Acne and cannabis

CBD is becoming a popular remedy for a wide range of problems, including common skin disorders like acne.

Acne affects millions of people worldwide. Some figures suggest that the condition affects as many as 9.4 % of the world's population. What's more, acne doesn't just affect the skin. It can have a significant negative impact on patients' self-image and confidence, leading in some cases to anxiety and depression. Even once the acne has disappeared, some patients are left with scars that remind them of their entire life.

Unfortunately, many acne treatments are harsh on the skin or cause other unpleasant side effects. That's why many people are turning to alternative remedies like CBD to relieve their acne.

What causes acne?

People most often associate acne with teenagers, and hormonal changes can indeed be a factor. However, acne can persist into adulthood, and some people experience it for the first time in their twenties or thirties.

The primary cause of acne is a blockage of the skin's sebaceous glands.

The role of the sebaceous glands is to release a substance called sebum. Sebum is a mixture of lipids (fats), and scientists believe it plays a role in protecting the skin.

However, in some people, the skin produces too much sebum, which clogs the glands. When the sebaceous glands become blocked, dead skin cells and bacteria accumulate inside. This triggers an inflammatory reaction, making the skin red, swollen and painful.

Does CBD help acne?

Research has shown that CBD can help relieve acne in several different ways. Firstly, it appears to reduce sebum production in the skin. Secondly, it may help prevent the proliferation of cells that could obstruct the sebaceous glands. Finally, there is evidence of potential anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it could relieve symptoms such as redness and pain.

The science behind CBD and acne symptoms is still in its infancy, and much research still needs to be done.

CBD for acne: how does it work?

CBD exerts many of its effects on the body by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (SEC). SEC is present in most of the body's tissues. It has a regulatory function, meaning that it maintains a state of equilibrium in the body.

The endocannabinoid system is involved in everything from movement to mood. It also plays an essential role in maintaining skin health.

The endocannabinoid system and skin health

In the skin, the ECS is responsible for controlling cell development and growth. It also plays a role in inflammation and hormone production. Scientists believe that ECS dysregulation may contribute to many common skin disorders. These include psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and scleroderma.

The ECS functions by producing chemicals called endocannabinoids. These can bind to receptors called cannabinoid receptors to trigger many different biological reactions. Cannabis compounds such as THC and CBD can also interact with these receptors to have similar effects.

CB1 receptors, the most widespread in the brain and nervous system, react dramatically to THC. This reaction creates the intoxicating effect for which marijuana is most famous. However, the CB2 receptors that are most prevalent in peripheral tissues interact more strongly with CBD. This includes CB2 receptors in the skin.

When CBD acts on these CB2 receptors, it helps regulate ECS in the skin. It is also at CB2 receptors that CBD can manifest some of its potential anti-inflammatory effects. However, CBD also acts outside the ECS, reinforcing its impact on acne problems.

How CBD works outside the SEC

In addition to acting on the endocrine system, CBD acts on what are known as TRP channels. TRP stands for transient receptor potential, and these channels play an important role in sensory perception, including pain.

It also appears that TRP channels interact with CBD to contribute to its effects against acne symptoms. Scientists believe that this reaction stops the overgrowth (proliferation) of sebum-producing cells called sebocytes.

Finally, CBD may have an inhibitory effect on lipid-producing compounds (lipogens). These include testosterone and a chemical called linoleic acid. This triple action (anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferation, anti-lipogenic) makes CBD so promising in reducing acne-related problems.

What you need to know before trying CBD for acne

If an acne sufferer wants to try CBD, there are a few things they need to know first.

The most crucial factor to consider is how to consume CBD. Traditionally, people use CBD in oil form. They place a drop or two under the tongue and wait for it to dissolve for 30-60 seconds, then swallow.

Those looking to use CBD can also buy it in capsule or edibles form. The problem with taking CBD orally is that it has to pass through the digestive system and liver before reaching the skin. This means that much of the product is lost along the way.

A better method, therefore, is to apply CBD directly to the skin. Consumers can use a topical CBD product specifically designed for the skin.

Topical products often contain a range of other soothing ingredients in addition to CBD.

However, some of these products may contain fat or other emollients that could aggravate acne. CBD users should exercise caution when using a new item for the first time. Although most people consider CBD safe, there is always a small risk of side effects.

If a person takes CBD orally, it can cause fatigue, stomach upset or changes in appetite. CBD can also interact with many other drugs and medications. These include antidepressants and macrolides, a class of antibiotics that doctors sometimes prescribe for acne.

People can minimize the risk of these side effects and interactions by applying CBD directly to the skin. Nevertheless, they should test a small area of skin first. Consumers should carefully monitor any reactions such as swelling, itching or peeling skin. If someone experiences these symptoms, they should stop using it immediately.

Choosing a CBD cream for acne

Another thing consumers need to be aware of when buying CBD for acne is that the market is currently unregulated. This lack of regulation means that many companies get away with selling poor-quality CBD. Some products don't contain as much CBD as they should, and others contain contaminants such as pesticides or other toxins.

When choosing a CBD cream for acne, they should look for a well-established company with many positive customer reviews. Most reputable brands publish third-party lab reports on their websites, so customers can be sure exactly what's in each product.

They may also want to know whether their CBD is full-spectrum or isolated, and how the manufacturers extracted it. There are many ways to extract CBD from hemp or cannabis, and most experts consider CO2 extraction to be the best.

Finally, consumers shouldn't buy based on price. High-quality CBD is expensive, but it can be an investment in a person's wellness goals. One advantage of quality CBD is that users generally only need to use a small amount each day. As a result, products should last a while.

CBD for acne: final thoughts

CBD can be useful for a variety of acne-related disorders. It has the potential to reduce inflammation, decrease sebum production and stop cell overgrowth.

What's more, CBD is a substance that works in harmony with the body. As such, it shouldn't cause the irritating side effects that traditional acne treatments can.

However, there are a few things to consider before trying CBD for acne. Firstly, consumers will need to find a high-quality product that is suitable for their skin.

It's also worth noting that most existing research on CBD for acne is still in its infancy. Studies on real human subjects are still sorely lacking. Consequently, there is no guarantee that CBD will be effective, as it impacts each person differently.

Finally, it's advisable to consult a family doctor or dermatologist before trying CBD for acne. This is especially important if they are using other medications or topical treatments. They'll make sure CBD is safe and won't aggravate the situation in the long term.