Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world. Almost everyone will experience acne at some point in their life, whether it appears during their teens years or in adulthood. Acne can be uncomfortable and at times even painful. As well, it can lead to problems with self-esteem, and in serious cases, depression and anxiety.
Consuming Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) May Cause Acne
Cannabis and acne are a controversial combination because some researchers claim that cannabis consumption may cause or worsen acne. THC can increase testosterone levels, and a bump in testosterone levels can lead to increased acne. But the increase in testosterone experienced by cannabis consumption is only 3–5%, which is a nominal amount that shouldn’t lead to an outbreak.
Food consumption associated with cannabis can also create a negative connection between cannabis and acne. Since many people, especially recreational consumers, can experience the “munchies” when consuming cannabis, they may reach for snacks high in salt, sugar or fat—all of which can lead to an increase in acne.
Increased oil production has also been tied to cannabis; this is because THC functions much like anandamide, an internally produced endocannabinoid that’s involved in oil production in the skin. What this means is that high levels of THC can supplement anandamide, leading to an increase in oil and therefore acne production.
CBD May Reduce Acne
Cannabidiol (CBD), however, is able to regulate oil production in the skin by countering anandamide. A 2010 Hungarian study by Dr. Tamas Biro found that when CBD was applied to skin cells, it decreased anandamide and oil production by inhibiting lipid synthesis. If you suffer from acne, decreasing oil production in the skin can help reduce the amount of pimples your skin produces as well as relieve ones that have already formed.
Since CBD is the cannabinoid that may reduce the incidence of acne, results can be achieved through the use of hemp- or cannabis-based products, the latter being far more potent. Topicals are the best choice for targeting acne with cannabis, in the forms of special salves or simple oils. Applying CBD to the affected area can help endocannabinoid receptors in the skin, and the system as a whole, achieve proper balance. Cannabis and hemp oil also have linoleic acid, which works to regulate the production of oil on your face that can lead to breakouts.
Applying a small amount of a CBD cannabis topical can not only help reduce oil production, but it can also reduce inflammation. CBD helps regulate immune responses, which can lead to a decrease in inflammation that can help reduce the visual appearance and prominence of blemishes.
There’s a lot of potential for CBD to become a part of your everyday skincare routine. You can use it in the form of moisturizer or spot treatments to help ease your acne symptoms. All you have to do is mix coconut oil with cannabis oil for a simple, natural topical that moisturizes and balances your skin’s oil production, thereby helping to reduce acne breakouts. Cannabis oil alone can also be used on the skin as a spot treatment to target blemishes.
