CBD has undoubtedly made a splash in the beauty and cosmetics industry. More consumers than ever are turning to the naturally occurring compound of the Cannabis sativa plant for solutions to a variety of skin-based concerns. CBD is an anti-inflammatory that is delightfully healing, calming and anti-ageing, so logically, the beauty gods have begun to infuse this skincare sensation into an abundance of over-the-counter products.
It may be a defining beauty trend right now, but what is CBD exactly and what does it do for the skin? Could CBD be nothing more than a fleeting trend or is the cannabis compound here to stay, transforming our beautifying techniques forever? Let us take a closer look.
What is CBD?
The cannabis plant contains an abundance of compounds known as cannabinoids. One of the most famous cannabinoids is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the main psychoactive component in cannabis. CBD, or cannabidiol, is another prevalent cannabis compound. CBD, however, is non-psychoactive, yet offers many of the same pain-relieving, inflammation-reducing and relaxation-inducing benefits as THC. Furthermore, there is evidence that CBD is beneficial for the skin and can help treat some conditions such as eczema and acne.
Cannabidiol can be organically extracted from the cannabis plant and is frequently combined with a carrier oil to create a popular product known as CBD oil. Recently, it has become common to see CBD infused into a wider variety of over-the-counter products, including creams, balms, serums, gummies and bath bombs.
Why are CBD-Infused Skincare Products Trending?
We are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of CBD thanks to continuing research. Furthermore, relaxed laws around cannabis has resulted in a spike in CBD use and any controversy surrounding the compound is weakening. CBD is 100% legal in the UK and its effects are non-intoxicating.
As a result, those investing in skincare and beauty products have tapped into the benefits of CBD skincare and the range of available cosmetics to flourish. Not only do we have a range of CBD-infused facial serum and oils, and CBD face creams; there are products such as CBD mascaras and CBD fake tan popping up in shops across the nation. Some spas and salons are even featuring CBD treatments within their menus, from cannabidiol-infused body scrubs and massages, to CBD manicures and pedicures.
What are the Benefits of CBD for the Skin?
From pain relief to soothing dry and hormonal skin, CBD offers a multitude of wellness, skincare and beauty benefits. Studies have shown that cannabidiol has a calming effect on skin cells, reducing rough texture, dull skin tones and redness. Here are some of the key benefits of CBD in skincare.
CBD for Ageing Skin
Cannabidiol is an antioxidant, which means it can counteract damage to skin cells from harmful free radicals and environmental stressors. Toxins, such as pollutants, are some of the key factors in prematurely ageing skin and daily exposure can contribute to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By fighting free radicals. lessening inflammation and hydrating the skin, CBD-infused skincare products can help to reduce wrinkles and improve skin tone, leaving a fresher, youthful and more supple complexion.
CBD is effective as a solo anti-ageing ingredient, but it can also be combined with additional potent ingredients such as retinol for a more intense skin treatment, such as that delivered by Mission C’s deeply hydrating Retinol CBD Moisturiser.
CBD for Acne
Acne-prone skin is often oily with red and inflamed areas. The soothing properties of CBD can calm acne-prone skin which lessens the appearance of those pesky breakouts. There is also some evidence to suggest that CBD can reduce excess sebum production (sebum is the oil secreted by the skin which is overactive in acne-prone skin, often clogging the pores) and fight bacteria on the skin surface, which helps to reduce breakouts.
CBD is also hydrating. Oily skin is often a consequence of dehydration, whereby the skin produces sebum at a greater rate in an effort to combat a lack of moisture. Therefore, CBD may help to balance the oil flow of the skin.
CBD for Dry Skin
The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD can be invaluable for dryness and itchy skin. When applied topically and absorbed into the skin, cannabidiol can soothe, calm and relieve irritation. There are studies to show that CBD may even be helpful in significantly relieving symptoms of common skin problems such as psoriasis and eczema. Furthermore, CBD is suitable for use on people with sensitive skin.
How to Use CBD in Beauty and Skincare
There is an array of options for adding CBD to your beauty routine. You may wish to use a pure CBD facial oil and simply add a few drops to your face or body before applying your favourite moisturiser. Alternatively, you might purchase a CBD-infused moisturiser, serum or scrub and can use these according to the specific instructions on the product. If you wish to inject a little fun into your self-care routine, we recommend trying out a CBD bath bomb for the ultimate relaxation session offering benefits for the whole body.
As with any new skincare product, it is recommended to carry out a patch test first. While CBD is suitable for those with sensitive skin, there is always a risk of irritation.
CBD: More Than a Buzzword
CBD is also proven to relieve stress and anxiety, promote better sleep and lift the mood. This adds to a boost in overall skin health and general well-being, so it comes as no surprise that the benefits are increasingly lapped up by both the younger generation and the more mature. Since CBD is so versatile and its demographic expansive, CBD skincare products have hit the ground running and show no signs of slowing down. With CBD research intensifying and current findings showcasing more than promising results, we believe the best is yet to come.
