CBD seems to be everywhere these days – in coffee, in cocktails, and in skin care aisles. With medical marijuana and recreational cannabis legal in the majority of the country, everyone is starting to notice the underrated medical and wellness benefits of CBD. Studies show it can help relieve pain and acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory – perfect for a variety of skin concerns. Read on to hear more about why CBD should be part of your skin care routine.
First, what exactly is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the 80 compounds derived from Cannabis sativa. Hemp, a species of Cannabis sativa, has higher amounts of CBD than THC (the other most commonly known psychoactive compound), and most commonly used for skin care. A vast amount of research and studies point to CBD’s pain-killing and anti-inflammatory benefits when applied topically, making it a prime ingredient to help combat a variety of skin conditions. And, in case you were wondering, CBD skin care is legal. In 2014, the government passed the Farm Bill which allowed states to regulate the production of hemp, and just last year, the government updated this bill – hemp production is now legal on a federal level.
Okay, now tell me the benefits of CBD skincare.
So far, studies show the biggest skincare benefit of CBD is its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is the biggest culprit behind every skin condition from acne to aging. CBD can act as a calming agent to soothe and normalize irritated skin. Recent studies have also shown that CBD can decrease the amount of oil your skin produces, which for acne-prone skin, is a welcome relief. Additionally, CBD is packed with antioxidants that can help with signs of aging. As we grow older, our skin loses its collagen and elastin through its natural biological process and environmental elements. CBD’s antioxidant power can help improve skin’s firmness by protecting against free radicals (city dwellers, rejoice), reducing the appearance of fine lines, and slowing collagen breakdown.
What are the best CBD skincare products to use?
One of my favorite CBD skincare brands to use is Code of Harmony. I sell it at Simply Flawless Skin because the company takes a harmonious approach to CBD by mixing it with other essential and nourishing nutrients for healthy skin. Two of my favorite products made by Code of Harmony include the Acid Trip Exfoliating Melt and Chill Gel Masque. Acid Trip pairs naturally occurring AHA acids to even skin tone with an exfoliating agent of super fruit seeds. Milk Thistle and Hemp oil are added to the formula to provide an extra level of hydration. The Chill Gel Masque pairs calming CBD with moisturizing hyaluronic acid in a soothing texture that will leave your skin soft and noticeably plump after just one use. Code of Harmony even suggests “napping for 30 minutes after applying” and I have to agree – a little self-care (and a short nap) goes a long way.