CBD - Music to your face as well as your ears?

In an increasingly cosmetically aware society people are more health and image conscious than they ever have been. This has led to the development of a large array of products all aiming to benefit individual health routines. Acne is a common skin condition that affects more than 9% of the population and is something sufferers can feel hugely self-conscious about.  Scenarios like these have led to some individuals taking rather extreme measures; cutting dairy from their diet, low glycaemic diets and even applying tepid teabags to one’s ‘mug’ are all examples of the weird and wonderful techniques people use. One method that particularly perplexed me was the use of eye-drops on problematic areas. It goes without saying, I can’t see how that works…

Acne itself is thought to be caused by several factors, including genetics, a bacterium known as Propionibacterium, underlying inflammation and the overproduction of sebum, an oily secretion made by sebaceous glands in the skin. Lovely! Based on recent scientific studies, CBD oil may help treat acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce sebum production. Test tube studies have found that CBD oil successfully prevented sebaceous gland cells from secreting excessive sebum, exerted anti-inflammatory actions and prevented the activation of “pro-acne” agents like inflammatory cytokines. Scientific evidence such as these point towards the use of CBD and its effectiveness with regards to the reduction of Acne along with its symptoms.

This waxy secretion of sebaceous glands is a natural protection for our skin. Its presence is not unusual or harmful. Unfortunately, when excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells or external impurities and clogs the pores, blemishes and acne begin to occur.  Sebaceous glands are responsible for the production of sebum of which CB2 endocannabinoid receptors can be found. Through the CB2 receptors, endocannabinoids naturally occurring in the human body can inhibit sebum secretion. A journal article found on ‘PubMed’ suggests they can cause apoptosis, or destruction, of sebaceous cells, and even regulate the expression of genes involved within lipid synthesis.

But what does CBD have to do with this process? The answer is –Phytocannabinoids. They occur naturally within the hemp plant and are prevalent within CBD oils. These are chemical compounds that have affinity for endocannabinoid receptors. Therefore, they can, to some extent, act analogously to our own endocannabinoids or block their actions, in this case the CB2 receptor and therefore the production of sebum. The endocannabinoid system is crucial in regulating the secretion of oily substances in the skin, hence why CBD may be able prevent those pesky breakouts.

Sam Lalley, a salon owner based in Castleford, Yorkshire, bought one of our CBD Infused Candles. After a week’s use of the candle I requested some feedback with regards to her experience. Sam’s reply was hugely positive, she mentioned that the Lavender Infused CBD Candle was “really chilling me out and miraculously, my skin is clearing up so must be doing something!”. Now, although not scientific evidence, the testimonial evidence that we receive is a highly valuable resource, not only for other customers, but for us. the CBD Candle Company also. Understanding the versatility of CBD through continuous research and feedback can go a long way in potentially helping more people with issues that CBD may help them with. If it can save you buying extra teabags and eyedrops for your face, why not give it a go?