CBD is famous for its “Do anything” reputation. People have found uses for CBD in treating stress, addiction, mental health problems, and even covid. CBD seems like the gift that keeps on giving and even has applications for the skin.
Yes, you read that right. As incredible as it seems, CBD is also very useful for skin problems and diseases. Many cosmetics now include CBD as an active ingredient to improve their products.
But is this hype true? Is CBD a functional solution for skin problems? The answer is yes, and many studies show this. Researchers have been looking into CBD’s advantages for the human skin and how best to apply it.
So what skin condition is CBD helpful with, and what are the best ways to use CBD for your skin? You’ll find answers to this and more on what researchers have discovered in the paragraphs below.
About CBD And Skin
To understand why CBD is good for the skin, the first thing to look at is what is known as the ECS. ECS is the endocannabinoid system of the body. It deals with regulating the body’s central nervous system and is also linked to our immune system.
While most studies have focused on the above two, recent researchers have discovered more links for the ECS. It has been proven to play a vital role in the skin’s barrier function. It has also been shown to play a role in maintaining the homeostasis of the skin.
Poor management by the endocannabinoid system in the skin has been linked to many skin disorders. CBD can help with this and does so through the endocannabinoid system.
Studies have shown that applying CBD topically is a viable way to introduce it into your skin. It has a reasonable molecular weight and is also absorbed intracutaneously. People with skin disorders can apply CBD topically as it has a good permeation potential.
CBD helps by interacting with two receptors in the body known as CB1 and CB2. There it turns down inflammatory responses that cause most skin problems. CBD can help to properly manage the endocannabinoid system leading to immediate relief for most people.
How Can CBD Help Skin Conditions/Diseases?
Skin disorders could either be genetic or result from certain lifestyle factors. They could manifest as rashes, itchiness, inflammation, and kinds of changes. They could also lead to scars and can be painful for people who suffer from them.
Skin disorders are treated using CBD face cream, CBD body butter as well as other creams, ointments, and medications with the right ingredients. Research into using CBD for skin disorders shows some eye-opening benefits. Here are some common skin disorders that people suffer from and how CBD is useful for these skin diseases.
Acne
Acne occurs when your skin has blocked follicles. This leads to a build-up of dead skin, oil, and bacteria in your pores. Acne manifests as breakouts on your skin that could be blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or a combination of all. You could also have nodules or painful cysts.
Studies show that CBD is beneficial for those suffering from acne. It combats it using three anti-acne actions. It normalizes the pathways elevated by pro-acne agents. It suppresses the process that leads to excessive cell deaths and prevents pro-acne agents from activating inflammatory cytokines. It also regulates sebum production.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
This is a skin condition that manifests as itchy and dry skin. This often leads to scaling, cracking of the skin, and swelling. It is common in people who have a family history of this condition.
Studies show that in patients with Eczema, CBD helped with inhibiting the production of keratinocytes. This means that the use of CBD resulted in therapeutic relief for patients. There was also a general reduction in dryness and itching noticed.
Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
After a person has chickenpox, the virus is usually dormant in the body. The reactivation of this virus is what leads to shingles. It manifests as a painful rash. It isn’t known what causes this reactivation.
Studies show that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. This can help to reduce the inflammation and pain that patients with shingles face thus bringing relief.
Hives (Urticaria)
Hives are a common skin rash that is often triggered by a reaction. This reaction could be to medicine, food, or other substances. Hives manifest as raised and itchy skin-coloured welts on the skin.
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties also come in very handy for hives. It works with the endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation and pain, so it can bring much-needed relief.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that fades and relapses in cycles. It could, however, be triggered by sunlight, stress, spicy food, alcohol. The intestinal bacterium Bacillus Oleronius could also provoke an immune response. There are four subtypes, and it manifests as redness, bumps, dry skin, and sensitivity.
The number of benefits that patients with rosacea get from CBD is enormous. CBD helps to calm an overactive immune system which stops the problematic immune system response for rosacea. CBD is also proven to help with stress and anxiety which is a trigger for rosacea.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s Foot is caused by a fungus and usually starts between the toes. People with tight-fitting shoes that cause sweating often fall victim to this condition. Symptoms include itching, burning, stinging, and a scaly rash.
Studies have shown that CBD has both antifungal and antibacterial properties. This means CBD is very useful for treating skin conditions like athlete’s foot.
Cold Sores
Cold sores occur after an infection with the Herpes Simplex virus. It exhibits as fluid-filled tiny lesions usually around the border of the lips. It also causes ulcers, blisters, and rashes. People can pass it through close contact and kissing of infected persons.
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can provide relief for those with cold sores. It brings relief by reducing breakout and rashes.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an immune system condition that could be triggered by stress, infections, or even cold. It manifests as patches of dry, scaly skin that are silvery. It could also be a rash that is itchy or not.
People with psoriasis will find CBD’s anti-anxiety and anti-stress properties useful. This could help prevent triggers. CBD’s antifungal and antimicrobial properties could also help to prevent infections which are another trigger. Topical application of CBD can help with the dry scaly skin for those with psoriasis too.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo occurs as a result of the immune system destroying the cells that give the skin its colour. It manifests as a loss of skin colour in small areas that could merge. It is more noticeable in people with darker skin.
A regular Endocannabinoid system is one of the keys to having normal skin pigment. Although research is still ongoing, CBD has been shown to stimulate melanin content which is excellent for those with vitiligo. It also affects tyrosinase activity.
Sunburn
Sunburn occurs when the skin is overexposed to sunlight or sun lamps. This results in painful, red, and itchy skin that is hot when touched. Repeated sunburns can lead to more severe problems like skin cancer.
Using CBD for sunburn helps by reducing redness and pain. This is a result of CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties. The topical application of a CBD balm, like the one from Hempika, can also give a soothing feel and help to reduce itchiness.
Dry Skin
Dry skin could result from an underlying disease or something as simple as frequent washing of the hands. The result is rough skin that could be scaly or have cracks.
Under production of sebum is one of the reasons for dry skin that is itchy and scaly. CBD helps to balance sebum production in the body. Topical application of a CBD balm can also have a soothing effect for those with dry skin.
Skin Rashes
Skin rashes are a temporary outbreak of blisters or welts that are bumpy, scaly, red, or itchy. They could be due to infections, heat, allergens, and immune system disorders. Diaper Rash, for example, could be a result of food, antibiotics, or wet and infrequently changed nappies.
CBD can provide help for those with skin rashes by tackling the root cause of the problem. CBD has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which are usually the main cause of infections. CBD also provides help for those with rashes coming from allergies as well as helps those with rashes from an immune system disorder by calming the immune system.
Inflammation
In many instances, skin inflammation is an immune system response. It shows that your body is fighting an infection. This results in sensitivity, redness, itchiness, and swelling. Skin inflammation could also be a result of a simple reaction.
CBD is known to have anti-inflammatory properties which provide immediate relief for those with inflammation.
Infections
Skin infections can be caused by viruses, fungus, bacteria, or parasites. Some examples are ringworms, cellulitis, scabies, pimples, and abscesses.
Studies have shown that CBD has both antifungal and antibacterial properties. This means CBD is very useful for skin conditions like athlete’s foot.
How To Use CBD For Skin Disorders
The way to use CBD for skin disorders depends on the product used. Topical CBD products are best for skin conditions, balms, ointments and even CBD oil are great options. You can layer your skin with them before using the cream of your preference. You can also add CBD oil to your creams and lotions.
As with all treatments, it is advisable to check the label when choosing CBD products. It is also advisable to buy your products from a trusted brand. A study in 2017 showed that over 60% of brands mislabeled their CBD. Buying from a trusted brand like Hempika ensures that you get the right CBD products with the right content.
Final Thoughts
Many studies show that CBD is very effective for many skin disorders. There’s more research to be done on the exact processes in some cases and the proper dosages. However, people who use CBD for skin conditions find relief and a noticeable reduction in symptoms.
CBD is beneficial for the human skin and even helps with ageing by having antioxidant properties. The key is to ensure that you get your CBD products from a trusted source.
Frequently Asked Questions About CBD For Skin
Can CBD cause skin problems?
Many studies show that CBD is generally well tolerated and has an excellent safety profile. However, some people are allergic to CBD, although this is very rare. You can first test a patch of skin before full use for safety.
Is CBD cream safe for babies?
As already mentioned, pure CBD has an excellent safety profile in human beings. CBD is safe for babies when applied topically. It is not psychoactive or addictive. Please also ensure that CBD does not interact with your child’s medications.
Does CBD cream help rashes?
Yes, CBD is excellent at providing relief when it comes to rashes. It has anti-inflammatory properties and leads to a reduction in redness and rashes. Using CBD topically is sure to bring relief.
Author: S. O.
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