How CBD Creams and Balms Can Target Eczema, Acne & Psoriasis

CBD, short for cannabidiol, has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic properties in various health conditions. When it comes to skin concerns like eczema, acne, and psoriasis, CBD creams and balms have emerged as a popular choice. In this blog post, we will explore how CBD-infused topical products can provide targeted relief for these skin conditions, supported by scientific research.

Eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and dry patches, affects millions of people worldwide. CBD creams and balms can offer soothing effects for eczema-prone skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD, as demonstrated in a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, can help reduce skin inflammation and alleviate itching.

Source: Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2020). Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21.

Acne, a common skin condition caused by excessive sebum production and inflammation, can also benefit from CBD creams and balms. CBD's ability to regulate sebum production and possess anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce acne breakouts. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that CBD can inhibit sebum production and exert anti-inflammatory effects on human sebocytes, potentially minimizing acne symptoms.

Source: Oláh, A., Tóth, B. I., Borbíró, I., Sugawara, K., Szöllősi, A. G., Czifra, G., … Bíró, T. (2019). Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and anti-inflammatory effects on human sebocytes. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 129(3), 1412–1426.

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by thick, scaly patches, can be challenging to manage. CBD creams and balms have shown potential in alleviating psoriasis symptoms. CBD's immunomodulatory properties, as discussed in a review published in Future Medicinal Chemistry, may help regulate immune responses associated with psoriasis, reducing inflammation and abnormal cell growth.

Source: Nagarkatti, P., Pandey, R., Rieder, S. A., Hegde, V. L., & Nagarkatti, M. (2009). Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs. Future Medicinal Chemistry, 1(7), 1333–1349.

When selecting CBD creams and balms for skin conditions, it's essential to consider product quality and ingredients. Look for products made from organically grown hemp, third-party lab-tested for purity and potency. Additionally, opt for full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD products to take advantage of the entourage effect, where multiple compounds work synergistically for enhanced benefits.

Before incorporating CBD creams or balms into your skincare routine, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure compatibility and avoid any potential allergic reactions. It is also advisable to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing skin conditions or are on medication, to ensure CBD is suitable for your specific needs.

Read Also: What Is CBD Muscle Balm Good For? From Pain Relief to Skin Care

From a holistic perspective, psoriasis, eczema, and acne are believed to have multiple root causes that involve various aspects of an individual's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While these conditions have distinct characteristics, they can share underlying factors that contribute to their development. Here's an overview of the potential root causes from a holistic standpoint:

1. Psoriasis:

   • Genetic predisposition: There may be a hereditary component to psoriasis, making some individuals more susceptible to developing the condition.
   • Immune system dysfunction: Psoriasis is considered an autoimmune disorder, suggesting an overactive immune response that leads to the rapid growth of skin cells and inflammation.
   • Chronic inflammation: Systemic inflammation, often triggered by dietary choices, stress, or lifestyle factors, can contribute to psoriasis flare-ups.
   • Emotional and psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, and emotional disturbances are believed to be associated with the onset and exacerbation of psoriasis symptoms.

2. Eczema:

   • Genetic factors: Certain gene variations can increase the likelihood of developing eczema, although environmental triggers are often necessary for its manifestation.
   • Impaired skin barrier function: Eczema is characterized by a compromised skin barrier, which allows irritants, allergens, and microbes to penetrate the skin more easily.
   • Allergic reactions: Eczema can be triggered or aggravated by allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, or harsh chemicals.
   • Emotional and psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, and emotional imbalances can contribute to eczema flare-ups by affecting immune function and triggering inflammation.

3. Acne:

   • Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during puberty, menstruation, or hormonal disorders, can stimulate excess sebum production, leading to clogged pores and acne.
   • Increased sebum production: Overproduction of sebum, influenced by hormonal activity and genetic factors, can contribute to the development of acne.
   • Inflammation and bacterial colonization: Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria can colonize clogged pores, triggering an immune response and resulting in inflammation and acne formation.
   • Diet and lifestyle factors: Poor dietary choices, high intake of processed foods, excessive sugar consumption, stress, lack of sleep, and inadequate skincare practices may exacerbate acne symptoms.

Holistic approaches to managing these conditions often involve addressing multiple factors and promoting overall well-being. Strategies may include:

• Balancing the immune system through a healthy diet, stress management, and immune-supportive supplements.
• Identifying and avoiding triggers, such as allergens, certain foods, or environmental irritants.
• Nurturing emotional well-being through relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and stress reduction practices.
• Supporting healthy gut function and addressing any underlying gut imbalances, as the gut-skin connection is believed to play a role in these conditions.
• Emphasizing a nutrient-rich diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.
• Using natural skincare products that are gentle, non-irritating, and free from harsh chemicals.

It's important to note that holistic perspectives are complementary and should be integrated with conventional medical advice. Consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in holistic approaches can provide personalized guidance for managing these conditions.

If you're here because you're looking for a natural solution, you might be in the right place. BATCH offers multiple CBD solutions for people at all points during their wellness journey. 

• Looking for a topical to help relieve skin stress? Check out our Original Relief Balm. This soothing blend of lavender, CBD, and beeswax is curated to help relax stressed skin topically.
• Needing inside-out healing? Try Calm CBD Oil during the day or Dream CBD Oil before bed to help get that restoration you really need.

How To Take Care of Your Skin with CBD Products

CBD creams and balms hold promise as targeted solutions for managing eczema, acne, and psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory, soothing, and immunomodulatory properties of CBD make it a potential natural option for relieving symptoms associated with these skin conditions. By choosing high-quality products and seeking professional guidance, individuals can explore the benefits of CBD-infused topicals in their skincare routines. As research continues to unfold, CBD's role in skin care and dermatology may become even more prominent.

References:

1. Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2020). Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21.

2. Oláh, A., Tóth, B. I., Borbíró, I., Sugawara, K., Szöllősi, A. G., Czifra, G., … Bíró, T. (2019). Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and anti-inflammatory effects on human sebocytes. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 129(3), 1412–1426.

3. Nagarkatti, P., Pandey, R., Rieder, S. A., Hegde, V. L., & Nagarkatti, M. (2009). Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs. Future Medicinal Chemistry, 1(7), 1333–1349.