Top CBD skincare benefits, backed by science

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non‑psychoactive compound found in hemp, has gained attention in recent years for its potential benefits in skin health. Emerging research suggests CBD may help with hydration, sun protection, anti‑aging, and more.

Here’s what the science says — plus how to use it and whether it might be a good addition to your skincare routine.

The research on CBD for skin health

Generally, research suggests that CBD may help promote healthy skin. In a comprehensive review of studies, CBD was found to help with inflammation, wound healing, and more when applied topically. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the benefits of CBD for skin health.

CBD for sun protection

In one study from 2024, researchers looked at the use of nanoparticle‑encapsulated topical CBD cream on human skin. After two weeks of ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, 21% of treated areas had less redness compared with the untreated skin.

The treated areas also showed fewer signs of DNA damage, suggesting CBD may help protect against sun damage and lower skin cancer risk.

CBD for acne

Some research suggests applying CBD to the skin may help reduce sebum, an oil your skin produces that can clog pores and lead to acne.

Another study found that topical CBD may help treat acne by reducing skin oil, lowering inflammation, and promoting skin healing.

CBD for aging skin

One review of research suggests that CBD’s antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory effects may help soothe fine lines, reduce irritation, and strengthen the skin barrier. CBD may also help balance your immune response and support healthy skin cell renewal.

CBD benefits in skin care

CBD offers a variety of therapeutic effects that make it a promising ingredient to add to your skincare routine. Here are some of the most well-documented benefits:

• Offers anti‑inflammatory effects, which can be helpful for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis
• Supports wound‑healing
• Reduces skin itch
• Provides antioxidant properties, which may help prevent skin damage and address signs of aging
• Acts as a treatment to improve acne
• Reduces the appearance of scars
• Protects skin from sunburn and skin damage caused by UV rays

Risks and side effects

Topical CBD is generally well-tolerated, but safety data is limited regarding skin application.

By comparison, systemic CBD use at higher doses can lead to side effects such as:

• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Appetite changes
• Sedation

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also raised concerns regarding CBD use during pregnancy, as well as concerns around long‑term safety and potential drug interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider and perform a patch test before using CBD products on large areas of skin.

Types of CBD skincare products

CBD is now infused into a wide range of skincare products, each designed for different applications and needs. Common product types include:

• Creams and lotions
• Serums and oils
• Balms and salves
• Masks
• Sun‑care products (with or without sunscreen actives)

How to use CBD in skin care

Effectiveness in CBD skin care isn’t only about finding products that contain CBD. It also depends on how the product is made, how strong it is, and how consistently you use it.

To get the most from your CBD-infused skincare routine, follow these steps:

• Choose products that clearly state CBD content, ideally 0.1 % CBD or more.
• Look for nanoparticle‑encapsulated or advanced delivery formats for sun protection. And remember, CBD is not a replacement for SPF.
• Always patch‑test by applying a small amount of the product to a discreet area and checking for any skin reactions. Wait 24 hours before applying more product to other areas.
• Introduce new products gradually while monitoring for irritation or sensitivity.

The bottom line: CBD may support skin health, but more research is needed

CBD shows promise in skin care for moisture retention, sebum regulation, anti‑inflammatory support, and sun protection. While current research findings are compelling, larger studies in humans are needed.

Topical CBD can be a helpful add-on treatment for skin issues, but it’s not a miracle cure. Use cautiously, patch test, and talk with a dermatologist if you take other medications or are pregnant.

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Resources

• Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7023045/
• Cannabidiol adverse effects and toxicity. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7052834/
• Potential of cannabidiol as acne and acne scar treatment: novel insights into molecular pathways of pathophysiological factors. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00403-024-03131-9
• The potential role of cannabidiol in cosmetic dermatology: A literature review. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40257-024-00891-y
• Topical cannabidiol (CBD) in skin pathology – A comprehensive review and prospects for new therapeutic opportunities. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9210160/
• Topical nanoencapsulated cannabidiol cream as an innovative strategy combating UV-a–induced nuclear and mitochondrial DNA injury: A pilot randomized clinical study. https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(24)02490-3/fulltext
• Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) for skin health and disorders. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7736837/