CBD in Beauty Products: Helpful or Hype?

Jana G.
2 min readMay 21, 2019

If you’re an avid fan of beauty, you’re no stranger to weird and interesting ingredients found in skincare and makeup. We’re no longer fazed by snail mucin serums, bee venom-infused sheet masks, or bird saliva toners. Because of this, it’s no surprise that the beauty industry has yet again managed to incorporate a new interesting ingredient into its products: CBD, a component of Marijuana.

Lord Jones High CBD Formula Body Lotion

CBD, or Cannabidiol, is more commonly used topically to relieve aches and pain. Not to be confused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it cannot get you high or bring about any psychotropic effects on the mind. Due to the loosening of cannabis laws in the U.S and other parts of the world, more and more studies have been published that support CBD’s skincare claims.

CBD For Acne-Prone and Sensitive Skin

Because of the ingredient’s anti-inflammatory properties, researchers have claimed that CBD can help diminish breakouts, calm inflammation, and reduce redness on the skin. In addition, a study in 2014 also showed that CBD can help regulate oil production, making it a perfect ingredient for oily skin.

CBD For Anti-Aging

CBD can also help fight free-radical damage due to its antioxidant properties. Because of this, it can help alleviate visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, skin dullness, etc.

CBD VS Hemp Seed Oil

What CBD is not, however, is Hemp Seed Oil (AKA Cannabis sativa oil). Many brands advertise their products as CBD-infused but really only contain hemp seed oil. According to Knox Medical’s Manufacturing and Controls Director, hemp seeds contain very, very little, or no CBD at all.

Kiehl’s Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate

It does not contain the same beneficial effects on the skin as you would with pure CBD. Therefore, as consumers, it’s crucial to check the ingredient list of CBD or Cannabis-infused products to see whether they actually contain the prized ingredient.

Despite the good effects this new beauty ingredient claims to do for your skin, it is still a new ingredient. More conclusive scientific research is yet to be done to solidify other people’s claims about CBD. So whether or not you want to try out CBD-infused beauty products, it’s completely under your prerogative. However, it’s important to keep in mind that many other ingredients have the same exact claims and have been around for longer.

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