skin issues or even your overall health. One of the ways to learn about this oil and find the best product is by seeking health experts and alternative medicine enthusiasts eager to share what they know about cannabis. Hinterland co., for instance, provides unbiased reviews from actual users of CBD products. Such reviews will help you learn more about cannabis as a whole and help you determine if it is indeed a great option for you.
Final Thoughts
Both misconceptions and unproven facts surround CBD oil. Some people assume that since this oil comes from Cannabis sativa, it can get you high. The truth is, there’s a difference between marijuana and hemp, and CBD comes from the flowers and leaves of the latter.
These parts of a hemp plant have low THC levels that can’t intoxicate you and a high CBD level that can boost your hydration levels, relieve inflammations, and control sebum production to reduce acne. Therefore, CBD oil is potentially an excellent addition to your skincare cabinet at home.
