CBD (cannabidiol), an active compound extracted from hemp plants, is used by many people to help treat and alleviate the symptoms of a range of skin conditions which could otherwise leave them feeling stressed or even with reduced self-esteem. As a natural product, CBD comes in many forms and can be taken under the tongue as an oil, ingested as an edible or drink, or even vaped.
One such skin condition CBD may help with is acne - which affects many people and whilst associated with teenagers, is actually an inflammatory skin condition that can affect people of any age. It is thought to also run in some families.
Here we take a look at how CBD can help to treat the symptoms of acne, how it works and also the best ways to use and apply CBD to treat acne.
What is acne?
Acne is one of the more common skin conditions we can experience. It is caused by grease-producing glands producing too much sebum, which can then mix with dead skin cells to plug follicles in the skin.
This can result in:
- spotty, painful skin
- inflammation and pus
- oily skin
Typically acne develops mostly on the face, back, chest, upper arms and shoulders.
Acne is not only quite often painful but can be the cause of other challenges, such as social anxiety and reduced self-esteem. It is always recommended to consult with your GP if you are experiencing acne.
Can CBD help acne?
There is evidence suggesting that CBD can be beneficial for acne and other skin conditions. CBD can adjust the way in which our body creates sebum, the oily waxy matter that lubricates the skin and hair of mammals and is created in a tiny gland in the skin.
The glands responsible for creating sebum occur in the greatest number on the scalp and face and whilst sebum helps to protect our skin from the outside world, unfortunately it can mix with dirt, dead skin cells and other pollutants, which leads to clogged pores and in turn acne.
In a study conducted in 2014, scientists summarised that CBD prevents our body from producing too much sebum (the oily matter eventually responsible for acne). This suggests that it would be one solution to try if an individual is struggling with acne symptoms.
Furthermore, in the same study the scientists linked CBD to an anti-inflammatory reaction in cytokines. It prevents inflammatory cytokines from activating, which have been shown to be responsible for triggering acne.
How does CBD work with acne?
CBD interacts with our endocannabinoid system found throughout our body. We have two main receptors (that we know of ) in our body called CB1 and CB2. CBD, unlike THC (the psychoactive compound found in cannabis), interacts indirectly with these receptors. Found in our peripheral and central nervous systems, they are involved in regulating our physiological and cognitive processes.
These same two receptors are found in our sebaceous glands and hair follicles; they communicate with our nervous system to trigger diverse effects like the reduction of inflammation. Products containing CBD have anti-inflammatory characteristics that aid the reduction of inflamed skin caused by clogged follicles.
How can CBD help alleviate acne symptoms?
There are a couple of ways in which CBD can help relieve us of the symptoms associated with acne. Like many health supplements, CBD can be applied in many ways and can serve many purposes.
Anti-inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties associated with CBD could help to reduce potential triggers for skin problems such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. CBD helps to create homeostasis or balance in the body and promotes immunity, which can help to reduce these skin conditions flaring up.
The anti-inflammatory results from CBD help to reduce the appearance of sore or irritated skin and can soothe the skin on contact. CBD can be applied directly to the skin in lotions and balms. However, it is always important to check for extra ingredients in cosmetics that may cause further irritation.
Antioxidant properties
Alongside anti-inflammatory properties CBD has antioxidant properties, which are reportedly more powerful than vitamins C and E (the more commonly known antioxidants). These can help promote overall skin health and are essential to the overall health of our body and our general wellbeing.
Which type of CBD is best for acne?
Taking CBD for acne is simple and as CBD comes in many forms, you benefit from a lot of choice when it comes to deciding where, when and how you take it.
If you aren't already familiar with CBD products you will easily be able to find a large number of options including different concentrations, flavours and types across products including:
- Oils
- Lotions & balms
- Edibles
- Vape liquid and equipment
- Dry herbs, solids and teas
To try and prevent an outbreak
If you are looking for a way to help stem an outbreak of acne or to use as a preventative measure then an edible, capsule or tincture of CBD oil would be a good place to start.
These types of products can be built up in your system over time and used on a regular basis to deal with daily, frequent or chronic conditions. They are simple to include in your daily life and are readily available in many strengths and flavours.
For relief and reduction in redness
If you are seeking relief from acne that can be uncomfortable, painful or sore, or are looking for something to reduce redness, a lotion or balm could be the way to go. These types of cosmetic CBD products are specifically designed to be applied directly to the skin allowing the CBD to soak directly into the place where it is needed.
Be sure to choose a product free from other oils or ingredients that may cause unwanted irritation to your skin. When considering using CBD for acne, know that whatever your individual needs, there will be a number of products available to try and judge the effects.
Does it work for acne scars?
CBD has been shown to help promote healing and can help to reduce scar formation. Taking CBD either as a supplement or as an edible helps aid our healing process, but can not rid us of pre-existing scars.
Luckily there are some high quality CBD products that are designed to be applied directly to the skin which can help reduce the appearance of scars, but it is important to note that results can vary depending on the severity of scarring.
Many products also have an abundance of essential oils, minerals and other ingredients that are great for our skin and work harmoniously alongside CBD.
How to apply cbd oil to skin
CBD cosmetic products are used in much the same way as the other cosmetic creams, balms and lotions that you may be used to.
To ensure that you are using a product correctly, always read the manufacturers instructions and guidelines that come along with the product. These can include recommendations such as whether to apply liberally or sparingly, twice daily or once nightly etc.
Be sure to always read the guidelines, do not exceed the recommended dosage and consult your GP or doctor if your symptoms persist.
Benefits of CBD oil in skincare
Cosmetic products are forever improving and companies are seeking quality natural ingredients to help enhance and improve their products. Naturally, CBD has made its way onto the cosmetic scene. CBD is a legal and safe supplement, which is easy to use in food, cosmetics and for things like vape pens and teas.
CBD can be easily incorporated into cosmetics with very little effort; it causes no detriment to the products and only adds benefits. Do remember that it isn’t only CBD cosmetics that can help acne; it can also be beneficial to use CBD supplements or edibles to help with symptoms.
Other skin problems can benefit from the use of CBD cosmetics, supplements and edibles. CBD helps treat the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis in much the same way it does for acne - it adjusts the way our body creates sebum, it creates internal homeostasis and reduces stress and in turn increases wellbeing,
CBD is a great product not only for sufferers of skin problems, but using CBD in cosmetics can also help aid symptoms of other illnesses and ailments.
Contact our team today
If you have a question on any of our CBD products, don’t hesitate to get in touch, Our team is passionate about CBD and very knowledgeable on all of our products.
Email: [email protected] (24/7/365)Phone: Mon-Fri, 10am - 4.00pm
Phone orders: 01626 903101
General enquiries: 01626 903102
Disclaimer: Please note that you must be 18 years or older to purchase CBD products. All claims and effects of CBD have been regulated by the MHRA since 2016 and distributors require a license from the MHRA to make any medical claims. Claims are opinion based and non-scientific, and while we may discuss the opinions people share, they are not our own. Our CBD is not intended to treat, cure or prevent disease. Although we can advocate its calming & healthy properties it is in no way intended for medicinal use.
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