Benefits of CBD Oil for Skin Care

Your Skin

Cannabis-infused skincare has come a long way in a short time. Since the skin is our largest organ, it stands to reason that more and more consumers would want to turn to natural products whenever possible. Get to know the benefits of CBD oil for skin care.

First, let’s talk more about the skin. This protective barrier for the body is both multifunctional and complex. Fun fact – it takes up about one seventh of a human’s total body weight. The skin is made up of three layers: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The epidermis is the outer layer, acting as a barrier and consistently turning skin cells. Beneath that is the dermis, which contains capillaries and nerves (think temperature, pain, pressure). Additionally, this layer is responsible for oil glands, hair follicles, and sweat glands, as well as oil production. The innermost layer – hypodermis – is what attaches the skin to the rest of the body. Consisting primarily of water, connective tissue, and fat, it cushions joints and bones, while also providing insulation.

The various cells contained in all three layers of skin work succinctly in an intertwined, complicated way that is thought to be regulated by the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) are expressed in all types of skin cells, thus causing the ECS to engage in cannabinoid signaling. This process promotes both barrier function and healthy skin renewal. In addition, the ECS regulates a variety of physiological functions, including cell turnover. Moreover, cannabinoid receptor signaling can slow the process of abnormally high skin cell production, as well as reducing inflammation & pain and soothing the skin’s sensory nerves.

Benefits Of CBD Oil

Many might wonder if CBD skin care products have the ability to penetrate the skin enough to even make a difference. This is a valid concern, especially because the research is still fairly new. The good news here is that a recent study by University of Kentucky scientists proposes that it can. Findings also suggest that CBD is much more permeable through the skin than THC.

Beyond just its potential anti inflammatory properties, there are some more benefits of CBD oil. Since most over-the-counter lotions and skin creams are composed of primarily water, oils (often petroleum based or synthetic), silicone, thickeners, and preservatives, it’s no wonder companies are utilizing CBD as an ingredient to their skin care lines, as there is a huge market for skin care that contain a lot less chemicals. In fact, many of the common ingredients found in drugstore products may actually irritate the skin, which can cause the opposite effect of the initial desired result.

Plant-based oils, such as hemp seed oil, have been used for years in many cultures to improve the skin’s appearance and overall health. Oils for topical use fall into two categories. The first are essential oils, which are extracted with heat and retain a high level of terpenes, the volatile compounds responsible for taste and smell. The second are carrier oils, such as argon oil, which retain natural fats and waxes when extracted by a cold-press method.

How to Maximize CBD Benefits?

When it comes to choosing a CBD topical or CBD beauty product, a lot depends on what else is included in the product and if the product is made by a reputable CBD company.  CBD skincare products may include a full spectrum hemp oil extract containing CBD, THC, and all inherent terpenes, cannabinoids & fatty acids which is reported to have a therapeutic entourage effect that is more effective than just CBD on its own. If you’re looking for a product that can help address an issue in a specific area of your body, a topical containing CBD is a great option. According to Tina Alster, M.D., clinical professor of dermatology at Georgetown University, “Topical CBD is safe and works effectively for all skin types. The products are easy to administer.”

Sources:

NCBI.gov

https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/hemp-skin-health