Cannabis is popping up in a number of beauty products like serums, face masks, creams and body lotions. Experts tell us if they work...
While there has been much debate about its medical uses, there is a steady increase in the use of Cannabis in beauty products across the globe. Cannabidiols or CBD, which is a component derived from Cannabis (that won’t get you high), is becoming a popular choice for skin care with promises of reducing fine lines, preventing pimples, and rescuing dry skin. Recently, Milk Make-up launched a CBD-infused mascara and brow tint, Malin + Goetz has a hand and body wash with this compound, Origins offers a relaxing and hydrating face mask containing this oil, while Myaderm has used it in their blemish control product.
Seed oil is beneficial
Generally known for all the wrong reasons, Cannabis is being increasingly used as a key ingredient in skin care products. CBD is used in cosmetics as this part of cannabis is free of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is considered hallucinogenic, explains Dr Batul Patel, Medical Director and Dermatologist, The Bombay Skin Clinic. “Cannabis seed oil is obtained by cold processing the seeds. This contains polyphenols and antioxidants, but is not a very stable oil. It needs to be mixed with other oils. It can be used with kiwi or rosehip oil to help balance sebum production and it can be added with coconut oil for the hair,” she says.
Could help with acne issues
CBD is preferred because of its many anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties. “This is said to be beneficial for people with acne, rosacea, eczema and for anti-ageing. I would advise the use of cannabis extract in skin care for those with breakouts and dry skin issues. But first, try a test patch on the face, below the jawline and wait for 48 hours so you know you are not allergic to any of the ingredients,” advises Dr Shuba Dharmana, Dermatologist, Lejeune Medspa. While the feedback from users is good, she feels there is no actual clinical evidence to say it is definitely beneficial. “It is not harmful and laboratory studies have shown good results, but scientific evidence for its effects on people is not documented yet,” she adds.
Relieves signs of itching
Cannabinoids have promising antipruritic effects. Hence, it works well in many dermatological conditions where itching is the main symptom. It also works on the erythema on skin so can be used in eczemas as well. Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar, MD Skin, Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Trasi’s Clinic & La Piel says these products suit Indian skin types. “They help regulate the life cycle of skin cells for a more radiant, youthful skin. CBD normalises oil production in dry skin patients and behaves as a highly effective sebostatic agent in acne and seborrheic dermatitis. It should, however, be avoided in patients with respiratory disorders and severe heart conditions,” she adds.
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