Why use CBD in your Skincare Routine?

Capsules, gummies, candles, tinctures... the list goes on. CBD can be found in many forms but the use of CBD in skincare routines has been on trend in recent years. Gone are the days where a stigma was attached to CBD products due to their links with cannabis. With celebrities such as Claudia Winkleman, Kim Kardashian, David Beckham, Whoopi Goldberg, Gwyneth Paltrow.... to name but a few - there really is a case building for the use of CBD products.

What's more is the Pandemic saw a phenomenal spike of interest in the natural products category, with CBD being at the forefront of the glory. Although CBD brands need to tread carefully when talking about the health benefits and side effects of taking CBD products, there is growing research in to the topic.

What is cannabidiol?

To delve in to the benefits of CBD products and their applications as a skincare regime, we need to understand the basics...

Cannabidiol is one of many cannabinoids found in the hemp and cannabis plant. It is sometimes confused with marijuana, however cannabidiol and CBD use differs as it is does not contain the THC extract, which is the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis and the hemp plant. 

The distinction between cannabis and hemp is that hemp has extremely low levels of THC, which is why the CBD used in our i-Cann range comes from hemp, not cannabis. CBD is becoming increasingly popular in many forms, including CBD oil, CBD supplements such as capsules, CBD gummies, and CBD skincare. 

Cannabidiol has already been medically approved to treat seizures which are one of the side effects of epilepsy, and is becoming increasingly available on the NHS in the UK to treat some forms of epilepsy - Epidiolex is one of the first to market. Cannabidiol is a popular treatment due to the fact that it does not contain THC, so is not euphoric or impairing. The reasons as to why cannabidiol is so effective in reducing seizures in those who suffer from epilepsy comes down to the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

So why use CBD skin care?

It is thought that cannabidiol interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS) leading to reduced inflammation, which in turn may relieve pain. The ECS was identified around 30 years ago when it was found to be essential for regulating some important bodily processes including sleep, memory, appetite, pain sensation and mood. The ECS does this by releasing natural endo-cannabinoids, or neurotransmitters, into the body to restore balance when a health issue develops.

There are two main endocannabinoids: anandamide and 2-AG. These endocannabinoids communicate with your body by attaching to the cannabinoid receptors on your cells. They can then do their job and help to regulate the bodily processes that need it. Once they have done this, special enzymes break down the used endocannabinoids. 

Is cannabidiol legal?

The i-Cann range is made from hemp, not cannabis which means that our CBD products are perfectly legal. It is a requirement that CBD products contain less than 0.2% of THC. As CBD-infused products that are produced with purified CBD isolate, rather than broad-spectrum or full-spectrum, it contains no THC, which is the illegal cannabinoid is found in marijuana.

What does CBD skincare do?

There are variety of applications and benefits for introducing CBD into your daily regime. We've broken down some of them below:

Acne:

The anti-inflammatory and oil-balancing properties of cannabidiol are linked to reducing the appearance of acne. Cannabidiol's ability to support those who are suffering from adult acne is largely due to its potential antibacterial and antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to reduce inflammation. These traits are a fantastic tool in fighting the causes of adult acne, in addition to a range of other ailments such as psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema.

One study found that cannabidiol had a positive effect on human skin and its oil-producing glands. It found that the cannabidiol had the ability to reduce oil production, which is the leading cause for acne. That with its ability to reduce inflammation makes a product like i-Cann's moisturising CBD face cream a great addition to your skincare regime if you're looking to combat adult acne or similar skin problems.

It's also worth noting the calming effects that cannabidiol can offer, can reduce the occurrence of stress-related spots. In addition to topicals, introducing a CBD oil can go a long way in managing stress levels. Take a look at our blog on self-care for more tips.

Signs of ageing:

Just like other powerful antioxidants, CBD can fight visible signs of aging. The topical application of CBD can ease inflammation and counteract free-radical damage to the skin, reducing wrinkles, ruddy skin tone, and dullness as well as reducing aging signs.

There is also the option of trying a CBD infused massage oil, such as i-cann Rest & Repair CBD massage oil  as you can still get some benefits from the CBD through your skin. It has a light texture and absorbs really well, leaving your skin soft, healthy and youthful. The cannabinoids in the CBD massage oil help to reduce inflammation and soothe muscles.

The oil hydrates your skin by protecting the barrier and retaining moisture, whilst the cannabidiol promotes the skin's elasticity. It can be applied all over your body, which often gets left behind in the treatment of anti-aging!

Dryness and itching:

Hemp oil is widely accepted for its health benefits that improve skin health. Its hydrating properties are a game-changer, whilst also preventing clogged pores. 

Dry skin is often due to your skin's overproduction of oil. Not only can CBD products like our i-Cann body lotion moisturise your skin, it can regulate the skin's oil production. Other key ingredients in our CBD body lotion can assist with dryness and itching. Aloe vera is a known ingredient for its ability to moisturise and hydrate dry skin, whilst also soothing sensitive skin.

What the experts say....

Don't take our word for it. We've been working with an expert on the topic. Dr Naomi Newman-Beinart, PhD is a Nutritionist(BSc) & Chartered Psychologist (PhD). She says:

Is CBD skin care safe?

Choosing the right CBD brand is pivotal in ensuring that you are purchasing a CBD product that has been produced to the required standards. Here at i-Cann, product safety is paramount. We manufacture our own products at an EU GMP pharma-grade facility right here in the UK. We are specialists in the manufacture of CBD and cannabis related products, so you can rest assured that all our products go above and beyond the industry standard for quality and safety.

Should I use CBD everyday?

In order to feel the full effects from CBD skincare products, it is recommended to apply them on a daily basis. It is advised that you do not exceed the recommended dose of 70mg per day.