Could CBD Help to Soothe Eczema?

Hemp and cannabidiol (CBD) wellness has become increasingly popular in many countries in recent years. Of course, this should come as no surprise: humans have been utilising the hemp plant for a huge variety of applications for thousands of years. However, with increased awareness of the potential benefits of hemp and its derivatives - including CBD - consumers are embracing this versatile plant like never before.

CBD can now be found in a wide range of products, including oils and tinctures, food products, and various skincare products. While the compound has been found to have a range of general skincare benefits, people are also increasingly turning to CBD products to aid with specific skin complaints, including eczema. But could CBD really help to soothe eczema? Let’s find out.

CBD: A Wonder Skincare Ingredient?

The skincare industry is known for championing new “buzz” ingredients. But many of these ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and retinol, manage to stand the test of time. This may be due to their hydrating properties, ability to tackle free radicals, or potential to banish fine lines and wrinkles. So, where does CBD stack up against the skincare greats?

Scientists have known for decades that CBD and other cannabinoids can interact with cannabinoid receptors in our bodies. These receptors make up a network called the ‘endocannabinoid system’, which plays a vital role in many bodily processes, from mood and sleep to pain and inflammation. Cannabinoid receptors can be found throughout the body, including in our skin, where they may be a useful target for therapeutics.

The therapeutic properties of CBD have made skincare products, such as CBD moisturisers and serums, a hit with consumers. Their skincare credentials may include:

• Delivering powerful antioxidants: CBD has powerful antioxidant properties - potentially stronger than skincare staples vitamins C and E! This could make CBD skincare beneficial for preventing damage from UV exposure and environmental pollution.
• Combatting inflammation: Inflammation is a common skin complaint with various causes. Evidence indicates that CBD may possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially making it useful in managing a number of skin complaints.
• Tackling acne and blemishes: CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, combined with its potential to reduce the production of sebum, may make it beneficial for managing acne and other skin blemishes.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause dry, inflamed, and itchy patches of skin that may flake or blister. It can affect various parts of the body but it is most common on the hands, feet, arms, and backs of the knees. It can affect people of all ages, from just a few weeks after birth; however, it most commonly develops in people in their 20s or over the age of 50.

There are several types of eczema, including atopic dermatitis (the most common form), contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, and nummular eczema. In this article, we’ll be focusing on atopic dermatitis.

CBD versus Eczema

Atopic dermatitis can be linked to a number of factors, including environmental triggers, damaged skin barrier function, genetics, and an altered immune response. The most common symptom of atopic dermatitis is dry, itchy skin that may become inflamed. CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory, moisturising, and anti-itch properties may make it a useful tool in managing the symptoms of this (and other) types of eczema.

Is there any evidence?

Only a small number of studies have assessed the topical administration of CBD - and even fewer have focused on eczema or atopic dermatitis. Nonetheless, the current evidence indicates that the impressive properties of CBD may make it a product of interest in the treatment of this common skin condition.

The findings of a recent observational study suggest that topical application of CBD may help to significantly improve transepidermal water loss in patients with eczema, while a cross-over study of 20 atopic dermatitis patients found that dietary hemp oil improved skin dryness and itching. Experimental studies have also supported these findings. What’s more, CBD has also been studied for its anti-itch potential.

While more clinical evidence is needed to fully understand the apparent anti-eczema potential of CBD, these results are promising.

CBD is an increasingly popular therapeutic compound sourced from the hemp plant. It has been embraced from health and wellness enthusiasts looking for a wide range of benefits, including for effective skincare.

Current evidence indicates that CBD may possess anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and hydrating properties that could make it useful in the management of a number of skin complaints, including atopic dermatitis or eczema. However, more research is needed to confirm this potential. As such, commercially available CBD products should not be considered an alternative to prescribed medical products.

If you’d like to discover the potential benefits of CBD skincare, shop our full Green Therapy CBD Cosmetics range!