CBD has officially made its mark on skincare, yet there’s much confusion around what exactly it does for skin. To clear up this trend, we consulted experts like Jacknin, von Pfetten and Grimm to understand their favorite CBD products and how best to incorporate them into daily regimens.
Research continues on CBD’s potential to address common skincare conditions, but we suggest adding it as an active solution alongside your existing regimens.
Anti-Inflammatory
CBD contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can soothe irritated skin, diminish redness and combat oxidative stress that causes damage to cells.
CBD may help treat and prevent inflammatory conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea by curbing overproduction of sebum which often contributes to these issues.
CBD used topically can also help regulate sebaceous gland activity to decrease oil production, while acting as a powerful humectant that attracts moisture back to the skin and keeps it hydrated. For best results, look for cleansers containing high concentrations of the active ingredient; third-party lab testing ensures your chosen product contains an appropriate dosage; it is also best practice to layer serums before creams for maximum effect.
Antioxidant
CBD is an antioxidant, so it can protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals. Furthermore, CBD stimulates collagen production to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Finding the appropriate CBD skincare products depends on your desired effects and skin type, including any allergies or sensitivities that you have, whether or not THC (which is psychoactive) should be avoided, and what aspects of natural ingredients, sustainable practices and cruelty-free formulations matter to you personally.
Be mindful that not all CBD-infused skincare contains actual CBD; hemp oil (which offers its own set of benefits, like hydration and control of oil production) may also be present. To be certain you’re getting all of the benefits associated with actual CBD, look for words such as “Hemp CBD”, phytocannabinoid-rich hemp extract or full spectrum hemp oil in the ingredients list in order to verify if you’re getting actual benefits of the product.
Anti-Aging
CBD’s anti-ageing benefits come from its natural antioxidant capabilities, which work to diminish fine lines and wrinkles while also improving skin tone, dullness and dryness.
CBD has been shown to stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping keep skin firm and youthful looking. Furthermore, CBD acts as a great barrier enhancer that can soothe irritated or sensitive skin types while helping decrease inflammation while decreasing sebum production. It’s an ideal ingredient for acne-prone skin as its potency may decrease inflammation while decreasing sebum production.
Soothing
CBD contains anti-inflammatory properties, making it the perfect remedy to soothe irritated skin. Furthermore, its ability to balance sebum production (which may contribute to acne breakouts) makes CBD skincare products such as creams, lotions and balms effective against redness while simultaneously combatting signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.
Studies published in Clinical Therapeutics found that CBD ointment effectively reduced redness, itching, dermatitis and oil secretion associated with psoriasis and eczema. Furthermore, its use improved skin condition by increasing hydration levels while simultaneously decreasing oil secretion.
Look for products containing pure CBD extracted directly from the hemp plant (not hemp seed oil), that have been third-party tested and ensure they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, toxins and plasticizers. Select those with gentle fragrance and an all-natural, healthy ingredients list such as Leef Organics Nooks + Crannies soap which includes olive oil, sunflower seed oil, kaolin clay and chamomile extract to nourish skin health; plus it even comes in an innovative plantable container with non-GMO tomato seeds so you can grow it all yourself in your backyard!