CBD definitively authorized for cosmetics by the European Union

It is officially recognized as an anti-oxidant, anti-sebum, moisturizer and skin protector. The CBD - or cannabidiol - extracted from Cannabis has been added to the list of cosmetics approved by the European Union. Until then, Brussels only authorized synthetic CBD in its beauty products. or hemp leaf extracts. From now on, CBD «derived from an extract, tincture or resin of cannabis » will find its way into the bathrooms of 446 million Europeans.

«Now that's the kind of news that makes my day!», the delighted Lorenza Romanese, director of the’European Industrial Hemp Association, the European hemp trade association. Thanks to our hard work, pure, naturally-derived CBD and CBD-containing leaf extracts can now be used in cosmetic products in the European Union.»

EIHA had found itself in a position of strength, after the Court of Justice of the European Union has ruled in favor of CBD. In a ruling handed down in November 2020, the Court ruled that CBD is not a narcotic, and is therefore not subject to international conventions. Moreover, it has « no psychotropic or harmful effects on human health».». Consequence: its trade must be free.

«Untapped market»

The CBD-based beauty products are booming. Several brands have jumped into the breach, taking advantage of a relative legal vacuum. And luxury multinationals such as L'Oréal, Kiehl's and Estee Lauder are also seeking to enter the field. They have commissioned a report assesses the prospects for CBD in cosmetics. «Players will be able to use this report to explore the untapped cosmetic CBD market, and do so to extend their reach and create new sales opportunities.», notes the introduction.

But not everyone is happy about this boom. In 2018, Austria banned all CBD cosmetics. Now, with this new legislation, Austrians will be able to use CBD in their day creams, without any problems.