Cannabis oil is a relatively new trendy ingredient in the skincare industry. It’s been surging into huge popularity because of the science-backed benefits of cannabis oil for the skin.
Some evidence suggests that cannabis oil may offer skin moisturizing and nourishing properties. It may also be helpful in a variety of skin conditions like dryness, acne, aging signs, and even some serious conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Now, you might be tempted to add this ingredient to your skincare regimen. Correct, no? And, being a first-timer (if you’re), you must have many questions in mind– what is cannabis oil, is it safe for your skin, what are the benefits, how to use it, and more!
Here, I’m happy to answer all your questions. So, let’s begin:
What is Cannabis Oil?
Cannabis oil is derived from the cannabis plant cannabis sativa, which has been known for its healing properties for millennia. The cannabis plant contains cannabinoids, with CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) being the most popular ones. THC is responsible for the “high” associated with consuming cannabis. On the other hand, CBD has no psychoactive effect at all, making it useful for medicinal and therapeutic purposes.
Cannabis sativa has different varieties, including hemp and marijuana, each containing different levels of cannabinoids. Hemp plants contain far more CBD and almost no THC, which is why hemp is used to extract cannabis oil.
Manufacturers typically use heat to extract CBD from the cannabis plant. CBD is then mixed with a carrier oil, which can be olive oil, coconut oil, MCT oil, castor oil, avocado oil, etc.
Types of Cannabis Oil
The world of cannabis oil can be confusing as companies are creating different types of cannabis oils. It’s important to understand these types so that you buy the right product for your unique skin care needs.
So, here are three main types of cannabis oil:
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate only contains CBD and no other cannabinoids, fatty acids, or terpenes from the cannabis plant. So, it’s a true and pure form of cannabis oil.
All cannabinoids are extracted using the same extraction process. Then, CBD is filtered out and goes through a chilling process called winterization that removes all other chemicals. CBD isolates are generally cheaper and contain not even a tiny trace of THC.
Full Spectrum Cannabis Oil
This is called full-spectrum cannabis oil because it contains CBD and all other cannabinoids (including THC), fatty acids, and terpenes found in the cannabis plant. It’s the full or whole plant extract. While this type of cannabis oil contains THC, it’ll not get you high.
However, full-spectrum cannabis oil combines the benefits of other cannabinoids and chemical compounds. For example, the terpenes in the cannabis plant have naturally occurring anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of other cannabinoids in this oil enhances the overall effectiveness of full-spectrum cannabis oil.
Broad Spectrum Cannabis Oil
Broad-spectrum cannabis oil contains all cannabinoids and other chemical compounds except THC. Like other types of cannabis oil, it also goes through the normal extraction process, and THC is removed in the final stages. So, broad-spectrum cannabis oil neither causes a high nor does it show up on a drug test.
Benefits of Cannabis Oil for Skin
The following information about the benefits of cannabis oil for the skin is based on previous scientific studies. Despite the growing popularity, acceptance, and legalization of cannabis, the field still needs more research work to guarantee its effectiveness in skincare. It’s best to research and consult an expert before using cannabis products.
Now, let’s take a look at the benefits of cannabis oil for the skin:
Moisturizes and Hydrates Your Skin
Our skin naturally produces sebum oil, which is essential to lock moisture into the skin. Sebum oil also protects our skin from UV rays and helps fight free radicals, which can lead to premature aging.
Cannabis oil may help regulate sebum oil production, helping keep your skin hydrated. The oil naturally contains essential fatty acids that help nourish the skin, leaving it radiant, plump, and well-hydrated.
By improving the skin’s natural moisture balance, cannabis oil may reduce the appearance of dry skin and lend it a dewy glow.
Fights Acne
The main causes of acne include:
- Sebum overproduction
- Abnormal shedding of skin cells
- Inflammation
- Growth of Cuibacterium acne bacteria
Recent studies show that cannabis oil may be a very helpful treatment for acne, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties in particular. As mentioned above, CBD’s ability to regulate sebum oil makes it an effective treatment for acne.
Also, CBD’s antifungal and antibacterial properties may protect skin from pore-clogging bacteria or fungi that cause pimples.
Does cannabis oil work for body acne?
Body acne results from the same mechanisms that cause facial acne. So, it’s possible that cannabis oil could help reduce body acne.
These days, skin care product manufacturers use cannabis oil in body washes and soap bars. Although these products may not be intended or marketed for body acne, CBD’s natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may provide benefits.
Can Reduce Signs of Skin Aging
Following are the ways that make cannabis oil a perfect ally in fighting skin aging and looking youthful:
Reduces stress
Chronic stress can cause premature skin aging. Cortisol, which is the main stress hormone, breaks down collagen in your skin. Collagen is the primary protein in our body, and it’s responsible for providing the skin with enough elasticity.
When ingested, cannabis oil helps balance cortisol production by promoting neural regeneration. This further leads to improved behavior and reduced stress. And, good mood keeps wrinkles off your face and makes your skin look youthful.
Improves skin elasticity
Does your skin look saggy, leathery, or wrinkled? It might be because your skin has lost its elasticity, which happens as we age.
Skin elasticity is your skin’s ability to return to its original form after being stretched. The most common causes behind the loss include exposure to UV rays, poor nutrition, smoking, and pollutants.
Regardless of the reason, cannabis oil can help restore your skin’s elasticity. It does so by promoting collagen synthesis, which keeps the skin supple and plump. It may also reduce fine lines and wrinkles, so you can reclaim a smoother, more youthful complexion.
In addition, CBD can reduce the signs of skin aging by combating free radicals (as mentioned above) and improve sleep quality, making you look younger and fresher.
Provides antioxidant protection
Our skin is regularly exposed to harsh environmental stressors like UV (ultraviolet) rays from the sun and pollutants. This speeds up oxidative stress, which causes sunburn and increased damage to skin cells, exacerbating skin pigmentation and aging.
Cannabis oil is a powerful source of antioxidants, which prevent and repair free radicals throughout the body and reduce oxidative stress on the skin. This natural defense mechanism can help combat aging signs, giving you healthier and more youthful skin.
May relieve psoriasis symptoms
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition in which our immune cells become dysregulated, causing red, inflamed patches of skin throughout the body.
Cannabis oil is believed to be effective in the treatment of psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When ingested, CBD can stimulate the secretion and recruitment of immune cells, which remove dead skin cell debris, allowing it to heal properly. However, further scientific research is needed to promise the effectiveness of CBD in psoriasis.
May help with eczema
Eczema (dermatitis) is a skin condition that results in patches of itchy, dry, inflamed skin. CBD can interact with cannabinoid receptors on our skin’s top layer (epidermis). This interaction results in therapeutic skin benefits of cannabis oil, such as skin hydration and reduced itchiness and inflammation. So, you may use cannabis oil to manage symptoms of eczema.
Tips to Buy the Best Quality Cannabis Oil
Are you excited to use cannabis oil for skincare? Wait, you need the best quality product to experience the real benefits of cannabis oil for the skin. So, read our cannabis oil buying guide to make sure you find the high-quality product available on the market:
Research the brand: An increasing number of cannabis brands are surfacing thanks to the growing legalization and popularity of CBD’s therapeutic and medical benefits. But not all brands are equal. So, do research on different brands and choose the one with an excellent reputation for the best quality cannabis products.
Look for third-party testing results: Third-party testing establishes the consistency, purity, and safety of the cannabis oil you’re buying. It also tests things like the potency of cannabinoids and terpene, the presence of heavy metals, herbicides, residual solvents, etc. So, don’t forget to ask for third-party testing results to ensure that you’re buying a safe-to-use product.
Read the label carefully: The label on the packaging of cannabis oil should clearly display the concentration of CBD and other ingredients. Read the ingredients list carefully to ensure the product doesn’t contain harmful chemicals, added fillers, or byproducts.
Watch the CBD strength: It depends on your purpose and experience with CBD products. Beginners should start with lower potency, between 150mg to 300mg. For occasional users, cannabis oil with CBD strength between 450 and 750 mg should work. Finally, experienced users can choose cannabis oil with more than 900 mg CBD strength. I suggest consulting with your doctor or cannabis expert on this.
Read Customer Reviews: Customer reviews provide honest feedback on the quality of the product you’re considering. Previous users can give you a better idea about the oil’s potency, effectiveness, etc., so you can make the right purchase.
How to Use Cannabis Oil for Skin Care?
You can either apply cannabis oil directly to your skin, ingest it, or use topical skincare products, such as creams or lotions, containing the oil.
1. Topical use of cannabis oil
This method can quickly soothe skin irritation or dry patches. Don’t forget to try a patch test to make sure you won’t get an allergic reaction. Directions for the patch test are:
- Wash and dry a small skin area of your upper arm.
- Apply a small amount of cannabis oil.
- Leave it in place for 24 hours.
If you experience redness, itching, or burning, it means you’re sensitive to the oil and shouldn’t use it. Otherwise, the oil is probably safe to use.
2. Oral use of cannabis oil
Some cannabis oil products are intended to be ingested. Oral consumption brings added benefits, and there is less risk of skin irritation, although it may temporarily upset your digestive system.
It’s extremely important to consult with your doctor before taking cannabis oil orally. Ingesting the right dosage is very important for the safe and effective oral use of the oil.
Most Common Questions Regarding the Benefits of Cannabis Oil for Skin (FAQs)
Are hemp seed oil and CBD oil the same?
Hemp seed oil is extracted from the hemp plant’s seeds, while CBD oil comes from the leaves, stalks, and flowers of both hemp and cannabis plants. Both oils have different skin benefits and are used for skin care.
Can I put cannabis oil on my face?
Yes. You can incorporate cannabis oil into your facial care routine by adding a few drops to your creams and lotions. Alternatively, you can use store-bought face creams and serums infused with cannabis oil.
Is cannabis oil good for lips?
Yes. Applying lip balms containing cannabis oil help dry and cracked lips shed dead skin cells and replace them with new, healthy cells.
Is cannabis oil good for the beard?
Yes. Cannabis oil is a rich source of anti-inflammatory properties, essential fatty acids, and vitamins A, D, and E. All of these are good for both skin and hair.
How long does cannabis oil take to absorb?
Different factors, such as your skin condition, genetics, and weight, can affect this. Accordingly, cannabis oil takes between 15 minutes to 2 hours to absorb well.
Does cannabis oil clog pores?
No.
Conclusion
Cannabis oil may be a great addition to your skincare routine. Make sure you choose your product wisely after thorough research and do the allergy test before using it.
Hopefully, I’m able to guide you through the benefits of cannabis oil for the skin. You look beautiful in your skin.
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