People who are looking for a more natural way to combat pain often use cannabidiol (CBD) topicals. The simple act of lathering CBD creams or lotions to specific areas of the body that are experiencing discomfort can provide the relief needed from inflammation, arthritis, or an injury.
But CBD’s application goes beyond pain relief. More and more consumers are including CBD as part of their skincare regimen, hoping to slow the hands of time and keep the skin looking younger for longer.
Thanks to the antioxidant properties of CBD, this cannabinoid may be effective at reducing the visible signs of aging in the skin by countering the damaging effects of free radicals.[1,2]
Oxidative stress can occur in the skin, whereby an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants develops. Free radicals wreak havoc in the body and cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA.[2]
But with the application of CBD topicals, the antioxidants within can counteract the damaging effects of free radicals, thereby helping the skin to retain its youthful glow.
And not only can CBD be effective at promoting younger-looking skin and fighting the signs of aging, it may also be effective at treating various skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, dermatologists have recommended topical CBD for the treatment of these conditions, in addition to traditional therapies.
Further, CBD oil can help diminish the effects of acne by reducing the production of sebum, an oily substance that can help keep the skin moisturized. Overproduction of sebum can lead to clogged pores, and, when mixed with bacteria, acne can develop.[3]
By reducing the amount of sebum produced and fighting bacteria, thanks to CBD’s antibacterial properties, the cannabinoid may be an effective supplement to traditional acne medications.
There are plenty of anti-aging skin products on the market, many of which make bold promises to keep the skin looking more youthful. But CBD topicals may be a promising addition to an anti-aging skincare regimen thanks to its healing properties.
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References
- Booz GW. Cannabidiol as an emergent therapeutic strategy for lessening the impact of inflammation on oxidative stress. Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 2011;51(5):1054-1061.
- Pham-Huy LA, et al. Free radicals, antioxidants in disease and health. International Journal of Biomedical Science. 2008;4(2):89-96.
- Oláh A, et al. Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes. Journal of Clinical Investigation. 2014;124(9):3713-3724.
