Is your standard drugstore body lotion just not cutting it? CBD is the newest skincare ingredient on the block to give you more bang for your buck, body-wide.
CBD is proving to be incredibly useful when applied on the skin for helping to support physical discomfort due to its interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system. However, before adding any CBD product to your cart, remember not all CBD lotions are made equal.
In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about CBD lotion benefits, how to shop for a high-quality product, and how to use it.
What does CBD Lotion do?
CBD lotion works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in our skin. The ECS plays a key role in maintaining skin health, and when CBD is applied topically, it engages with this system to provide support for various skin concerns. The benefits of CBD lotion are gentle yet effective and extremely user-friendly.
Simply massage the lotion into your skin and allow its effects to unfold, complemented by other skin-nourishing ingredients. This interaction not only targets specific issues but also enhances overall skin wellness.
The endocannabinoid system has the word "cannabinoid" in its name because cannabis helped with its discovery. It turns out, plant-based cannabinoids such as CBD, CBN, CBG, and even THC behave similarly to neurotransmitters that relay messages in the ECS, the endogenous cannabinoids.
The ECS plays an important role in regulating homeostasis (balance) of nervous and immune function. This system consists of three major components:
You can find key members of the ECS (anandamide, CB1 and CB2 receptors, and enzymes) in the brain, reproductive organs, connective tissues, and skin tissues. Therefore, when you apply a CBD product topically, you're activating the ECS directly in the skin.
CBD raises the amount of internally produced cannabinoids and facilitates the binding to receptors. Additionally, CBD blocks the enzymes that breakdown the cannabinoids, keeping them active in the system longer [1]. By using CBD on the skin, it can help to support skin irritation, discomfort, and a normal recovery response where CBD is applied. It performs a wide range of functions from helping to protect us from our environment, hormone regulation, thermoregulation, and informational transmission to the nervous and immune systems [2].
5 Benefits of Using CBD Lotion
1. Hydrate Dry Skin
There's no one cause for dry skin. It can be the result of dehydration, an arid climate, showering in extremely hot water, or irritating skin products.
Other times, dry skin is a symptom of a condition, which can be painful and frustrating to solve. CBD lotion combined with skin-conditioning ingredients rich in essential fatty acids is one of the best ways to gently rehydrate itchy, reddened skin.
If you live in a dry climate or are prone to dry skin, a lotion with ingredients that help protect your skin's natural barrier should be part of your daily routine. Add in a healthy amount of CBD to the formula, and you've got a product with the extra benefits of supporting your ECS for longer-lasting effects.
2. Support Physical Discomfort
Many people have been turning to CBD products to ease physical discomfort naturally. Rather than fussing with doses for CBD oil or capsules, CBD lotion can provide you with the same support directly at the source of soreness.
One of the benefits of applying CBD topically is that it can exert effects right on site due to the many ECS receptors found in the skin, making it perfect for supporting joint mobility and a normal recovery response from strenuous physical activity.
The best way to apply CBD infused lotions is to massage it into the skin for improved absorption of the active ingredients, typically, cbd creams work best for neck pain. Additionally, a gentle massage can help to support healthy circulation, aches, and relaxation, which can go a long way for improving physical discomfort and stress.
3. Replenish Sun-Kissed Skin
Prolonged sun exposure can damage the skin's outer layers by depleting the skin's natural supply of oils and burning skin cells, which can be irritating, uncomfortable, and ultimately, dangerous. The body reacts to this trauma by increasing blood supply to the burned areas to start the healing process. The rush of blood coming up to the surface of the skin can make your skin hot to the touch and red.
While the damage of sun exposure will heal with time, you can apply CBD lotion to your burn to make the healing process more comfortable.CBD has been shown to support health inflammatory function, and the nourishing ingredients found in lotions, such as vegetable glycerin, jojoba oil, and calendula oil, may help to replenish overly sun-kissed skin.
Additionally, CBD has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that may help with supporting the skin's healing process.
4. Support Clear Skin
CBD may be useful for supporting happy, clear skin through several mechanisms.
Breakouts occur when sebum and dead skin cells clog hair follicles. An imbalance of hormones is one of the main reasons for excessive sebum production, allowing for zit-causing bacteria to flourish.
In a 2014 study on CBD's effects on sebocytes (where sebum is produced), researchers found that CBD prevented the overproduction of sebum, through its homeostasis mechanisms [ 3]. Thanks to its properties for supporting a healthy inflammatory response, CBD may help to block redness and swelling.
If your primary reason for using CBD cream is to get clearer looking skin, double check the ingredients. Some CBD lotions contain comedogenic (pore-clogging) ingredients such as coconut oil, beeswax, and palm oil. While these are excellent moisturizing ingredients appropriate for body lotions, they can be too much for the sensitive skin on your face and make the irritation much worse.
5. CBD May Have Anti-Aging Benefits
The best treatment for fine lines and wrinkles is simply, prevention. As we age, our skin loses elastin and collagen that keeps the skin plump and line-free. However, being exposed to free radicals from our environment that lead to damaging oxidative stress, breaking down skin cells.
Antioxidants are compounds that counteract the damage of free-radicals and CBD happens to be a powerful antioxidant [4]. Topical antioxidants are well tolerated on the skin, which is why you'll commonly find vitamin C and E in anti-aging products.
Again, when using CBD lotion for the face, make sure it contains non-comedogenic ingredients to avoid irritation and breakouts.
Benefits of Hemp Lotion
Hemp lotion, much like CBD lotion, is a part of the broader category of topical CBD products. However, it's essential to understand the unique properties and benefits of hemp lotion, particularly for skin care.
Hemp lotion is excellent for the skin due to its rich content in hemp seed oil, which is known for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. Hemp seed oil is packed with essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin. These fatty acids help to reinforce the skin's barrier, improving its ability to retain moisture.
When compared to CBD lotion, hemp lotion primarily differs in its cannabinoid content. While CBD lotions contain cannabidiol (CBD) and sometimes other cannabinoids, hemp lotions primarily utilize the benefits of hemp seed oil. It's important to note that in all CBD lotions, hemp extract is a core ingredient, providing the CBD content. However, hemp lotions focus more on the nutritive and moisturizing benefits of the hemp plant rather than the specific properties of CBD.
To fully appreciate the unique qualities and advantages of each, it's helpful to consider what your skin needs most. Are you looking for deep hydration and nourishment? Hemp lotion might be your go-to. Or are you seeking targeted relief for sensitive or irritated skin? Then CBD lotion could be more suitable. Understanding these nuances can enhance your skincare routine, ensuring you choose the right product for your specific skin needs.
For those interested in exploring this topic further, there's a wealth of information available that delves into the intricate differences between hemp and CBD.
What is CBD Lotion Good For?
CBD lotion works effectively due to its direct application and interaction with the skin's endocannabinoid receptors. Unlike oral CBD products, which need to pass through the digestive system & bloodstream, CBD lotions work more localized and quickly by being absorbed directly into the skin. This targeted approach allows the lotion to address specific areas of discomfort or irritation efficiently.
Easy To Use: CBD lotion's ease of use enhances its effectiveness. It's ready to use straight from the packaging and can be easily applied to the affected area. The simple act of massaging the lotion into the skin can further aid in its absorption and effectiveness.
Covers A Large Surface Area: The formulation of CBD lotions, with their water and vegetable glycerin base, allows for easy spreadability over large areas. This is particularly beneficial for full-body applications, ensuring that the skin is evenly and thoroughly treated.
Directly Delivers CBD To Affected Areas: CBD lotion's ability to be applied directly to specific areas allows for focused relief. The cannabinoids in the lotion interact with the skin’s endocannabinoid receptors, providing targeted support without the need to pass through the digestive system.
Many Options Available: The versatility of CBD lotions, with various formulations designed for different purposes, from supporting clear skin to aiding post-exercise recovery, adds to their effectiveness. This wide range of options means that users can select a lotion tailored to their specific needs.
Long-Lasting: High-quality CBD lotions offer more than just surface hydration. They interact with the skin's endocannabinoid system, supporting the skin in a more comprehensive and lasting way compared to regular lotions.
How Much CBD Lotion Should You Use?
To determine the right amount of CBD lotion to use, start with a pea-sized amount for smaller areas or a dime-sized amount for larger areas. Apply it to the affected area and observe the effects. If necessary, gradually increase the amount until you find the most effective dose for your discomfort. Remember, the right quantity can vary depending on the lotion's CBD concentration and your personal needs.
When buying CBD lotion, consider these key points:
Find The Right CBD Strength
The effects of CBD has been shown to support skin conditions and physical discomforts. However, some manufacturers aren't putting enough CBD into their formulas to yield noticeable results.
Make sure you're using a CBD lotion with enough CBD. As a general rule of thumb, skip products that contain less than 5 mg of CBD per mL, as it might not be strong enough to reap the benefits of CBD. You can calculate this by taking the total CBD content listed on the bottle and dividing it by the product's volume.
5 mg of CBD per mL may be an appropriate amount for conditioning the skin, but if you're using CBD lotion to support physical discomfort, you may want to lean towards a higher CBD concentration.
Look For Third-Party Lab Testing
Even though you're not ingesting topical CBD, it's still important to know the hemp source's quality.
While it's not required, reputable brands send a sample of their product to a non-biased, third-party lab to verify the CBD content and make sure it's free from harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, or solvents (from the extraction process).
Opt For Full Spectrum CBD Extract
Full spectrum hemp extracts contain a diverse range of naturally occurring cannabinoids that compliments the action of CBD. Because of this, full spectrum extracts may feel more potent than CBD isolate-based products and can offer benefits to a broad range of concerns.
Read The Ingredient List
Just because a product contains CBD in it, doesn't automatically make it good for you. Make sure your chosen product's formula contains ingredients that are appropriate for your concerns.
A full-body moisturizer may have intensely hydrating and skin conditioning ingredients that may not be appropriate as a face cream. And if you're looking for a lotion to support physical discomfort, look for a CBD lotion or a cream with warming or cooling ingredients to help with relaxation.
Takeaway: CBD & Hemp Lotion Benefits
With the popularity of CBD ever increasing, there are so many different ways to use CBD. Whether you're looking to support physical discomfort or the condition of your skin naturally, then CBD lotions are worth a shot.
To get the most out of your purchase, you want to make sure you're buying from a reputable brand, are using a product with a high enough CBD potency, and that you are using the product appropriately.
FAQ
Can I use CBD Lotion for pain?
Many people are turning to CBD products to naturally ease physical discomfort. CBD can exert actions right on the skin's ECS receptors, making it perfect for maintaining joint mobility and a normal recovery response after strenuous physical exercise.
Can CBD Lotion make you fail a drug test?
Even if the CBD products contain higher levels of THC, they will not result in a positive drug test. Because the skin is such a good organ at insulating us from our surroundings, cannabinoids applied to the skin do not reach the bloodstream.
Can you use CBD Lotion while breastfeeding?
Since we don't know much about human breast milk and CBD, it's preferable to avoid anything that could harm the baby.
Does CBD Lotion make you relax?
Yes, CBD lotion may promote relaxation and help in alleviating minor aches and discomfort. Its properties can potentially provide a soothing and calming effect, contributing to overall relaxation.
What are the benefits of Hemp Lotion?
Hemp lotion is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and nutrients that can nourish and moisturize the skin. It may also help to soothe inflammation, reduce signs of aging, and improve the skin's overall texture and appearance.
Is Hemp Lotion good for your skin?
Yes, hemp lotion is generally good for your skin. It is known for its moisturizing properties and ability to nourish the skin without clogging pores. It can be suitable for most skin types, providing hydration and improvement in skin health over time.
Does Hemp Lotion Relax You?
While hemp lotion is not specifically designed for relaxation like some CBD products, its moisturizing properties and the soothing effect it has on the skin can contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
Is Hemp Lotion Good?
Hemp lotion is considered good for general skincare. It helps in moisturizing, protecting, and nourishing the skin, making it a healthy choice for daily use.
Is Hemp Lotion good for your face?
Hemp lotion can be good for your face, particularly if you have dry or sensitive skin. Its gentle formula is often suitable for the delicate facial skin, providing hydration without causing irritation.
Does Hemp Lotion have CBD?
Hemp lotion does not typically contain CBD. While both are derived from the hemp plant, hemp lotion usually utilizes hemp seed oil, which does not contain the CBD compound. Instead, it offers the nutritional and moisturizing benefits of the hemp seeds.
Resources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576600/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18424369/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4151231/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/
Disclaimer
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.
