3 Benefits of CBD Skincare

If you hadn’t already noticed, CBD skincare has taken over the health and wellness scene. As the legalization of this cannabinoid sweeps the globe, CBD is making appearances in everything from men’s anti-ageing creams to skin balms and much more. As is normal with any new trend, if you’ve never tried, or lack first-hand experience with it, you may wonder if it really works and if its skin health benefits have any truth to them. So, we thought we’d dive into the science behind CBD, its purported skin health benefits, and whether you should try it.

Hemp Seed Oil vs. CBD Oil

This point can be a little confusing, and the labels on skincare products don’t make it any clearer. The most important thing to know is that these oils are extracted from different plants. Cannabis produces two main plant breeds: hemp and marijuana. In history, hemp has been used for textiles, food, fuel, and oils for medicinal use. However, marijuana, which is still illegal in much of the world for is psychoactive properties, produces the non-psychoactive cannabinoid CBD. The differences between hemp seed oil and CBD oil are:

Hemp Seed Oil

• Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as gamma-linolenic acid
• Has antioxidants properties
• Doesn’t have any psychoactive properties due to its low levels of CBD and THC

CBD Oil (full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, isolate)

• Interacts with the endocannabinoid system
• Has anti-inflammatory properties
• Offers pain relief

What Benefits Does CBD Offer?

Cannabidiol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, plus it works to regulate sebum production in skin. Below are some common skincare uses for CBD.

Minimizes Inflammation

Cannabidiol is excellent for treating pain, and it also helps manage inflammation. In fact, CBD is commonly used in skin creams for this reason, because it can calm the skin and provide relief. This reaction can be attributed to the two CBD receptors in the brain that activate when cannabidiol enters the body. Essentially, these receptors communicate with the body, telling it to reduce the inflammatory response, leading to less redness and irritation. Furthermore, research shows that CBD can help treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Prevents Acne

In the brain, it is the CB1 and CB2 receptors that interact with CBD. Cannabidiol can help control oil production because the sebaceous glands that manage oil levels in the skin also have CB2 receptors. Moreover, recent studies have found that CBD also possesses antibacterial properties, enabling it to kill a range of bacteria. Two of the main causes of acne are excess oil and bacteria, meaning that if cannabidiol can treat them both, it can promote long-term skin health. As a result, many cosmetic brands have begun to combine CBD with natural oils like tea tree oil to concoct potent natural acne-fighting remedies.

Nourishes Dry Skin

The interplay between the CB1 and CB2 receptors isn’t only limited to reducing oil production to prevent acne. Actually, these same receptors can boost oil production when dealing with chronically dry skin. Cannabidiol promotes the normal functioning of the CB2 receptor, allowing it to rebalance and encourage proper natural moisturization of the skin. The skin's natural barrier is vital for keeping it healthy and protecting it from bacteria that may enter when the skin is too dry and begins cracking. Therefore, CBD creams, oils, and balms can provide great relief by offering moisturizing effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and reduced or pain caused by dry skin. Not to mention, this can help people with chronic dry skin get more restful nights, as skin tends to itch more at bedtime, which can keep people up late. 

Should I Try CBD Skincare?

If you struggle with inflammation, dryness, or acne, you may want to consider trying CBD skincare. This type of skincare is totally safe for topical use. However, dermatologists recommend testing skincare first to see if you might have a negative reaction. While it is more likely to be from a botanical than the CBD itself, always do a patch test to be sure. Should you have any negative reactions, stop using the skincare product immediately.

How to Choose Quality CBD Skincare Products

At Parkdale Brass, we’re all about using knowledge to make informed decisions. That’s why we recommend doing your research and reading the label. Always stay on the look out for CBD isolate to be sure you are using a product with high-quality CBD. Not only is this the purest form of cannabidiol, but it also doesn’t contain any THC, doesn’t clog pores, and can help improve your skin. Also, remember that hemp or hemp seed oil is not the same thing as CBD oil. So, don’t be fooled! If you are looking for pain relief, you will need higher dose skincare products than if you are simply looking to treat skin issues.

Time to Relax

Mindful cannabis consumption can also include using the plant to heal the largest organ in our bodies, our skin. We hope that you will consider using CBD skincare, not only for its many benefits but also to help normalize the plant’s use and slowly chip away at the stigma surrounding it. For more cannabis education and culture, check out the Parkdale Brass blog. Those looking to learn more about cannabis products and strain recommendations head to our Instagram! Be sure to stop by The Parkdale Brass shop to check out cannabis accessories.