Recently, the cosmetic industry has become very attracted to cannabidiol or CBD as evidenced by the increasing number of skincare products containing this plant-based molecule. The science behind CBD’s benefits lies within the skin’s endocannabinoid system. CBD works within this system to deliver anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, moisturizing, wound-healing, anti-acne and most impressively, anti-aging benefits.
CBD and the Skin’s Endocannabinoid System
Two important receptors, CB1 and CB2 have been identified and are expressed in several skin cells including keratinocytes, melanocytes, sebocytes and fibroblasts as well as cutaneous nerves and skin immune cells. Literally, the skin has its own endocannabinoid system consisting of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors and metabolic enzymes, all working to maintain balance and integrity of the skin.
Properties of CBD and Their Potential in Cosmetic Dermatology
To more fully understand specific benefits of CBD for the skin, a quick examination of its properties is helpful.
Antioxidant Properties – Oxidative stress is the result of an imbalance between reactive oxygen species generation and the body’s antioxidant capacity. Disproportionate oxidative stress causes damage to skin cells leading to chronic inflammation and aging of the skin. CBD reduces cell death in keratinocytes and melanocytes after being exposed to UV rays, enhances the efficiency of the antioxidant thioredoxin system and increases levels of vitamin A and E levels, ultimately improving skin health.
Anti-inflammatory Properties – Nuclear factors-kappa B is a DNA-binding protein that plays a key role in gene transcription – the synthesis of RNA from DNA. It also plays a key role in inflammation. CBD, in an in vitro study, demonstrated that CBD interfered with this process, thereby reducing inflammation.
Moisturizing Properties – A part of the skin’s health and integrity is based on dermal water content. When dermal water is lost, skin becomes less elastic, wrinkles appear, and the skin ages more rapidly. In one study, topical CBD significantly increased the dermal water content in vivo.
Anti-acne – Acne is essentially the result of increased sebum and inflammation of the sebaceous glands within the skin. Research has discovered that CB1, CB2 and major metabolic enzymes of endocannabinoids are found in sebaceous glands. Anandamide (AEA) – another endocannabinoid, promotes lipogenesis in sebocytes at low concentration and at higher concentrations, apoptosis or programmed cell death. The endocannabinoid system is therefore believed to play a key role in the balancing of the sebaceous gland. Other studies have revealed that dysregulation in the skin microbiome may lead to acne, brought on by excessive pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are small proteins that play a role in cell signaling. CBD has demonstrated an ability to inhibit expression of these proteins and reduce inflammation of the skin.
Wound Healing – Wound healing involves several complex processes consisting of inflammatory response, cell proliferation and remodeling of tissue. CBD has been shown to improve wound healing through its interaction with senescent dermal fibroblasts, which can accelerate age-related dysfunction of other skin cells and cause systemic inflammation. CBD has also been shown to scavenge free radicals, promote collagen deposition, control inflammatory infiltration and facilitate the formation of blood vessels, all important functions for the healing process of wounds.
Anti-aging Properties – The skin ages due to a degenerative process resulting from chronic exposure to various internal factors such as genetics, hormones and age, as well as external factors including air pollution, UV exposure, and smoking). Studies reveal several results of CBD for the skin including reduction of psoriasis, eczema, psoriasis, and pruritis. It is well-known that CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory benefits wherever the endocannabinoid system exists in the body, including the skin.
Final Thoughts on CBD and Cosmetic Dermatology
The cosmetic industry and CBD seem to be a perfect marriage, due to its many health benefits for the skin. More CBD-containing products are coming to market annually including various creams, lotions, balms, shampoos, face masks and oils. While these products may improve inflammation of the skin, various skin disorders, and assist in the healing of wounds, many hope they have found a magic elixir and the fountain of youth in CBD’s anti-aging properties.
Reference
Kuzumi, Ai, et al. 2024. The Potential Role of Cannabidiol in Cosmetic Dermatology: A Literature Review. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 25:951-966.