CBD Body Care

CBD, abbreviated from Cannabidiol, is one of the chemical substances in the cannabis plant. It can be derived from either hemp or marijuana plant. Most CBD products are derived from industrial hemp since it is richly concentrated with CBD but low on tetrahydrocannabidiol (THC), the chemical compound responsible for the psychometric effect. After the signing of the US 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived CBD products were legalized for recreational and medical use. However, they should contain no more than 0.3 percent THC. CBD can be infused in multiple topical products such as creams, salves, serums, and lotions for skin and body wellness. 

What Is CBD Body Cream?

CBD body cream is one of the topical products under the CBD skincare regime manufactured by infusing CBD with regular cream additives. It is available in various formulations such as full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate. What differentiates them is their potency and chemical compositions. 

Full Spectrum CBD Cream

According to Marinotti et al.(2020), cannabis-derived full spectrum body cream has all cannabinoids in the hemp plant, including THC, flavonoids, and terpenes. Due to the availability of several chemical compounds, it is known to be the most potent. Have you ever heard of the entourage effects before? The entourage effect is where all cannabinoids work in tandem with CBD to boost its therapeutic effects. Additionally, it has a grassy smell and an earthy taste due to terpenes' presence. 

Broad Spectrum CBD Cream

The broad-spectrum CBD cream is a perfect mix of full-spectrum and CBD isolates cream. It contains all the other cannabinoids minus THC. The other cannabinoids also produce entourage effects, making it the second most potent spectrum cream. It is an excellent choice for users who want to benefit from the effects of other chemical compounds minus the high effects of CBD.

CBD Isolate Cream

Also known as pure CBD cream, the isolate cream is the most refined form of CBD body cream. It contains no compounds besides CBD; all cannabinoids are isolated while leaving. Due to the absence of other compounds, the isolate is odorless and flavorless. It makes an ideal choice for individuals who want to benefit from the effects of Cannabidiol without the intoxication of CBD. 

Benefits of CBD Cream for Your Skin

Topical body cream interacts with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and oil glands to dispense its therapeutic benefits. The cannabinoid receptors are located in the endocannabinoid system, a complex signaling system responsible for body homeostasis and regulating numerous bodily functions such as pain, memory, and sleep. de Almeida & Devi (2020) observed that CBD indirectly binds to the ECS receptors; it produces skin cannabinoids that bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors leading suppressing pain and inflammation. 

It Helps Soften the Skin

There are numerous skin care products in the market; others are successful, although some have side effects like allergic reactions. The cannabis product is packed with moisturizing properties, improving skin tone. With the CBD body cream, you are assured of soft and glowing skin. 

Hydrates Dry Skin

There are several causes of dry skin, including dehydration, arid climate, and scalding baths. In some cases, it may be a symptom of several conditions resulting in itching Maghfour et al.(2020) noted that CBD body cream combined with additives like fatty acids rehydrates and soothe painful and itchy skin. Additionally, it is a potent moisturizing agent. When applied topically, it locks moisture in the skin, leading to rehydration. CBD body cream is a natural barrier protecting the skin against environmental stressors. Adding it to your daily skincare regime is a great way to go.

Helps with Physical Discomfort

CBD body cream addresses physical discomforts almost instantaneously, unlike CBD oil or gummies. The topical cream is, therefore, an excellent choice for joint immobility. For best results, massage the targeted area for maximum ingredient absorption. Furthermore, a gentle massage helps support healthy circulation, which goes a long way in dealing with stress and discomfort. 

Replenishes Sunburn Skin

Constant sun exposure may damage the skin layers by burning skin cells and depleting their natural oils, leading to irritation and skin discomforts. As a result, the body reacts by increasing the blood supply to the burnt region to facilitate healing. This can then result in skin redness. Though healing takes some time, applying CBD body cream to the affected area may make it more bearable; its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and anti-fungal properties support the healing process (Evans, 2020). Additionally, infused ingredients such as jojoba oil and vegetable glycerin replenish sun-kissed skin. 

Promotes Clear Skin

CBD body cream has shown promising results in supporting happy and clear skin, thanks to its various mechanisms. Clogging of hair follicles and excessive sebum oil production significantly cause skin breakouts. A 2014 study pointed out that CBD prevents the sebaceous glands (the glands responsible for sebum oil production) from the overproduction of sebum; excess sebum supports inflammatory responses that block skin swelling. If you choose CBD cream primarily for clearer skin, it is vital to look at its ingredients list. Some creams have organic ingredients like palm and coconut oil that may clog the pores. Even though these ingredients moisturize the skin, they may irritate sensitive skin. 

CBD Cream and Dry Skin

Taking care of dehydrated skin is not easy, and if you have one, you know how demanding it can be. Though dry skin is not fatal, it can be irritating at times. It is mainly caused by constant exposure to high temperatures. If not taken care of, it may lead to xerosis. 

CBD body cream contains moisturizing properties that tackle xerosis. When applied topically, it is a natural barrier against environmental stressors that cause skin dryness. By applying a generous amount to your skin, you are assured of getting extra benefits and more prolonged effects. 

CBD Cream and Eczema

Eczema is characterized by dry, itchy, and flaky skin. In some cases, it may lead to painful sores, leaving the skin prone to infections. Baswan et al. (2020) observed that cannabis derivatives might treat eczema. CBD may treat the following types of eczema;

• Contact dermatitis; is caused by allergic reactions to irritants like dyes, medication, and fragrances. Some of its symptoms include skin burning, blistering, and itching.
• Atopic dermatitis: It is the most popular form of eczema. It is linked with dryness. Though its exact cause is still unknown, it is believed to result from an overactive immune system. Individuals with hay fear are more susceptible to atopic dermatitis. 
• Nummular eczema; It is linked with pink circular spots, which sometimes may be oozing. Its major causes are insect bites, chemical burns, and dry and sensitive skin.

When applied topically, CBD cream activates various receptors in the skin, believed to relieve skin conditions like eczema. 

Research shows that since Cannabidiol is a potent antimicrobial agent, it may help deal with the bacterium (Staphylococcus aureus) responsible for causing eczema infections. Additionally, it contains anti-inflammatory properties that suppress multiple allergic reactions. Also, CBD may reduce pain and ease physical discomfort. A study showed that CBD cream lowers itching severity by sixty percent. Additionally, about 34 percent of its users do not require topical treatments to tackle eczema. 

Patients with multiple skin conditions like eczema prefer CBD topicals for their safety. Furthermore, it helped treat various inflammatory skin conditions and improved sleep. However, research is still at its infant stage; more is needed to confirm these claims. 

Side Effects of Using CBD Cream for Eczema

According to Meissner et al.(2021), CBD may cause liver damage. However, topical CBD products cannot cause damage to the liver. Due to the availability of terpene in some of the CBD creams, it may cause severe itching. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to use pure CBD cream. Additionally, those with nut allergens should scrutinize the ingredient list to avoid allergic reactions from the cannabis derivatives. 

Cannabidiol and Sleep

Millions worldwide experience sleeplessness. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most prevalent cannabinoids in the hemp plant. Suraevetet al. (2020) stated that CBD might help with numerous sleep disorders, such as insomnia. Additionally, it suppresses anxiety and pain, common causes of sleeplessness.

Cannabidiol and Insomnia

CBD works with the hypothalamus in stress regulation. Hypothalamus is a part of the brain responsible for sleep functions like regulating body temperature. One of the primary causes of insomnia is an overactive stress reaction. It interferes with rest time when the body is not processing conscious trauma. CBD equalizes sleep-wake rhythm and suppresses deregulated stress hormone activation cycle. 

Circadian Rhythm Disorders

Circadian rhythm disorder results from environmental interference of the internal clock responsible for sleep and wake cycles. The disorder develops due to changes in sleeping habits resulting from travel, medical conditions, work, and even genetics. CBD may improve sleep quantity and quality by helping the body progress through normal sleep stages without interruption. The cannabis derivative acts on the cannabinoid receptors to initiate various events leading to more natural sleep timing in reaction to day and night. CBD may aid individuals like nurses who suffer from circadian rhythm disorder because of work shifts that affect their sleeping windows. However, more proof is required to back up these claims.

Anxiety

CBD can treat multiple anxiety disorders. The cannabis derivative improves sleep and alleviates anxiety. CBD significantly suppresses anxiety without any high effects, making it effective against intrusive thoughts before bedtime. Specifically, it acts on the ECS receptors that manage memory storage, olfaction, and emotions. CBD activates the endocannabinoid system to suppress memory and simultaneously facilitate sleep whenever the brain is at disequilibrium due to intrusive thoughts that lead to anxiety. Since it helps restore hormonal balance, it is an excellent equalizer.

Pain

CBD has analgesic properties that help suppress pain. According to research, topical CBD products topically may help address the specific issue in the affected area. Regarding sleep, CBD may help deal with pain and inflammation, leading to adequate pain control and relaxation.

Restless Leg Syndrome

The restless leg syndrome is characterized by a restlessness in the leg and difficulty in motion. Cannabidiol might minimize the nerve firings frequency, which causes muscle twitching. It may be particularly beneficial to individuals whose sleep is commonly affected by limb movement. The syndrome may affect an individual's sleep quantity and quality if left untreated. 

Risks of Using Cannabidiol For Sleeping Conditions

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), many individuals tolerate CBD products without side effects. However, when taken in high amounts, it may cause:

• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Changes in weight and appetite
• Nausea

Additionally, it can interact with various medications. Hence, before adding Cannabidiol into your daily regimen, consult a doctor. 

Factors to Consider While Purchasing CBD Body Cream

The Product's Potency

Potency is one of the most vital factors when purchasing any topical CBD product. Since it is applied on the skin, its bioavailability is low. A product's potency refers to its power and when its effects kick in. Always go for a CBD body cream with a potency level between 3mg/ml and 8mg/ml for maximum results. 

CBD Source

Knowing the products; origin is vital since it helps you know the extraction method used to obtain the product. The most preferred extraction method is CO2 since it produces a cleaner and safer product.

Proof of Third-Party Lab Test Reports

Third-party lab test results show whether the product has passed the required contamination test. Additionally, it shows the content levels of other compounds like THC and CBD. The third-party lab reports are readily available on the company's website for easy customer access. The CBD market is unregulated; many fraudulent producers have infiltrated the market.

Ingredients

Always go for a CBD body cream made of natural ingredients with limited chemical contaminants. Ensure the product does not have substances that may irritate your skin. 

Conclusion

CBD is one of the prevalent compounds in the hemp plant. Its traction is growing daily due to the numerous health conditions it can tackle. The cannabis derivative is available in many ordinary products. One of the most loved products is the CBD body cream. Packed with multiple properties, it can treat various skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, acne, and dry skin. When applied topically, it interacts with specific cannabinoid receptors in the ECS to dispense its therapeutic benefits. Though it does not bind directly to the ECS receptors, it induces the production of endocannabinoids that interact with these receptors to exert its benefits. CBD is advantageous over THC as it does not cause any psychoactive effects. The cannabis product is well tolerated by most individuals and rarely causes side effects when taken in the required amounts. 

References

Baswan, S. M., Klosner, A. E., Glynn, K., Rajgopal, A., Malik, K., Yim, S., & Stern, N.        (2020). Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) for skin health and         disorders. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 13, 927.

de Almeida, D. L., & Devi, L. A. (2020). Diversity of molecular targets and signaling pathways for CBD. Pharmacology research & perspectives, 8(6), e00682.

Evans, J. (2020). The Ultimate Guide to CBD: Explore the World of Cannabidiol. Fair Winds      Press.

Maghfour, J., Rietcheck, H. R., Rundle, C. W., Runion, T. M., Jafri, Z. A., Dercon, S., ... & Yardley, H. (2020). An Observational Study of the Application of a Topical Cannabinoid Gel on Sensitive Dry Skin. Journal of drugs in dermatology: JDD, 19(12), 1204-1208.

Marinotti, O., &Sarill, M. (2020). Differentiating full-spectrum hemp extracts from CBD isolates: Implications for policy, safety and science. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 17(5), 517-526.

Meissner, H., &Cascella, M. (2021). Cannabidiol (CBD). In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.

Suraev, A. S., Marshall, N. S., Vandrey, R., McCartney, D., Benson, M. J., McGregor, I. S., ... &Hoyos, C. M. (2020). Cannabinoid therapies in the management of sleep disorders: a systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies. Sleep medicine reviews, 53, 101339.