The beauty world has been ignited by Cannabidiol’s multifaceted abilities. and it’s about to take your skin-care routine to an elevated level. That’s because of the star ingredient, known for its reputed stress-reducing and pain-relieving (among many others) benefits in the wellness space, has incredible finesse when it comes to topical, skin-boosting use.
You ’re probably already aware that inflammation is the root cause of many skin conditions, from acne to rosacea. Because of cannabidiol's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, using it can reduce puffiness, swelling, and even soreness, which is why so many men and women are turning to CBD for everything skin-related.
Studies have shown that CBD can potentially be helpful for fighting acne, too, and may even give your skin a more youthful appearance, thanks to its inflammation-fighting powers. The endocannabinoid system consists of many cannabinoid receptors, and a large portion of these are found in the skin. Molecules in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, interact with this system to create the aforementioned positive effects. Of course, when it comes to skincare, topicals are key. Smoke, no matter the substance, is never favorable to the skin. In fact, if skin care is at the forefront of one’s mind, it may be wise to forego smoking altogether in exchange for vaporizing or edibles. For targeted healing, there is a range of topical products to consider trying.
Essential Nutrients in CBD
1. Vitamins C & E
These vitamins act as antioxidants and help protect the skin against damage from the sun, smoke, and other environmental pollutants. In addition, they also neutralize free radicals and keep them from damaging the collagen and elastin in your skin, keeping your skin tight and youthful in appearance.
2. B-complex Vitamins
B-complex vitamins play a key role in the skin’s construction process. Low levels of B vitamins in your diet can lead to various skin conditions, including dermatitis.
3. Vitamins A & D
These vitamins are largely responsible for skin repair and, in turn, promote healthy-looking skin. A diet deficient in vitamins A and D can result in dry, flaky skin. Plus, studies have shown vitamin A also is important for skin cell growth, as well as inhibiting oil production and encouraging skin cell differentiation.
4. Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Fatty acids help to regenerate the skin’s protective outer layer, which results in smoother and more youthful-looking skin. Oftentimes, people suffering from skin conditions such as acne and dry skin are lacking these fatty acids in their diet.
How CBD Can Help Various Skin Conditions
Aging
Due to CBD’s numerous vitamins and fatty acids and their roles as antioxidants, CBD is a powerful ability to protect the skin and neutralize free radicals. Oftentimes, these free radicals are brought on by overexposure to the sun and UV rays, smoke and various other pollutants. Free radicals also can cause fine lines and wrinkles, leading to premature aging.
Acne
An incredibly frustrating skin condition, acne is also very common. Acne has numerous underlying causes but often is brought on by stress, hormonal changes, medications, and poor skincare habits. Its direct cause is the overproduction of sebum, an oily substance produced to protect the skin.
In addition, the skin’s sebaceous glands produce additional fatty oils, called lipids. Lipids are responsible for a number of functions, including creating a barrier on the skin to protect against bacteria and viruses, as well as helping lubricate and waterproof the skin. These sebaceous glands actually contain endocannabinoid receptors, which is why CBD is so effective in skincare.
Because of these endocannabinoid receptors found in the sebaceous glands, CBD effectively can be used to regulate the production of these oils on the skin. CBD can help inhibit lipid production, which in turn reduces oil on the skin. As mentioned previously, the inflamed blemishes associated with acne typically are a result of too much oil.
CBD also can help treat acne and blemishes because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Oftentimes, the skin surrounding acne and its blemishes is intensely inflamed, making CBD incredibly helpful in reducing the redness, swelling, and irritation. Plus, CBD also can act as an antibacterial agent, which helps decrease the likelihood of acne returning in the future.
Eczema
Eczema’s exact cause is unknown, although it’s thought to either be a type of allergic response or the result of under-production of lipids in the sebaceous glands. Oftentimes, the rash associated with eczema is an inflammatory reaction caused by the aforementioned conditions. By manipulating CBD’s powerful effects, it also can be used to increase the output of sebum, preventing eczema and dry skin.
In addition, because CBD has potent anti-inflammatory properties, it can help to largely eradicate the rash associated with eczema.
Skin Allergies & Cancer
Studies have shown CBD can help control cell proliferation and differentiation, meaning it is incredibly helpful when treating diseases such as skin allergies and cancer. CBD’s antioxidant properties can help eliminate malignant cells, as well as neutralizing the free radicals that often lead to cancerous cell mutations.
Some research has shown CBD also works on warts, moles and, in some cases, HPV outbreaks. This is thought to be because CBD actually may cause apoptosis (programmed cell death).