Our skin is constantly evolving and responding to changes from hormones, aging, sun exposure, stress, and pollution. Even though you can’t control everything that happens to your skin, you can build up your skin’s defense force, which experts call the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Incorporating CBD (cannabidiol) oil into your skincare routine has the potential to enhance the ability of the ECS to fight inflammation. “Promising preclinical studies show that by manipulating the skin’s ECS and receptors with phytocannabinoids [CBD], a variety of skin disorders can be treated,” says Dr. Chin, HiVi’s medical advisor and integrative cannabis physician.
The main reason why eczema and acne cause blotchy, dry skin is because of inflammation and decreased immune response. Sometimes, the ECS can’t come to the rescue because of an immune imbalance, but CBD has a surprisingly useful knack for restoring ECS function.
When applied topically, CBD has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative benefits for the skin.
The beauty industry has welcomed CBD with open arms as a holistic, plant-based solution to itchy, dry skin.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa and hemp plants. Dr. Chin recommends CBD-rich products made with organic, whole-plant extract. These formulas are also called full-spectrum extracts because they contain CBD, terpenes (aromatic compounds), and flavonoids (molecules that act as antioxidants)—all parts of the hemp plant.
Unlike other delivery methods which absorb into the bloodstream, CBD skincare products pass directly to the skin’s ECS and begin working to restore damage from chronic skin inflammation (pimples), oxidative damage (wrinkles), and photodamage (splotchy, dryness).
Particularly in the summer, as we spend more time outdoors, the risk of sunburn increases from UV exposure. The sun is our skin’s best friend and worst enemy. As a natural source of Vitamin D, the sun is good in small doses, but too much can make skin look leathery and dried out.
During outdoorsy trips, it’s easy to overlook the impact of UV exposure in sunny climates and higher altitudes, says Dr. Chin. Indirect sun reflection on water, sand, and snow puts our skin at risk of photodamage.
It’s never too late to slow down oxidative stress from the sun. With an antioxidant boost from CBD, your skin’s ECS has a strong line of defense against chronic inflammation.
Possible CBD Skin Care Benefits
Skincare looks different for everyone, which is why we put together this all-inclusive list of HiVi-approved CBD beauty products.
Below, you’ll find CBD moisturizers, toners, serums, and oils for a wide range of skin ailments. Scroll through to find the one that suits your skincare needs.
For Dry, Burned Skin
CBD has the potential to nourish and quench thirsty skin, according to findings from a small 2019 study in people with psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and acne-prone skin. These conditions leave the skin vulnerable to dryness and flakiness. Add a sunburn on top of those symptoms and your burned skin will practically beg for your attention.
These CBD products are good for hydration and redness:
A toner without alcohol isn’t easy to come by, which is why KANA’s Lotus CBD toner stands out from most. Small but powerful, the 4oz. bottle packs in plant-based ingredients like CBD (for inflammation), lotus oil (with antioxidants), rosemary (hydration), licorice root (brightness), and green tea (protection). You can apply this CBD toner before makeup with a cotton ball, dabbing parts of your face where oil accumulates the most.
A few drops of pure CBD oil is a “chill pill for stressed, textured, or blemish-prone skin,” says skincare brand Blunt. With 100mg CBD, this face oil also comes with rosehip for added protection against scarring. The Vitamin E (tocopherol) boost from safflower seed helps minimize sun damage. A little goes a long way, so pat this oil on sparingly to make the most of it.
If you have dry elbows, feet, or hands, Black Dahlia’s whole-body CBD skin cream is the answer. With a pea-sized dollop, CBD and coconut oil absorb into scaly, rough skin to slow down free radical (cell-damaging molecules) activity. You can also try this skin cream for arthritis-like symptoms in the hands, hips, and feet.
For Tired, Blotchy Skin
“More and more of us live in urban environments where low levels of pollutants are in the air, food, and water as a result of fossil fuels,” says Dr. Chin. This exposure makes skin prone to dryness, inflammation, and oil through pollutant-induced oxidative damage.
Climate, diet, and stress all play a role in skin health, but using CBD could help balance sebum production. If your skin looks tired and oily, try adding these CBD products to your morning or evening routine:
High-strength eye creams, like this 600mg CBD treatment from Saint Jane, are real confidence boosters when sleep isn’t on your side. If you’re juggling school, family, and work responsibilities, this CBD eye cream checks off all the boxes for on-the-go skincare needs. Vitamin E and green tea complement the CBD-forward formula so your skin glows and de-puffs. This cream sets the tone for hydrated, bright skin and gives you a trick up your sleeve on sleepless days.
Undefined Beauty – CBD Glow Serum
For people with oily skin, greasy feeling products are a big no-no. What sets this CBD elixir above the rest is the lightweight texture, which is exactly what you want in a serum. Undefined Beauty describes its CBD Glow Serum as an anti-inflammatory powerhouse. You get to experience plant magic at its finest thanks to a combination of CBD, argan, jojoba, and rose oil. The packaging is also fabulous, which completes the whole glow-up effect.
For Breakouts
The antimicrobial effects of CBD may help with zits, blackheads, and cyst-like acne. Pores are a haven for sebum (oil), bacteria, and immune-triggered inflammation, and CBD can keep all of this in check.
To experience the “entourage effect,” broad and full-spectrum formulas with additional cannabinoids and terpenes may be more effective on acne than isolate CBD. Try these CBD products:
Sustainable brand Kiskanu celebrates whole-plant hemp with its 250mg CBD face oil. The extract is made with organic, cold-pressed oils (preserves antioxidants), lavender (fights infection), and Calendula (heals swelling). The combined effects offer protection against inflammation and bacteria. If you’re looking for an ethical CBD skincare product, you can find that in Kiskanu’s commitment to minimizing package waste. Dab the oil with a Q-Tip on blemishes or massage onto your temples or jaw when you’re tense.
For an afternoon pick-me-up, this CBD Facial Toning Spray is “the Quickie” you need. This pocket-sized spritz bottles in 10mg broad-spectrum CBD, aloe vera (moisturizes), witch hazel (removes oil), and Kakadu plum (brightening). The metal packaging contains a refillable vial so you can reuse and respray without wasting plastic. If you have oily skin, try using an oil blotter then spritzing with TAYLOR + Tess’ CBD toner to refresh your face.
For Supple Skin
Soft, blemish-free skin is an ongoing beauty goal many of us work to achieve. Due to an imbalance in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and stress brought on by environmental triggers, the skin develops bumps, scars, and dry patches. Although this may not be reversible if you’re managing chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, you can use CBD to stay ahead of flare-ups.
Anecdotally, CBD is believed to help with scaly lesions from psoriasis. If you have sensitive skin or simply want a hydration boost, consider trying these CBD products for supple, baby-like skin:
Indulging in CBD bath bombs is one of the best ways to benefit from self-care, and Luna Volta’s celestial-inspired product line transports you to another planet. The EARTH blend swirls together 20mg full-spectrum CBD, lemongrass, and dried Calendula flowers. As you soak in these skin-loving ingredients, you can also find relief from menstrual pain or muscle soreness thanks to CBD’s ability to minimize inflammation.
Cracked elbows and knees will appreciate a little lovin’ from Prima’s R+R Recovery Cream. With 750mg CBD, this lotion is one of the more potent products on this list. The botanical blend is made with the best terpenes for skin therapy: lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, and menthol. Try massaging this CBD lotion on damp skin after a shower or bath to lock moisture into the skin barrier.
For Makeup-Free
Whether you’re short on time or sensitive to cosmetics, deciding to go makeup-free is a freeing choice. Inflamed skin may need a temporary makeup breakup to heal. Go au naturel and replace your cosmetics with these CBD serums:
Ladies looking to splurge can try Muri Lelu’s full-spectrum CBD overnight oil. Made with Indica-dominant hemp, this oil is an after-hours indulgence spiked with terpenes (aromas) from black pepper, bergamot, and nutmeg. Muri Lelu recommends you use this CBD oil before bed to wake up to silky, hydrated skin.
The perfect accompaniment to the Indica oil is Muri Lelu’s sister Sativa serum. With sunscreen, try using the Bloomrise serum for a five-minute face before leaving the house. This botanical blend has a citrus-forward aroma and the power to refine pores, soothe redness, and tighten the skin barrier. Finish out the day with Muri Lelu’s Indica oil and your skin might ask you to put a hold on the makeup for good.
This 750mg broad-spectrum CBD serum from Brown Girl Jane is your secret weapon to getting an effortless glow. The GLOW oil has more antioxidants than Vitamin C and D combined, according to Brown Girl Jane. If your beauty routine is all about simplicity, GLOW is the CBD serum for you. Apply a minimal amount with sunscreen before leaving the house or let the CBD do its magic overnight.
Tips and Tricks
Skincare gurus have a million opinions about the ordering of products, but the truth is this: CBD products are optional. That said, beauty experts generally agree that you should apply thinner textures first, such as toner and serums, then work your way to heavier oils last.
This all comes down to personal preference. Some people may decide to double-up on eye creams and oils or follow an elaborate multi-step ritual, while others may keep it simple with one serum or moisturizer.
A morning skincare routine might be easier to start with a “blank canvas,” as long as you don’t sleep in makeup. Night owls can follow their skin rituals after removing daytime dirt and grim. Again, there’s no one right way to use CBD skincare products.
You should be a conscious consumer, though, by buying hemp products from reputable, ethical brands. Take a few moments to study a brand’s certificate of analysis (CoA), which includes details about potency, hemp source (American-grown is best), and 3rd-party lab results. If you don’t see a CoA, move on to another brand.
The best CBD skincare brands won’t shy away from transparency and instead, proudly display this information for all to see. For more details about reading a CoA, check out this step-by-step guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you find quality CBD skincare products?
Dr. Chin encourages buyers to be mindful of 3rd-party tested brands from reputable and licensed labs. This information is generally found in the product description. The best CBD skincare brands are transparent, informative, and driven by a passion for whole-plant hemp benefits.
How do you use CBD for skin health?
To experience the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antibacterial benefits of CBD beauty products, look for serums, oils, and moisturizers. Depending on your skincare needs, you can apply these morning, evening, and night. CBD moisturizers help with dry skin, while CBD toners restore skin pigmentation and texture.
