CThe compound found in cannabis called BD or cannabidiol is becoming quite popular these days. CBD is becoming the norm in oil, gummies and capsules. But you might be surprised to learn that this magic ingredient has also become a regular in many skin care products, including cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreens, and even chapsticks (lip balms).
What is so unique about CBD that it has suddenly become a buzzword in the skin care industry?
What is CBD?
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CBD is derived from hemp, which shares the same botanical family as marijuana – the Cannabis sativa plant. However, the most important difference between the two is the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the substance that produces the psychoactive effects in marijuana – present in them. Hemp contains only 0.3 percent THC, so skin care products containing CBD will never get you “high.”
In fact, a 2018 World Health Organization (WHO) report good Claims that CBD does not negatively affect humans – no risk of abuse or dependence.
For nearly two millennia, CBD has been used as a medicinal plant. Scientists are obsessed with the therapeutic properties of CBD in treating anxiety, stress, chronic pain, migraines, insomnia, diabetes, epilepsy and even depression. It is also helpful during and after chemotherapy. And as a dermatologist, I can definitely say that CBD has incredible benefits for our skin as well.
a powerful combination
There are majorly two reasons behind various skin problems and ageing: free radical damage to the epidermis (outermost layer of your skin) and irregular functioning of the endocannabinoid system in the body resulting in inflammation, excessive oil production and skin pigmentation.
Various studies have shown that CBD has incredible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied topically, CBD interacts with two CBD receptors in our body called CB1 and CB2. This leads to a decrease in interleukins (secretion of white blood cells) which are responsible for threatening our immune system during emergencies. As a result, inflammation is reduced. This is why CBD in sunscreen may help protect against inflammation caused by sunburn.
CBD is also known to help the skin retain moisture and combat dryness. This property, combined with its anti-inflammatory actions, can be of great help in cases of eczema and psoriasis to reduce itching and redness. A 2019 study Published in Italian magazine La Clinica Teraputica showed that a specific CBD ointment improved skin hydration in participants with psoriasis, eczema or scars. While this was a small study with only 20 patients, more research is needed to confirm the findings and determine the effectiveness of CBD ointments for skin conditions.
The magic of CBD isn’t just limited to inflammatory skin diseases—it also has antibacterial properties. This can be an ace card in the treatment of acne. CBD reduces the production of sebum in the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for the visible oil on the skin. Sebum and open pores attract gram-positive bacteria resulting in acne. CBD is effective in killing this bacterial culture and hence, is advocated for use in acne treatment.
Another benefit of CBD-based topical treatments is that it improves skin elasticity and prevents sagging and wrinkling of the skin. CBD also overcomes the side effects of commonly prescribed topical steroids that can cause thinning of the skin with frequent use over a long period of time. It may fill a gap in skin treatments for patients who prefer non-steroid therapy.
It is because of these benefits that CBD is widely used in cosmetics and skin care products. However, with more research, other benefits of CBD in skin care may be discovered.
Read also: The anti-bacterial facewash you’ve been using every day is killing your skin. go probiotic
Before Buying CBD Skin Care Products
Since CBD is new in skin care and research is still limited, manufacturers and sellers may take advantage of this fact to trick customers into purchasing counterfeit hemp products. That’s why it’s important to know how CBD is used in skin care products.
Devote some time to thoroughly understanding CBD and its benefits. Learn about the vocabulary associated with compounds. Choose brands that are licensed, reliable, transparent, regulated, and adhere to ethical standards. Read customer reviews before spending on these products.
Check the ingredients list and make sure they are all organic. See also for CBD concentration. Higher CBD levels are used for pain relief rather than skin care. Know the difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil. The former is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant and has no CBD value, while CBD oil is extracted from hemp leaves. Check the source of the cannabis plant. The source of the ideal hemp plants comes down to their cultivar and, most importantly, the level of the compound delta-9 THC it contains. To be legally classified as a cannabis plant, a cannabis plant must contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis. Be consistent in using the products to see results.
cbd skin care market
According to market WatchThe global CBD market was important With $633.6 million, it is expected to grow to $3.4 billion by 2026. India is following this lead with greater adoption of CBD for a healthy, pain-free existence. CBD is gaining popularity due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties, which help treat many skin problems and slow down aging. CBD has proven its usefulness as a pain reliever for chronic pain, especially pain related to cancer.
To accelerate the development of the Indian cannabis industry, the Narendra Modi government is organizing the 2nd Indian Cannabis Expo in Mumbai on February 24-25. This one-of-a-kind B2B hemp exhibition provides a platform for exhibitors to present their brands to mentors, potential buyers and business experts.
With amazing results in treating pain and its march into the skin care industry, it’s safe to say that the CBD trend will only climb upward. The CBD market in India is also booming, both in terms of variety of new products and expanding consumer base. However, until CBD is widely accepted in skin care, it’s a good idea to stick to safer topical serums and scrubs.
Dr Deepali Bhardwaj is a Dermatologist, Anti-allergy specialist, Laser Surgeon and Internationally trained Esthetician. She tweets @dermatdoc. Thoughts are personal.
(Edited by Hamra Like)