ATTACKING ACNE WITH CANNABIDIOL

ATTACKING ACNE WITH CANNABIDIOL

Acne is one of the commonest skin conditions. It might come in the form of whiteheads or blackheads that never seem to end, leaving scars and spots that constantly remind a person of the condition. Following the many people affected by acne, there is a need to fight this skin problem. How can you attack acne with CBD? Peer into this article to know all you need about CBD and acne.

What Is Cannabidiol?

It is one of the cannabinoids or active compounds in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, an equally abundant cannabinoid, CBD does not cause the ‘high’ effect as it lacks psychoactive properties. CBD comes in gummies, oils, tinctures, massage oils, shampoos, serums, patches, balms, capsules, softgels, skin gels, and vapes. What’s more, you can enjoy almost each of the products above in the following three formulations;

Full-spectrum CBD

This CBD type comprises CBD, THC, and all other cannabinoids in cannabis plants, terpenes, and flavonoids and is linked to the full entourage effect because of the many compounds.

Broad-spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum CBD is also linked to a full entourage effect since it has multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, although it does not have the psychoactive THC.

Isolate CBD

This formulation is pure CBD, without terpenes, flavonoids, or additional cannabinoids. Although it is not linked to the full entourage effect, it makes a good alternative for those starting on a CBD regimen.

What Is Acne?

It refers to a common skin condition that causes the appearance of pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads mostly on the face but can also affect the back and other areas. Although commonly linked to adolescents, acne can affect people past puberty and extend well into adulthood. Acne can be painful, especially when it causes fresh wounds and one scratches them. Acne is caused or exacerbated by bacteria, including A. Vulgaris, but poor hygiene, diet, and stress may worsen. Common acne treatment methods include ointments and painkillers, especially when the acne causes pain. However, as usual, not everyone finds relief in these treatment methods, so people seek alternative treatment methods, CBD being one.

Can CBD Heal or Treat Acne?

If you have suffered from acne before or on a breakout occasion, you might naturally wonder if you should expect some relief with CBD. Sadly, there is insufficient evidence to prove CBD can treat or heal acne, and it’s not recommended. However, studies show that CBD may help a person manage acne.

CBD for Lowering Sebum Production

Sebum is an oily substance produced to keep the skin moisturized. However, when there is too much sebum secretion, one experiences breakouts and acne. Can CBD help with sebum? Olah et al. (2014) conducted a study on the effect of CBD on sebum production. They concluded that the cannabinoid influences sebocytes and sebum-producing cells and limits them from producing sebum. It might help attack acne, although more studies are needed to prove this right.

CBD for Fighting Infections that Worsen Acne

acne results in fresh wounds; they can easily be attacked by antibacterial and antifungal infections, worsening the situation. Can CBD help with infections? Likely, but more studies are needed to prove this right. Andre et al. (2016) commented that CBD has antifungal and antibacterial properties that fight infections that would otherwise make the condition worse. Still, we need more studies to prove that CBD can fight infections.

 CBD for Healing Scars from Acne

Acne can leave scars that constantly remind a person of what he suffered from. Can CBD help with this? Stella et al. (2019) noted that CBD could help heal the scars caused by acne. It may make a great alternative for getting rid of the whitehead and blackhead spots left behind by acne. More studies are on the way to prove that CBD can help with scars.

What Type of CBD Product Best Suites Acne?

CBD studies are limited, and no research has looked at the best deliverable for CBD for acne. However, topical products such as creams sound better for managing acne. Still, you could use CBD capsules or tinctures for acne.

Consult Your Doctor

Are you suffering from acne or any other skin condition that tortures you? Are you planning to make CBD part of your regimen? Consult your doctor to know the appropriate dosages to start with. The CBD industry is largely unregulated, and the FDA has not recommended any dosages for non-prescription CBD. Talking to a doctor will also help you know the possibilities of drug interactions, especially when ingesting CBD oil.

Conclusion

CBD cannot treat or heal acne. However, you can use cannabidiol to attack acne since it can help fight fungal infections that worsen acne reduce sebum production, and promote the healing of acne scars. If you choose CBD for acne, consult your doctor to know the appropriate dosages for the cannabinoid.

References

Andre, C. M., Hausman, J. F., & Guerriero, G. (2016). Cannabis Sativa: The Plant Of The Thousand And One Molecule. Frontiers In Plant Science7, 19.

Oláh, A., Tóth, B. I., Borbíró, I., Sugawara, K., Szöllõsi, A. G., Czifra, G., Pál, B., Ambrus, L., Kloepper, J., Camera, E., Ludovici, M., Picardo, M., Voets, T., Zouboulis, C. C., Paus, R., & Bíró, T. (2014). Cannabidiol Exerts Sebostatic And Anti-inflammatory Effects On Human Sebocytes. The Journal Of Clinical Investigation124(9), 3713–3724.

Stella, A., Palmieri, B., Laurino, C., & Vadalà, M. (2019). A Therapeutic Effect Of Cbd-Enriched Ointment In Inflammatory Skin Diseases And Cutaneous Scars. La Clinica Terapeutica170(2), E93-E99.

Crystal Kadir

MS, Durham University
GP

The work of a family doctor includes a wide range of clinical diversity, which requires extensive knowledge and erudition from a specialist. However, I believe that the most important thing for a family doctor is to be human because the cooperation and understanding between the doctor and the patient are crucial in ensuring successful health care. On my days off, I love being in nature. Since childhood, I have been passionate about playing chess and tennis. Whenever I have time off, I enjoy traveling around the world.

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