Did you know that the skin is the largest human organ? And it arguably does the most, constantly protecting you against all the elements you put it up against: heat, cold, and other various elements. It’s vital to take good care of your skin to keep it healthy which will ultimately make you feel a lot better about yourself – and CBD skincare might be your answer.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis plants, the hemp strain of cannabis to be more specific. CBD-based products contain an almost untraceable amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol – the psychoactive element of marijuana) meaning there are no mind altering effects, which is a big part of its appeal and growing popularity.
The body interacts with CBD through a set of receptors (CB1 and CB2) and enzymes which constitute the endocannabinoid system. Initially CBD oils were only for oral use, but it has been found that CB2 receptors are present in the skin, allowing for effective topical application of CBD skin care products.
CBD has various properties that make it an ideal skin care treatment. For example, it is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. When using topical application (e.g. creams and balms) you can target a specific area. It is also suggested that when CBD is stored in the skin layers it can provide a more effective long-term relief.
Here are five benefits of CBD for your skin:
- Dry skin
Look for CBD products that have extract marked as ‘full spectrum’ – this is the highest quality and most effective CBD extract as it maintains all the natural terpenes and compounds as they found in the hemp plant. When these elements are kept together they have been found to be more effective – this is known as the ‘entourage effect’. Full spectrum CBD extract contains vitamin E which will keeps skin moisturised. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties also help maintain a natural healthy glow.
- Anti-ageing
CBD is a natural antioxidant which means it works to neutralise and fight against all the free radicals that we come up against each and everyday. Free radicals damage our cells and are almost unavoidable from fast food to pollution. Using an antioxidant, such as CBD, will neutralise the negative effects – rejuvenating the skin and slowing the ageing process.
- Rashes and burns
Linalool is a terpene which has burn-soothing properties, and also happens to be present in full spectrum CBD. Thanks to this, people have started to use CBD as a home remedy to soothe burns – and in particular, sunburn. This soothing quality combined with anti-inflammatory properties and moisturising qualities also make CBD cream a perfect candidate for treating rashes.
- Pain
Studies have found that CBD is a promising natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic. While research is being carried out into how CBD could be used to manage chronic pain in conditions like arthritis, people are turning to it for everyday use in replacement of painkillers. CBD cream for post workout recovery has been widely praised by athletes.
- Acne
Acne can be triggered by various things: blocked pores, inflammation, and overproduction of sebum – the oil which is secreted from our faces. CBD is a natural anti-inflammatory which is step one on the road to acne prevention, and the compound has also been found to regulate the production of sebum – which could minimise acne flare ups.
