Buying guide for best CBD skincare
Aches and pains, sleepless nights, and red, inflamed skin — now, more than ever in modern times, consumers are looking for natural ways to calm these common concerns. Innovative skincare brands are offering exciting products that contain a naturally derived ingredient that’s been used for a wide range of medicinal purposes for years — cannabidiol (CBD).
CBD oil comes from cannabinoid compounds found in cannabis plants. Most people automatically think of marijuana when they hear the word cannabis, but the buzz over CBD oil has nothing to do with a psychoactive experience. In fact, the plant extract doesn’t alter your state of mind at all. The only high you’ll get is from the positive results you’re likely to experience from using the latest creams, serums, and oils that contain it. That’s because CBD oil skincare products have been known to enhance skin tone and texture, ease pain, and improve sleep.
There’s a lot of confusion about CBD oil, but we are here to help. We’ve included our research in the shopping guide below to enlighten you about CBD oil and the products that contain it. When you’re ready to give CBD skincare products a try, check out our recommendations.
What is CBD oil?
When you think of cannabis, the first thought that comes to mind is probably marijuana. Although CBD and marijuana come from plants of the same cannabis family, CBD is harvested from hemp plants with zero or only a miniscule amount of THC, which is the chemical that produces a psychoactive experience when smoked or ingested. That’s why it doesn’t make you high to use products that contain it. And because there is no mind-altering effect to using creams, lotions, oils, and serums containing CBD, skincare products that are formulated with this beneficial oil are legal.
Compounds derived from cannabis plants have been used for thousands of years to treat many ailments, but CBD is a more recent discovery. In 1940, researchers found that cannabis plants contain more than 100 cannabidiols, which studies have shown useful in treating and controlling seizures, anxiety, nausea, pain, and symptoms related to numerous diseases, such as those that affect the neurological system. These powerful compounds are also known to be mood boosters, promote relaxation and sleep, and possibly improve cognition.
CBD oil vs. hemp oil
You’ve probably heard about hemp oil, another compound that comes from cannabis plants and has many uses. However, it is not the same as CBD oil. If you’re looking for products that deliver specific benefits and results, it’s important to understand the differences and similarities between the two. Keep in mind that both offer important skin-pampering benefits, but CBD oil is the gold standard.
CBD oil
- Harvested from the blooms and leaves of cannabis plants
- Used for beauty and medicinal purposes
- Can work on pain receptors, reducing discomfort and soothing sore muscles, tension, and more
- Reduces inflammation on the skin and in the body when applied topically
- Moisturizes and brightens skin
- Contains vitamins and nutrients that are important to the skin
- Known to have a calming effect that reduces anxiety, insomnia, and depression
- May boost cognition
- Pricier than hemp oil
- Non-psychoactive
Hemp oil
- Extracted from hemp seeds
- Has industrial uses, including as a biodiesel fuel and lubricant
- Moisturizes skin and conditions hair and is often added to beauty products
- Known to calm skin conditions like rashes and eczema
- Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which may contribute to “good cholesterol” levels
- Can be used for cooking
- Affordable
- Non-psychoactive
CBD skincare features
As you browse CBD skincare products available on today’s market, here are a few features to consider before you choose.
Types
CBD skincare products are available in creams, lotions, oils, and serums. Each form is fairly versatile and can be used on different parts of the body. Even products that are labeled for specific areas, such as facial serums or body lotions, can be applied on other areas with notable results.
Consistency
Although CBD isn’t a heavy substance in any form, creams and lotions tend to be a bit lighter and absorb faster than serums and oils, which typically have thicker consistencies.
"Hemp and marijuana are both in the cannabis family but are actually two different plants. "
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Application
The method you’ll use to apply a CBD skincare product will depend on the type you choose. Brands vary, but oils and serums are commonly found with dropper-like applicators that are built into the lids. While you’ll use your hands to rub in some lotions and creams, others have rollerball tops — think deodorant applicators — so you can apply them to specific areas, like the shoulders, thighs, and forehead.
Other ingredients
Not all CBD skincare products are made exclusively with CBD oil. Some include other skin-loving ingredients, like oatmeal or melatonin, for an added calming boost, and retinoids that target signs of aging. Furthermore, you’ll also find some CBD lotions and serums with a combination of plant-based oils, like avocado or argan, that beautifully moisturize dry skin.
CBD skincare prices
Inexpensive: Not all products contain high-quality CBD oil. For less than $60, you can find some that contain hemp oil, but there are few options available that contain pure CBD oil in this category, and the quality of the ingredients may be questionable.
Mid-range: Lotions and creams typically fall in the middle of the price spectrum, about $60 to $65. However, some good-quality oils are also available in that price range.
Expensive: Serums and oils with the highest-grade CBD oil by top manufacturers are the priciest. They range between $65 and $80 for about 1 to 1.7 ounces.
Did you know?
Did you know that the human body has an endocannabinoid system? It consists of receptors in the body that respond to the cannabidiol and THC compounds in cannabis plants and was discovered when scientists were researching medical marijuana.
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Tips
- Because CBD oil has calming properties that can reduce stress and anxiety, try applying your favorite CBD skincare product before you go to bed to improve both your skin and sleep.
- When applying a CBD skincare product, rub it into the skin evenly and thoroughly. This will help it absorb completely and prevent it from transferring onto clothing.
- Apply a CBD serum, oil, or cream on your face in the morning before applying makeup. Not only will it help your makeup go on smoothly, but it will also provide an all-day calming effect for red, inflamed skin.
- Most CBD skincare oils don’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin, so they can easily be used morning and night.
- Do your muscles get sore and stiff after a workout? Many athletes swear by the anti-inflammatory benefits of rubbing CBD products on their skin after a strenuous workout or long run.
FAQ
Q. Can CBD skincare products be used on all types of skin?
A. Good news: the answer is yes. CBD oil is versatile and can be used regardless of your skin type. That’s because it’s not too heavy for oily skin, doesn’t tend to cause allergic reactions on sensitive skin, and hydrates dry skin.
Q. Can you describe what the scent is like of products that contain CBD?
A. CBD oil itself doesn’t typically have a strong scent, and some users have described it as “earthy” or “herbal.” However, some CBD skincare products may contain other natural fragrances that add to the aroma.
Q. What does it mean if CBD skincare products are “clean”?
A. Clean is always a good thing, especially when it comes to beauty products. When you see the word “clean” in the description, this simply means that the product is made without harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or artificial dyes. In addition, many clean products are also vegan, not tested on animals, and produced in ways that aren’t harmful to humans or animals.
Q. How do creams and serums containing CBD oil help with the appearance of aging skin?
A. CBD oil is rich in vitamins and nutrients that hydrate and nourish skin. It also reduces redness and inflammation caused by sun exposure and air pollution. The result is plumper skin, softer lines, and an overall glow.
