CBD Beauty Products | As Seen in Huffington Post

Dr. Alexandra was recently featured in Huffington Post! Today, she’s expanding upon her insights about CBD-infused skin care, as seen in Does CBD-Infused Skin Care Actually Do Anything For Your Skin?

What are the benefits, if any, of using CBD skin care?

CBD (cannabidiol)  has gained popularity in the beauty industry for its potential benefits. It is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce redness and irritation. CBD is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals and reduce the signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, CBD-infused beauty products often contain hemp seed oil, which is known for its moisturizing properties that can help hydrate the skin without clogging pores, making it suitable for both dry and oily skin types. There are multiple clinical studies showing that CBD oil has the potential to improve various skin conditions. The soothing properties of CBD can potentially help calm the skin and reduce stress-related skin issues, especially for people with sensitive skin. 

CBD can also help regulate sebum production, which benefits those with oily or acne-prone skin. By balancing oil levels, it can prevent clogged pores and breakouts. It helps strengthen the skin barrier, protecting it from environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation and enhancing overall skin health. CBD’s analgesic properties can also relieve pain and discomfort, making it useful in products aimed at reducing muscle soreness and inflammation.

Will CBD skin care get you high? Make you feel relaxed?

CBD products, including those used in beauty and skincare, do not get you high for several reasons. Firstly, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Therefore, using CBD beauty products will not result in any mind-altering effects. Most CBD beauty products are applied topically to the skin and are designed to act on the skin’s surface and surrounding layers. The CBD in these products does not enter the bloodstream in significant amounts, so it does not affect the brain or nervous system in a way that would cause a high.

While topical CBD products do not produce systemic relaxation (affecting the whole body), they can offer localized relief. For instance, CBD creams and balms might reduce inflammation and muscle tension in the area they are applied, leading to a sense of localized relaxation and comfort. The calming and soothing effects on the skin might contribute to overall well-being. For example, if a CBD skincare product alleviates skin irritation or discomfort, you may feel more relaxed and at ease.

Can CBD skin care cause any adverse reactions?

While CBD beauty products are generally considered safe for most people, they can cause adverse reactions in some cases. For one, some individuals may experience skin irritation, redness, or rash from CBD products, particularly if they have sensitive skin or allergies to other ingredients in the product.

Although rare, allergic reactions to CBD or other components in the product, such as fragrances, preservatives, or carrier oils, can occur. Symptoms might include itching, swelling, or hives. Additionally, the purity and quality of CBD products can vary widely. Some products may contain contaminants, such as pesticides, heavy metals, or residual solvents, which can cause adverse reactions. Like with any product, the overuse of any topical product can lead to issues like clogged pores or imbalanced skin, so it is essential to follow the product’s usage instructions and not apply excessive amounts.

To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, start by performing a patch test by applying a small amount to a discrete area of your skin and waiting 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs. Make sure to read the ingredient list carefully to ensure there are no known allergens or irritants for your skin. It’s always recommended to consult with a dermatologist before trying new skincare products, especially if you have sensitive skin. Opt for products from reputable companies that provide transparency about their sourcing, extraction methods, and third-party lab testing.

Do you need to avoid mixing CBD skin care with other CBD or THC products?

Mixing CBD beauty products with other CBD or THC products generally does not pose significant risks. There are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Monitor Total CBD or THC Used

For example, while using multiple CBD products, be aware of the total amount of CBD you consume. The risk of overconsumption is low for topical products since they are not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream. However, if you are also taking oral CBD (like tinctures or edibles), keep track of your overall CBD intake to avoid potential side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or changes in appetite.

Additionally, combining multiple topical CBD products may increase the risk of skin irritation or sensitivity, especially if the products contain other active ingredients like retinoids, acids, or essential oils. Always patch-test new products. It’s important to be mindful of how your skin responds. While CBD itself is unlikely to interact negatively with other CBD products, the other ingredients in these products might. Be cautious when layering products with potentially irritating ingredients and consider using them at different times of the day.

On the other hand, THC is psychoactive, unlike CBD,  which means that using products that contain THC, especially in conjunction with other THC or CBD products, could enhance the psychoactive effects, which might not be desirable in a beauty routine. Be cautious with the dosages and monitor how your body responds. In addition, CBD can potentially modulate the effects of THC, making it either more tolerable or, in some cases, enhancing certain effects. If using both, start with lower doses to understand how they interact in your body. If you choose to combine CBD and THC products, make sure to start slow and with lower doses to gauge your body’s response. Pay close attention to how your skin and body react to the combination of products. If you notice any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

CBD and THC are two of the most well-known compounds found in the cannabis plant. Despite their similar chemical structures, they have distinct differences in their effects and uses. CBD is non-psychoactive in that it does not produce a “high” or any mind-altering effects. It is often used for its potential therapeutic benefits without impacting mental clarity or function. THC, however,  is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes the “high” associated with marijuana use. It affects the brain by binding to cannabinoid receptors, particularly the CB1 receptors in the brain.

Legal Differences

From a legal perspective, CBD is legal in many places. Especially when derived from hemp (a variety of cannabis with less than 0.3% THC). However, regulations vary by country and state, so it’s important to check local laws. THC, on the other hand, is still illegal under federal law in many countries and states, although some regions have legalized it for medicinal or recreational use. The legality of THC is more restricted compared to CBD.

Medical Differences

Medically, CBD is widely used for its potential therapeutic effects, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep. It is also being studied for its potential in treating epilepsy, PTSD, and other conditions. THC is used for its pain-relieving properties. THC  has the ability to reduce many things. This includes, nausea and stimulate appetite, particularly in patients undergoing chemotherapy or those with conditions like AIDS. It is also used for its muscle relaxant properties.

Some side effects that people might experience when using CBD are dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, or fatigue. Generally, CBD can be well tolerated. THC, however, can cause various side effects. This includes euphoria, altered sensory perception, increased heart rate, dry mouth, red eyes, and impaired memory or coordination. It can also cause anxiety or paranoia in some individuals