By Kaia Purcell
Deputy Fashion Editor Kaia Purcell gives us her top tips on how to integrate CBD oil as a powerful addition to our skincare regimen.
Cannabidiol (a.k.a CBD) has taken the skincare industry by storm in recent times with a steady flow of new products containing the hottest ingredient of the moment – an active ingredient from the cannabis plant. The number one question a lot of us have is whether or not CBD is safe to be used on skin firstly, and secondly why would we even bother using it in the first place?
CBD is one of the two active compounds in the cannabis plant, with the other part being THC (the psychoactive component of the plant more commonly known for its ability to make a person feel high). However, the two elements in the cannabis plant vary: CBD does not have this effect on people, but rather possess the benefits of containing antioxidants and having the ability to alleviate anxiety and inflammation – and so is safe for use in an everyday skincare routine without the fear that you will become intoxicated in the A.M. when applying moisturiser.
As a naturally occurring oil that is rich in antioxidants, CBD is known to have many benefits when used in skincare. These include the ability to reduce inflammation of the skin, reducing irritation and redness, and there has also been a lot of hype around the use of CBD infused products for acne and soothing psoriasis. There are a few different options if you’re looking to add this seemingly superhero ingredient to your skincare routine, so let’s break it all down:
- Adding the oil to your own products
Maybe you are happy with the skincare routine you already have, if so you can try adding a couple of drops of CBD oil to your SPF or moisturiser in the morning for an extra boost without changing your products. You can also apply the oil directly to the skin in areas that you feel require a little more attention such as areas of discolouration, redness of breakouts. Percentages of CBD oil strength range from 2.5% to 30% so be sure to ask for advice before purchasing (which you can do at most pharmacies or health stores).
- Buy products that already contain CBD oil
If you want to try out the benefits for yourself, it might be a good idea to pick up products that are infused with CBD oil. There is such a huge variety of products to choose from – from face masks, moisturisers, serums and oils. Holland and Barrett boast a wide range of products from night creams to soap and Revolution released a soothing serum to help combat dry skin using CBD oil. Do a little research online to find products that suit your skincare needs.
- Go to a Dermatologist
Studies show that the benefits of this naturally occurring ingredient has the ability to seriously aid those suffering with acne and psoriasis – however, the strengths of the ingredient in the products available in pharmacies and health stores are mild in relation to what strength and dosage may be required to help with more severe cases. You should always speak with a professional to address issues like this before you begin dabbling in new products yourself.
Trying out new skincare products and trialing new things can be fun and beneficial, however you should always be sure that you’re taking care of your skin in the process. Do a little patch test behind your ear with a new product and introduce new ingredients slowly to allow your skin time to adjust and to avoid overloading it. CBD oil seems to be sticking around for the foreseeable with new products popping up daily. hopefully being armed with a little bit of information will aid us in our skincare endeavours!
