Cannabidiol (or CBD for short) has gained significant popularity in recent years for its contribution to potential health benefits. A maybe somewhat surprising area where CBD has shown promise is skin care! Now you might be wondering: is CBD good for your skin? And Why? Let's explore this topic.
For starters, CBD is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant. It is believed and was scientifically shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties [1]. And exactly these properties make it a popular ingredient in skin care products - like Harmony's line of CBD-infused creams and balms! The topical application of CBD may help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness and according to many users even potentially alleviate symptoms of some skin conditions.
In the UK and EU markets, interest in CBD for skin care has been on the rise for the last years. More and more people become aware of its potential benefits. While research is still ongoing (and definitive medical claims cannot be made) - incorporating a CBD-infused product into your skincare routine could definitely be worth considering!
Is CBD Good For Skin?
Products that contain CBD (a compound found in the hemp plant) have rapidly been gaining popularity in skin care due to their potential benefits for your skin [2]. Various CBD beauty products including CBD creams, CBD balms and CBD oil serums have emerged on the market. They claim to soothe, moisturise, and improve overall skin hydration to maintain the health of your skin.
When using CBD skin-care products it's essential to choose products that contain high-quality ingredients, such as pure CBD and other beneficial components like hemp seed oil, botanicals and essential oils (like tea tree oil). Harmony products are formulated with natural ingredients and guarantee transparency about the concentration and source of the CBD used. We 3rd party test our products regularly and make the certificates of analysis publically available on our website.
So yes, CBD is good for your skin. But if you have a specific skin condition you would like to address, it would be smart to talk to a dermatologist or healthcare professional before you incorporate CBD skin care products into your routine. This way you can avoid potential side effects or interactions with other topicals. Since the dosage and efficacy of CBD can vary from person to person, it's crucial to follow the recommended usage directions on product labels and be cautious of any adverse reactions [3].
How is CBD Good for Your Skin?
Multiple studies suggest that the so-called endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a role in maintaining healthy skin. CBD's interaction with this system may contribute to its positive effects on various skin conditions and inflammatory skin diseases [4].
CBD has proven topical benefits like anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a common factor in many skin disorders: including acne, rosacea and eczema. By reducing inflammation, CBD could potentially soothe these conditions. This, in return, helps to maintain a healthier, more balanced complexion. CBD also has antioxidant properties, which protect the skin from environmental stressors such as UV radiation and pollution. These factors might accelerate skin ageing, resulting in wrinkles, fine lines and a dull complexion. The antioxidant effects of CBD may help your skin in combating these stressors and in this way promote healthier, more youthful-looking skin [1].
CBD Products for Different Skin Conditions
CBD research suggests it may help with skin problems such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory benefits could potentially reduce inflammation and irritation - resulting in a much calmer and healthier-looking skin [5]. Additionally, CBD's antioxidant properties may protect your skin from environmental aggressors, such as pollution and UV radiation. These are known to cause premature ageing. CBD has also been explored as a potential treatment for certain skin conditions like itchy skin and chronic skin issues such as psoriasis or dermatitis [6].
If you have sensitive or dry skin, CBD skin products could offer you the care and relief you need. Applying a topical CBD gel or balm may enhance your skin's health and alleviate itching or irritation. On the other hand - for those suffering from acne-prone skin or excessively oily skin - cannabidiol has shown promising effects on the cells that produce the skin's natural oils (sebum). Using a CBD cream or CBD tincture might help balance sebum production and reduce inflammation, resulting in healthier, clearer skin [7].
Another study has shown that topical CBD products might provide soothing benefits and promote skin healing. Applying a high-quality CBD balm or cream could help reduce irritation, redness and inflammation that often characterise atopic dermatitis [8].
With all of this in mind, remember to keep your expectations realistic. And never hesitate to consult a dermatologist when needed. While it seems like CBD may offer therapeutic benefits for your skin - it's essential to recognise that everyone's skin is different. As with any other skincare product, use CBD skin care responsibly and attentively. Carry out a patch test and keep an eye on possible side effects, making adjustments as necessary.
written by
anna falk - head of product
As the Head of Product at Harmony, Dr Anna Falk leads the development of our products and provides expert tips for your wellness. With over 10 years of experience in the research and development of natural products, her work is based on rigorous scientific studies.
Anna is an award-winning, internationally published researcher with a PhD in Organic Chemistry. She applies her expertise to develop Harmony's certified products that support your overall well-being. From research to development, she ensures that our products are of the highest quality and meet the highest standards.
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[7] Oláh A, Tóth BI, Borbíró I, Sugawara K, Szöllõsi AG, Czifra G, Pál B, Ambrus L, Kloepper J, Camera E, Ludovici M, Picardo M, Voets T, Zouboulis CC, Paus R, Bíró T. Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes. J Clin Invest. 2014 Sep;124(9):3713-24. — link to source
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