CBD for Skin Care 101: A Detailed Guide

Cannabidiol (CBD) seems to be in everything lately, including skin-care products like sunscreens, masks, lip balms, moisturizers, and more.

While there is some evidence that CBD may have beneficial effects on skin issues like eczema, acne, and aging skin, more research needs to be done to confirm a clear connection.

Here’s what we know so far about CBD’s potential as a skin-care solution.

CBD is primarily included in skin-care products for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, says Hannah Kopelman, DO, a dermatologist in Edgewater, New Jersey. “Many patients find that CBD-infused products help soothe irritation, calm redness, and maintain hydration. While the anecdotal feedback is often positive, I always emphasize that we’re still waiting on more definitive clinical studies to fully confirm these skin-care benefits.”

Research on CBD in skin care is ongoing. In the meantime, there is some evidence to support its positive effects on the following skin complaints:

Inflammation, Eczema, and Psoriasis

Topical products containing CBD may have a positive effect on the skin simply because many come in cream form along with other helpful ingredients. This makes it hard to conclude that the CBD itself is what is making an impact, especially given that moisturizers in general tend to have a positive effect on psoriasis.

Acne

A number of things can cause acne, but the result is commonly an inflamed bump on the skin due to sebum, dead skin, and bacteria buildup within pores.

CBD might be helpful in treating acne because there is evidence that it can help reduce inflammation and impact sebum production, and that it has antibacterial properties.

Wrinkles and Aging

Some evidence suggests that CBD may help reduce wrinkles and even prevent them.

“CBD has made its way into many skin-care products, including face oils, serums, moisturizers, masks, and even sunscreens,” says Heather D. Rogers, MD, a dermatologist in Seattle. “It’s often marketed for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, but the actual benefits remain largely unproven in well-designed clinical studies.”

Here are some products that contain CBD:

• Face oils are typically used to nourish and lock moisture into the skin, especially in dry and dehydrated skin.
• Serums are lightweight water- or oil-based liquids with concentrated ingredients to address specific skin concerns like dryness, uneven tone, or dullness.
• Moisturizers help keep skin hydrated and comfortable by supporting its natural barrier, and they are available as creams, lotions, serums, or gels.
• Masks provide a targeted treatment for the skin and are often used to refresh, hydrate, or clarify.
• Sunscreens are designed to protect the skin from ultraviolet light exposure and come in various formulations for different skin types.

Rogers and Kopelman advise their patients to steer clear of CBD-containing products if they’re pregnant.

“Right now, we just don’t have enough data on CBD’s safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding,” Kopelman says.” Until we know more about absorption and potential effects on fetal development, I prefer to recommend skin-care products with well-established safety profiles during pregnancy.”

For now, CBD products are generally considered safe, and early research suggests that they may make a positive difference in how your skin looks and feels. Just don’t count on them to be a cure-all for any skin condition. In other words, talk to your dermatologist before replacing other products or treating any skin conditions with CBD products. If you’re interested in venturing into CBD skin care, here’s what you need to know before you buy and try, according to dermatologists:

Tips for Use

Since CBD products vary, be sure to check the directions for use and any warnings. Also, be sure to:

• Start slowly. “Typically, I advise choosing a gentle product like a CBD-infused moisturizer or facial oil first, since these stay on the skin and allow you to monitor reactions closely. I tell patients to patch-test the product on a small area for a few days before applying it more broadly,” Kopelman says.
• Avoid mixing strong ingredients. “I encourage patients to avoid combining CBD products initially with other strong active ingredients like retinol or acids, as mixing too many active ingredients at once can increase the risk of irritation,” Kopelman says.
• Look for third-party testing. “I’d recommend starting with a simple product like a moisturizer or face oil from a reputable brand with clear third-party testing,” Rogers says. You can look for a certificate of analysis on the bottle, which indicates third-party testing. For an extra layer of protection, you can check the FDA’s web page for warning letters issued to brands for deceptive labeling.

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• Know your local laws. While CBD is legal at the federal level in the United States, it is not legal in every state. It’s smart to know where your state stands before purchasing CBD-containing products.

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If you have a skin condition or sensitive skin, ask your doctor if they recommend that you try CBD skin-care products.

• CBD is found in many skin-care products including creams, oils, sunscreens, masks, and more.
• Though research is still emerging, there are positive signs that CBD may be effective for treating skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and fine lines.
• CBD that contains less than 0.3 percent THC is legal to purchase in most U.S. states, and using CBD on the skin is generally considered safe.