We're sure you already know about CBD (cannabidiol) oil, but how about CBD topicals? You heard us correctly. Instead of reaching for your usual skin care solutions, you could head to the shop and pick up some CBD body butter. Once you've got that, why not supplement it with a soothing CBD salve?
Since you're on this site, you likely don't need us to tell you how popular the cannabinoid has become over the past decade. You can find at least one or two kinds of CBD skin care products in most health and wellness stores around the US. They take many forms as well, and they all serve a different purpose.
You've got a wealth of options out there, and we'd be happy to walk you through how they'll work with your body. Then, in the process, we can hopefully help you figure out which kind is right for you.
What Does CBD Do?
We figure most people know about CBD's popularity, but we also understand that most people don't get how it works. We don't blame you, as the science behind it can be tricky, but we're here to break it down.
See, when you introduce it into your system, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps cannabidiol exert its effects. However, despite the fact CBD is a cannabinoid (which the ECS usually handles), their relationship isn't direct. Rather, it works indirectly with CB1 receptors, and partially with CB2 receptors.
As far as its CB1 interaction, it works to stop the production of an enzyme designed to break down anandamide, an internally-produced cannabinoid. If you want to sound scientific, endocannabinoid is the proper term. A phytocannabinoid, however, is a cannabinoid you'd find in a plant. The two main examples, of course, are CBD and THC.
The former substance, as it turns out, actually plays a key role in the function of the ECS. The body produces it naturally to maintain homeostasis, which is just the state of feeling safe, balanced, and satisfied. More specifically, the body paces out its production to manage internal drives like our appetite, our mood, etcetera. This indirect activation of the CB1 receptors also has the potential ability to control inflammation and pain.
Its interaction with CB2 receptors has a similar possible benefit, especially considering it's also connected to the management of inflammation. Given the focus of this article, we should also note that activating this receptor could also help quell rashes and acne. That being said, as we mentioned before, CBD only partially interacts. To improve activation, beta-caryophyllene, a terpene often found in hemp plants, will often supplement it.
How Does CBD Work in Topicals?
So that may be how CBD works in the body, but how would it work when applied to the skin? It may seem like it can't access the ECS from there, but it turns out the skin has its own endocannabinoid system.
Similarly to the internal version, the cutaneous (skin-based) ECS is tasked with keeping the surrounding cells in balance. In turn, researchers suspect that endocannabinoids, like anandamide, and phytocannabinoids, like CBD, could potentially interact with it to maintain a healthy, harmonious balance.
As you've now likely guessed, topical CBD products carry out their effects through this particular system. To be clear, they won't have all the same effects as CBD ingested orally or sublingually, as they won't hit the exact same receptors. They will, however, fulfill certain relevant functions in the area you directly apply them to.
Science hasn't confirmed the exact nature of these effects, but researchers suspect CBD-infused topicals could potentially relieve pain, inflammation, acne, and more. We need full, detailed clinical trials before anyone can make a definite statement, though.
What Kinds of CBD Topicals Are Out There?
Feeling ready to try things out for yourself? You'll find there are some soothing, high-quality CBD topicals out there to choose from. Below, we'll discuss a couple of the main kinds you'll see on the market.
CBD Body Butter
There are a few reasons why CBD body butter could be a very useful addition to your skin care routine.
In general, quality body butters are made from natural ingredients that can help moisturize skin and keep it smooth. We make our offering, for example, with shea butter, avocado oil, aloe vera juice, and some other ingredients.
The 400 mg of full-spectrum CBD oil it's made with also contains a wide host of other cannabinoids and terpenes. According to the entourage effect, a popular theory, their inclusion could help enhance the CBD's effects.
Blended together, this formula is designed to soothe whatever area of your skin it's applied to. We also infused it with lavender oil to make it even more refreshing. You'll not only have better-feeling skin, but smell like an early spring morning as well.
CBD Salve
In a similar way, you can save your skin from discomfort and dryness with a well-made CBD salve.
We offer three different varieties: peppermint, lemongrass, and lavender. They share some common ingredients, namely coconut oil, sunflower oil, shea butter, and beeswax, along with 300 mg of full-spectrum CBD oil.
As far as unique additions, the peppermint variety also boasts arnica and vitamin E, while we supplemented the lemongrass version with calendula and jojoba. We kept our lavender salve simple, though, with no extra ingredients outside of the essence.
Are CBD Topicals Right For You?
So, do you think you could benefit from CBD topicals? If you're dealing with dry skin, inflammation, or some other cutaneous issue, we think a nice CBD salve or butter is worth a shot.
Before you make any purchase, though, we suggest you speak with your doctor about the idea. They'll be able to consider your medical history and see how your current medications will interact with CBD. In turn, they can recommend a dose and treatment plan that fits your exact needs.
Few potential risks or side effects come with it, but it still actively interact with your body, so it's best to be safe. Once you get the all-clear, though, have fun exploring the wide world of CBD-infused topicals ahead of you.
