CBD and Skin Health

Whether you suffer from a chronic skin condition like acne, psoriasis or eczema, or you overdid it on vacation this summer, CBD products may be able to help ease skin irritation and calm inflammation.

CBD has the potential to interact with your body’s natural endocannabinoid system to help regulate multiple physiological processes, including skin cell growth. Because cannabinoids are anti-inflammatory and cannabinoid receptors are present in human skin, some people may choose to treat the symptoms of some of America’s most common chronic skin ailments with CBD oil.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how CBD oil may be able to help alleviate the symptoms of these skin disorders and help you regain your confidence through clear, glowing skin.

CBD and Psoriasis

Psoriasis is one of the most widespread chronic skin conditions, with The National Psoriasis Foundation reporting that over 8 million Americans suffer from the disease, while worldwide numbers top 125 million people – roughly 3% of the global population. An inflammatory disease with no known cause or cure, psoriasis affects men and women equally, and psoriasis flares may be caused by any number of factors including a cold weather snap or psychological stress.

Psoriasis is generally considered to be a genetic and autoimmune disease, and recent research found that the endocannabinoid system binds with messaging molecules in the immune system to regulate many physiological functions. In fact, the endocannabinoid system does some of your body’s heaviest lifting when it comes to controlling the balance, proliferation, differentiation, tolerance, and death of cells – including skin cells.

For psoriasis sufferers, the inflammation in the skin causes premature maturation of skin cells, leading to pain, redness, and breakage. Since many people find inflammation relief from using CBD oil, it is possible that CBD may help provide treatment for psoriasis at the cellular level.

CBD and Eczema

Eczema – often referred to as dermatitis – is even more commonly seen than psoriasis. In fact, it’s estimated that more than 30% of all Americans will report symptoms in their lifetimes, with children and adolescents being affected most often.

While many kids grow out of eczema, it is possible to have the skin condition throughout your life, and even develop it on sensitive skin areas as you age. Flare-ups may be triggered by abrasive clothing, cold weather, and more, and may have wide-ranging effects on sleep quality and self-confidence. These itchy, painful flare-ups are usually treated by a corticosteroid cream that delivers fast-acting, powerful relief for the symptoms of eczema, however, they also come with some potentially serious side effects. For example, hydrocortisone and betamethasone are both powerful anti-inflammatories, but they can cause skin discoloration, thinning of the skin, and can cause or exacerbate other skin issues like acne.

When eczema flare-up occurs, it’s due to an overactive immune system that is contributing to inflammation in the body. This inflammation may lead to eczema’s typical symptoms, such as itchiness, redness, and irritation. The activation of CB2 receptors may help suppress the overactive immune system forthose who suffer from eczema, as well as helping to soothe symptoms such as itchiness.

CBD and Acne

American consumers spend over $1 billion annually on acne treatments. While the causes of acne are mostly beyond your control, breakouts may be triggered or worsened by stress, diet, hormones, and medications.

Fortunately for acne sufferers, research shows that sebaceous glands and hair follicles that are often at the root of acne problems contain CB1 and CB2 receptors, which communicate with the nervous system to produce different effects. The study also showed that CBD oil’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce the visible inflammation caused by clogged hair follicles, while also supporting cell growth regulation and inhibiting overactive oil production.

CBD and Sunburn

Even if you don’t suffer from a chronic skin condition, chances are you’re planning some fun in the sun this summer! If you forget the sunscreen or just overdo it one day and wind up getting a sunburn, CBD may help.

As you now know, research shows that CBD oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory that also works within the immune system to relieve pain and itching. This is great news for summer sun worshippers who want to lay out by the pool, escape to the beach or just spend the afternoon in the garden. Research shows that CBD can even help prevent infection, and people who have applied CBD oil or CBD infused products to their sunburns have reported a cooling sensation to the area.

A simple way to tackle a sunburn with CBD would be a topical ointment like our CBD Balm. Before application, make sure to wash the area gently and apply the balm in thin layers. We recommend pairing this treatment with an orally ingested product like our CBD oil or CBD Capsules, which research shows may go to work by supporting your endocannabinoid system.

The Bottom Line

While research on the effects of CBD oil on skin conditions is still ongoing, the results we have so far are encouraging! A standardized clinical practice may not be in place yet, it may be worth a try to introduce CBD to your wellness routine when psoriasis, eczema, acne, or sunburn flare-up.

For the best results, try pairing our CBD Balm with our best-selling tincture to treat your skin condition inside and out. Your body’s largest organ will thank you.