Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural oil derived from Cannabis sativa plants, which is also used for hemp and marijuana. However, many skin care brands have added CBD to their products, includingCBD creamsfor eczema.
But does it work?
There are a variety of ways to use CBD lotion for eczema or atopic dermatitis. While it's a common skin issue, many of these symptoms can go untreated for many years, leading to more dry, flaky skin. Studies have shown that CBD can alleviate these symptoms.
How Does CBD Oil Work for Eczema?
CBD is known as a chemical compound found in Cannabis sativa, but it doesn't have any psychoactive properties like THC.
This means that skin creams and topicals with CBD won't get people 'high,' and studies have shown that when applied to areas affected by eczema, CBD topicals can soothe itchy skin, heal dry skin, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
One study found that CBD connects to cannabinoid receptors throughout the body, which includes the skin. One main result was that participants found they stopped itching as much. This led to faster recovery after an outbreak.
Other research has found that CBD topicals can be used as an antimicrobial and also kills Staphylococcus aureus. This bacteria is known to infect those with eczema, as it causes dry, itchy skin flare-ups.
What are CBD Topicals?
CBD topicals include butters, salves, and lotions. When applied to areas affected by dry, flaky skin from eczema, these creams can provide instant and long-term relief.
Creams are typically combined with beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil, which aids in their treatment of eczema.
If a CBD topical cream does help the affected area, then many patients find they don't need prescription topicals that would include steroids or antihistamines.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a collection of medical conditions that cause painful, inflamed, itchy, dry skin that typically appears like a rash. There are multiple types of eczema, including contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, status dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
While eczema is not contagious, it can develop due to genetic and environmental factors. Some of the most common symptoms of eczema include:
- Itchy skin
- Red, inflamed patches of skin
- Dry, sensitive skin
- Rough, leathery scaly skin
- Crusting and oozing
- Some painful swelling
Currently there is no cure for eczema, but many treat outbreaks with topicals. While these are typically OTC or prescription topical medications, others have been looking for natural and alternative ways to get rid of eczema flare-ups.
How Does CBD Help with Eczema
When applied to an eczema flare-up as a cream or other topical, CBD can soothe inflamed, red skin. It can instantly provide relief. One licensed aesthetician named Danielle Frey found that CBD creams can also help with acne, hyperpigmentation, and skin aging.
When a CBD's endocannabinoid system interacts with your skin and body, it provides powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. However, more research is still needed to understand how effective CBD can be in different amounts.
CBD Oil for Eczema
Studies have shown there are multiple reasons why CBD topicals help with eczema and other skin problems.
1. Regulates Oil Production
Eczema sufferers have major issues with the overproduction of sebum in some cases. A study in 2014 found that the anti-inflammatory properties in CBD can help regulate sebocytes, which are skin cells that produce sebum. For those with seborrheic dermatitis, CBD can lower oil product and make it faster for your skin to heal.
2. Relieves Dry Skin and Itching
The major reason to use CBD topicals is for dry, itchy skin relief. A study from 2009 found that CBD can hydrate the skin faster, alleviating dry skin quickly.
3. Anti-inflammatory Benefits
Finally, CBD provides anti-inflammatory benefits, reducing pain, swelling, and redness in areas affected by eczema breakouts. If you are constantly suffering from irritation and sensitive skin with eczema or psoriasis, CBD creams may provide more relief.
Reported Benefits of CBD for Eczema [Complete List]
- Prevents seizures
- Muscle spasm relief
- Anti-anxiety
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Treats psychotic disorders
- Pain relief
- Dry, itchy skin relief
CBD Types for Eczema
Some CBD topicals are all natural oils that don't contain any other ingredients. These are referred to as CBD isolates.
Others are combined with butters, beeswax, and coconut oil to be a more potent for hydrating the skin and relieving eczema symptoms.
Types of CBD Products
1. CBD Isolate: This is the purest form of cannabidiol. It doesn't have any other cannabis plant compounds besides CBD.
2. Full Spectrum CBD: These products will have some trace amounts of THC. They won't contain enough to make you feel 'high,' but the inclusion of other cannabinoids can offer enhance the product for stronger pain relief.
3. Broad Spectrum CBD: While containing other cannabinoids like in full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD has the THC removed completely.
Is CBD Oil Legal for Eczema Treatment?
When derived from hemp and containing less than 0.3% THC, then it is still legal under federal law. However, some states still maintain CBD is an illegal substance. See this list for state laws on CBD oil.
Should You Use CBD Oil for Eczema
It's best to try a little bit of cream on an isolated spot first if you've never tried it before. While those who use CBD topicals say that CBD isolate is the best for beginners, others have found that full-spectrum CBD is more potent for pain and itch relief related to dry skin from outbreaks.
If you're thinking about using CBD topicals for eczema relief, it's important to talk to your doctor first and ensure that you don't have any allergies to cannabidiol.
If you'd like to learn more about CBD for eczema, contact Eden's Herbals at support@edensherbals.com today!
*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness. Medical advice should be taken from a medical professional.
All of the articles on this site are written by 3rd party content providers, expert bloggers or doctors not directly affiliated with Eden's Herbals.
Individuals should learn the risks and side effects prior to taking CBD. Make sure to always check with a medical professional before starting any new CBD treatment or medication that is not FDA approved.
