We’ve all come across the term “Cannabis” as a natural ingredient. But what exactly is it? And how have we ended up talking about Cannabis in skincare? Let’s break it down!
What is Cannabis or CBD?
Since its discovery, Cannabis has been used for its medicinal qualities as well as recreational purposes. It is one of the 5 sacred plants mentioned in Ayurveda, owing to its countless medicinal and nutritional properties. Cannabis preparations were used to treat skin rashes, inflammatory conditions like eczema and psoriasis to acne. This is primarily due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-bacterial properties. With advancements in science, we are just beginning to understand how they actually work on our skin and within our bodies.
While CBD is a fairly new term for quite a few of us, it’s become increasingly popular thanks to it being a natural remedy for a host of modern day problems. Proponents for CBD staunchly vouch for its abilities to help alleviate a wide spectrum of symptoms, so it’s a given that a lot of people can’t seem to get enough of this non-intoxicating cannabis extract.
CBD oil is made from the leaves, flowers, and stalk of the Cannabis sativa plant- the only part of the plant where you can find Cannabidiol.
While there is plenty of awareness about skincare, there isn’t that much literature going around that highlights the importance of incorporating a CBD-based skincare product.
What are the benefits of Cannabis (CBD) in skincare?
Adding CBD to your skincare regimen will give several added benefits. These include the following:
1. No More Skin Breakouts
Nobody wants an acne attack. Millions of people unfortunately are affected by acne every year. Research has shown that CBD may calm the activity of sebocytes, the cells that produce oily, waxy sebum that when produced in large amounts causes acne.
Using CBD-based products such as oils and lotions on your skin can help you avoid these breakouts. CBD products ensure that essential fatty acids that are present in your skin pores lubricate the skin regularly, thereby preventing a breakout.
Furthermore, CBD has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that help your body fight acne and clear your skin.
Read more about ingredients that do wonders for your acne here.
2. Say Goodbye to Itching
Itching in public is embarrassing. Unfortunately for many, this condition exists and many avoid stepping out. While itching is embarrassing, constantly scratching a spot can be painful. Constant itching can result in bleeding and inflammation of the affected region.
Itchy skin patches are caused by a skin condition called eczema. People with eczema have rashes, skin irritation, and constant itching. While there has been a lot of R&D in the recent past to treat this condition, it wasn’t so easy for these patients. Earlier, they only had cortisone-based creams. However, these creams may or may not work for an individual, which is why they need to look at an alternative - in this case, CBD-based skincare products.
The right CBD products hydrate your skin, and their anti-inflammatory properties ensure that the rashes and itching come down. However, do note that you may have to find the right CBD-based product that suits your skin tone. We recommend that you don’t give up on the CBD immediately, as the healing process takes time.
3. Say Hello To New Skin Cells
A research paper published that addressed the correlation between CBD, the body’s cannabinoid receptors, and our skins. Through extensive R&D, scientists were able to conclude that putting CBD in the human body increases the ability to produce more skin cells, thereby boosting the regenerative process and slowing down the ageing process.
How to use Cannabis (CBD) and what products does it work well with?
Cannabis and CBD based skincare products are available in forms of face oils, serums and balms predominantly. They are also available as moisturisers or body oils.
It’s super versatile and you can incorporate them into your AM/PM routine both!
We recommend using any cannabis-based products for at least 3 months to observe material effects on your skin.
Who can use Cannabis or CBD?
CBD is well tolerated in humans and is suitable for all skin types and all ages. It can be especially useful if you suffer from dry skin, acne-prone skin, or skin inflammation.
Please note you will not get “high” by applying cannabis and CBD based skincare products on your skin. It is simply for topical application!
Some of our Cannis favourites
Why we love it:
A dry and acne-prone skin wonder, this daily facial oil not only hydrates and, but also reduces infections from dirt and other pollutants, all without clogging the pores! Mixed with other wonderful oils such as Hemp Seed, Nutmeg, Olive Oil, it even works on dark spots, uneven skin tone and peeling issues! Truly an antifungal and antioxidant wonder.
Why we love it:
Calling all sports enthusiasts and athletes - we have the perfect enhanced recovery solution for your muscles and joins. This pain-relieving oil treats aches and muscle injuries, and relaxes them while reducing inflammation. Say goodbye to stiffness or pain! Simply apply it on the affected area and massage in until absorbed.
Tips to find the most effective and authentic Cannabis product
A well formulated Cannabis-based skincare product is absolutely safe. Like any new skincare product, we recommend doing a small patch test before to ensure you are not allergic to it.
Though there are several products available in the market, it always pays to be a little careful. Due to its growing popularity, several bootleg products are now flooding the market, whose label claims may not exactly meet what’s in the bottle. Ideally, look for brands that have experience in life science, and the cosmetic industry. They will always ensure what you’re getting is a 100% legitimate product, like the one by Oreka. Additionally, you can ask for lab test reports from the brands, they should have one for each batch manufactured.
Conclusion
Owing to the countless benefits offered by CBD from preventing acne to its anti-aging effects on the skin, CBD and cannabis based skincare products have taken the world by storm. CBD was even named the No. 1 trending ingredient in the world by Loreal in 2020. So what are you waiting for? Give this ancient herb a try for your daily skincare routine. We promise you, you’ll be thanking us!
- Varun Rungta, CEO Oreka in collaboration with Sublime Life
