Acne, inflammation, and signs of aging – these are just a few common skin concerns that plague many people. While there are numerous products on the market, the recent rise of CBD oil has sparked curiosity about its potential benefits for the skin.

What Is CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the hemp plant, a cousin of cannabis. Unlike its psychoactive counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce a “high”. CBD oil is extracted from the hemp plant and diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil or MCT oil.

Benefits of CBD Oil for Skin

The potential benefits of CBD oil for skin care are generating increasing interest, although more research is needed. Here’s a glimpse into what science suggests so far:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: CBD oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful in reducing redness and irritation associated with acne and other inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis^2-4.
• Regulation of oil production: CBD oil may help regulate sebum (oil) production, potentially reducing the appearance of oily skin and the likelihood of breakouts⁵.
• Antioxidant effects: CBD oil’s antioxidant properties may help combat free radical damage, which can contribute to signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines⁶.

Side Effects Of CBD Oil For Skin

Although CBD oil applied topically is generally well tolerated, some people may experience some slight adverse effects from using it. Here is a rundown of the ones that crop up most frequently:

• Irritation: This can manifest as redness, dryness, or itching at the application site. It’s often more likely to occur in people with sensitive skin or those using a product with a high concentration of CBD. Patch testing on a small area of your forearm before applying it to your face can help assess your skin’s sensitivity.
• Dryness: While CBD itself may not necessarily be drying, some CBD oil formulations contain ingredients that can contribute to dryness, especially if you already have dry skin. Look for products that are specifically designed for your skin type or contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
• Breakouts: In rare cases, some people may experience a temporary increase in breakouts, particularly if they’re prone to acne. This is thought to be a purging effect as CBD interacts with the skin’s natural oils. If breakouts persist beyond a few weeks, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Remember: If you experience any discomfort or irritation while using CBD oil for your skin, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist to determine the cause.

How To Use CBD Oil for Skin

CBD oil for the skin typically comes in the form of creams, serums, or balms. Many brands offer CBD acne creams that combine CBD with other acne-fighting ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid. Here’s a general guideline for using CBD oil for skin care:

1. Cleanse your skin: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and makeup before applying the CBD oil product.
2. Apply a small amount: Start with a pea-sized amount of the CBD oil product and massage it gently onto your skin.
3. Patch test: Before applying to your entire face, do a patch test on a small area of your inner arm to check for any allergic reactions.
4. Consistency: For optimal results, use your CBD oil product consistently as directed on the label.

Does CBD Cause Acne?

There’s currently no scientific evidence to suggest that CBD oil itself directly causes acne. However, some CBD oil products may contain comedogenic ingredients (ingredients that can clog pores) that could potentially trigger breakouts. It’s important to choose CBD oil products labeled as non-comedogenic and fragrance-free to minimize this risk.

Conclusion

CBD oil could be a great addition to your skincare routine. There is still more research needed to fully grasp its long-term effects, but its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties indicate potential benefits for handling acne, decreasing inflammation, and supporting overall skin health. It’s always a good idea to check in with your dermatologist before adding CBD oil to your skincare routine, especially if you have any existing skin issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Chesney E, McGuire P, Freeman TP, Strang J, Englund A. Lack of evidence for the effectiveness or safety of over-the-counter cannabidiol  products. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2020; 10: 2045125320954992.
2. Jastrząb A, Gęgotek A, Skrzydlewska E. Cannabidiol Regulates the Expression of Keratinocyte Proteins Involved in the  Inflammation Process through Transcriptional Regulation. Cells 2019; 8. doi:10.3390/cells8080827.
3. Motwani MP, Bennett F, Norris PC, Maini AA, George MJ, Newson J et al. Potent Anti-Inflammatory and Pro-Resolving Effects of Anabasum in a Human Model  of Self-Resolving Acute Inflammation. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2018; 104: 675–686.
4. Ke P, Shao B-Z, Xu Z-Q, Wei W, Han B-Z, Chen X-W et al. Activation of Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Ameliorates DSS-Induced Colitis through  Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome in Macrophages. PLoS One 2016; 11: e0155076.
5. Markovics A, Angyal Á, Tóth KF, Ádám D, Pénzes Z, Magi J et al. GPR119 Is a Potent Regulator of Human Sebocyte Biology. J Invest Dermatol 2020; 140: 1909-1918.e8.
6. Casares L, García V, Garrido-Rodríguez M, Millán E, Collado JA, García-Martín A et al. Cannabidiol induces antioxidant pathways in keratinocytes by targeting BACH1. Redox Biol 2020; 28: 101321.
7. VanDolah HJ, Bauer BA, Mauck KF. Clinicians’ Guide to Cannabidiol and Hemp Oils. Mayo Clin Proc 2019; 94: 1840–1851.