Thank the scientists who discovered CBD in the 1940s and began studying the the health benefits of very low THC strains of marijuana. They discovered CBD’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and that CBD use does not cause an altered mental state. Initially used to treat pain and anxiety, the oil is ending up in some of today’s trendiest beauty lotions and potions. That should come as no surprise since dermatologists regard inflammation as the root of all evil, whether that’s acne or the signs of aging. CBD has evolved into a bona fide skin and health care trend.
CBD, which is short for cannabidiol, is extracted from the cannabis sativa plant. It will not get you stoned. That’s left up to another well-known cannabis sativa extract, psychoactive THC.
Anti-inflammatory Oil Relieves Soreness
The pain-killing properties of CBD give welcome relief for sore muscles and aching joints both before and after workouts. Smooth on a rub infused with CBD and the balm acts only on the area of skin where you apply it.
Beyond its effectiveness as a temporary topical pain reliever, research on CBD’s potency in skin care is still relatively scant. There’s considerably more data on mainstay skin care ingredients like retinols and vitamin C. Nevertheless, as scientists find evidence that CBD can treat dry skin, psoriasis, and eczema, the oil has begun appearing in face creams, serums, soaps and more.
New Weapon Against Acne Fights Oil
It appears CBD might be the newest non-steroidal weapon in the fight against acne. A 2014 study found that CBD helps suppress breakouts by decreasing oil production of the sebaceous glands when applied topically. If CBD can control inflammation and oil production, it would treat two parts of acne-lesion formation. That’s significant because skin doctors must rely on retinoids for that one-two punch, and treatment with retinoids initially causes more inflammation, redness, dryness, and peeling.
There’s evidence the potent CBD anti-inflammatory works on neuroreceptors to boost serotonin levels and reduce anxiety. Consuming CBD edibles and drinks to counter anxiety won’t get you high, but fans say it’s calming effects are noticeable.
Brands such as Vertly, Flora + Bast, and Lord Jones are putting a luxe spin on hemp seed oil offerings. Retailers like CVS and Walgreens are following the lead of Barneys New York, which launched an upscale cannabis lifestyle shop in Beverly Hills.
Walgreens announced plans to sell CBD creams, patches and sprays in nearly 1,500 stores in select states. Rival drugstore chain CVS introduced cannabis-based topical creams and oils to stores in eight states in March.