Ever since the legalization of cannabis in some states, for medicinal and other purposes, research on its benefits has taken the beauty industry by storm. There has always been the talk of how beneficial ‘weed’ can be for the skin and body but, up until now, it has always been hearsay.
The majority of the research on the effects of cannabis on the skin have pointed to cannabinoids or CBD. CBD has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. We all know that most of the skin issues we have are as a result of the lack of these two properties. The anti-inflammatory properties in cannabis help to soothe psoriasis and eczema, which can be uncomfortable and challenging to manage.
Cannabis works so well because our bodies have cannabinoid receptors that help it to be absorbed and to work fast, especially when applied to the skin. You don’t have to worry about getting high because, when it is absorbed into the skin, it has no psychoactive effects.
Acne is another skin condition that can be costly and time-consuming to treat. It occurs when the sebaceous gland produces too much sebum that in turn leads to breakouts. The breakouts may also come with swelling and redness. CBD reacts with the receptors in the gland and helps reduce the amount of sebum, which stops the breakouts. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties in cannabis also help to relieve the swelling and redness.
Research has also shown cannabis as a natural anti-aging agent. Hemp has a healthy balance of omega 3 and omega 6, which are responsible for healthy skin. Marijuana is also a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants are essential for the skin because they help to fight free radicals that make skin dull and are also responsible for aging. Applying an oil infused with hemp also allows for better blood circulation, which is also a contributing factor to healthy-looking, glowing skin.
Written by: Winnie Kotieno
