CBD beauty sales soar: So what does it actually do?

CBD analytics firm, NielsenIQ report that sales of CBD beauty and cosmetic products could potentially double in 2021 to US$600 million.

They estimate that this could be a result of large retail chains entering the CBD industry by releasing new product lines. Last year saw brands such as Colgate, Body Shop and Avon release new products into the cosmetic market.

As we got to grips with lockdown, it seems our beauty routines didn’t slip. Purchases such as face lotions and serums soared during lockdown accounting for 18 percent of all hemp-CBD products last year. This accounted for roughly US$340 million in sales with the average consumer spending $36.

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So what does CBD beauty actually do?

Anti-inflammatory

CBD could help to restore balance in the skin as it is naturally rich in antioxidants. As a fat-soluble extract, it may help to retain moisture in the skin working to prevent dryness and irritation.

Acne is thought to be caused by stress, hormonal imbalances, unhealthy diets or improper skin care. Spots can form on the skin as a result of a build of sebum, bacteria and diet which can become painfully inflamed.

The NHS estimates the 95 percent of people aged 11 to 30 have experienced acne to some extent. It normally disappears in a person’s twenties but 3 percent of those over 35 continue to have acne.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation showed that CBD may prevent sebum production while having an anti-inflammatory effect. A review from 2009 revealed CBD may reduce acute inflammation in response to injury.

Hydration

CBD pops up in a lot of creams and moisturisers as it’s thought to be excellent at hydrating the skin. A study in the Clinical Therapeutics journal examined the effects of CBD cream on 20 patients with either eczema, psoriasis or scarring. Results showed that the cream could be an effective moisturiser and prevented water loss while boosting the elasticity of the skin. The researchers stated this may be because of the anti-inflammatory properties and fatty acids in the creams.

Anti-Bacterial

Sometimes, if the skin is broken from scars, spots or redness, then bacteria can get in causing infection.  CBD may be antibacterial potentially help to prevent infection. A study from the  University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience found that CBD may kill numerous strains of bacteria, including VRSA, VISA and MRSA.

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