Buying guide for best cbd moisturizers
With increasing marijuana legalization across the United States, there’s been a noticeable uptick in CBD consumption. You may notice CBD as the active ingredient in drinks and gummies, but it’s becoming more and more common in cosmetic products. Enter the CBD moisturizer.
Short for cannabidiol, CBD is extracted from hemp, which is in the same plant family as marijuana. On its own, CBD won’t get you “high,” but it can offer pain relief and reduce inflammation. If you’re interested in using CBD in moisturizers and oils, there are a few factors to keep top of mind. As with any beauty product, pay attention to the quality of the ingredients. Also consider the consistency of the cream, your skin type, and any particular skin condition you’re hoping to alleviate.
Fortunately, there’s a fairly wide range of CBD moisturizers to choose from, and BestReviews is pleased to offer you additional information to inform your purchase. To learn more about CBD moisturizers and how they can enhance your beauty routine, keep reading our buying guide below. If you’re ready to try one, check out our favorites.
Key considerations
THC
Most of the CBD you’ll find on the market is derived from hemp rather than marijuana. Hemp-derived CBD contains much lower amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. Consumer CBD products usually include less than 0.3% THC.
Benefits of CBD
Several studies have shown the positive impact of CBD. There is scientific evidence that links CBD to effective epilepsy treatment. Additionally, CBD’s anti-inflammatory capabilities have been proven to decrease arthritis-induced and neuropathic inflammation.
You may wonder what all of that has to do with moisturizers and lotions. The truth is, the same anti-inflammatory qualities that treat pain can also treat skin conditions like eczema and acne. CBD has regenerative qualities, too, which help reduce skin damage from the sun and the aging process.
CBD oil
Cosmetic and skincare products use CBD in the form of oil. To extract CBD oil, the hemp plant must undergo winterization, a process of removing fats, lipids, and other undesirable elements found in the hemp. What’s left is effectively a crude oil, which is mixed thoroughly with alcohol before being stored in a freezer for several hours. Afterward, the mixture is filtered to remove fats and extra particles. Finally, heat removes the alcohol and the CBD oil is distilled.
Potency
CBD passes less easily when it’s absorbed through the skin rather than through the bloodstream. For optimal results, moisturizers should include 3 to 8 milligrams of CBD per application. This normally works out to a few hundred milligrams of CBD per jar or bottle.
You’ll commonly see products labeled as “full-spectrum CBD,” “broad-spectrum CBD,” and “CBD isolate.”
Full-spectrum CBD moisturizer includes all the naturally available components of the hemp plant, which can also mean up to 0.3% THC. Full-spectrum products give you the additional benefits from the hemp plant, such as flavonoids and terpenes.
Broad-spectrum CBD excludes THC altogether. Broad-spectrum products also include flavonoids and terpenes.
Isolate is CBD in its purest form, stripped of any additional compounds.
"In the absence of FDA approval, look for a label indicating other certification. A third-party lab can verify the integrity of the CBD in the product. "
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Body vs. face moisturizer
While “moisturizer” is used as a catchall term for lotions and creams, there are distinct differences between those meant for the body and those meant for the face.
CBD body moisturizer is usually a cream that can be applied all over the body. Quite a few CBD body moisturizers treat joint pain caused by arthritis, which means it can make an excellent gift for older adults. Body moisturizers can also assist in treating nausea.
CBD face moisturizers focus more on skin rejuvenation than pain relief. These products take advantage of CBD’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and help to promote oil production. After using a CBD face moisturizer for a while, you may start to notice decreased redness, more radiant skin, and a slight reduction in fine lines.
Skin type
CBD’s anti-inflammatory, soothing properties make it a fine choice for those with dry and/or sensitive skin. Skin dryness is often caused by an inflammatory skin condition, though it can be exacerbated by a dry climate and the aging process. One 2014 study linked CBD to sebum (skin oil) regulation.
On the other hand, those with oily skin may need to do some additional research to find a CBD moisturizer that complements their skin. You might look for a CBD moisturizer with glycolic or hyaluronic acid. The former reduces excessive sebum, while the latter is a lightweight skin hydrator.
Skin conditions
CBD moisturizers not only promote pain relief, but they can also treat a bevy of mild skin conditions. Acne responds well to CBD moisturizer because acne is an inflammatory condition. CBD’s properties can soothe inflamed skin and reduce the frequency of breakouts. Eczema, and psoriasis, both of which are also caused by inflammation, may respond noticeably to CBD, too. Note that CBD moisturizers are not FDA-approved treatments for any skin condition, so be sure to do your research if you’re looking for a topical skin treatment.
Did you know?
You can find CBD in a number of edible products, too. Ingested, CBD works effectively as a mood stabilizer for those with anxiety or insomnia.
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Features
Fragrance
As with conventional skin moisturizers, CBD moisturizers can be scented or scent-free. Scent-free moisturizers are often recommended for those with sensitive skin because added chemicals and scents may irritate the skin. Scented CBD moisturizers are frequently infused with a plethora of natural ingredients. You may find herbs such as lavender, sage, and lemongrass, along with essential oils like peppermint.
CBD moisturizer prices
Fortunately, CBD moisturizers are readily available at a variety of price points ranging from $15 to $150. Price depends largely on quantity, ingredients, and moisturizer type.
Inexpensive: At $15 to $35, you have several CBD moisturizers to choose from. Many of these products are balms for relieving dry lips or muscle pain. These are typically packaged in a small jar containing around 1 ounce of product.
Mid-range: From $35 to $55, you can find more CBD moisturizers for the face. Quite a few of these boast anti-aging properties and include hyaluronic acid as well as essential oils. You’ll also encounter larger doses, such as 5 milligrams of CBD per use.
Expensive: CBD moisturizers that cost more than $50 may be marketed as luxury products. These source ingredients from organic farms and may include floral extracts and skincare acids. Many items at this price point are body butters or serums.
For your safety
Most CBD products are not approved by the FDA. If you choose a CBD moisturizer for its medicinal qualities, be diligent about documenting how much CBD is in the product, how often you apply it, and any side effects that you notice.
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Tips
- Check with your doctor before using CBD. CBD lotion won’t interact with medications, but if you want to take CBD in edible form, check with a medical professional to make sure it won’t interfere with any prescriptions.
- Add CBD moisturizer to your routine gradually. As with any new skincare product, CBD moisturizer should be gradually integrated into your routine. You likely won’t notice results for a few weeks.
- Test the product on your skin first. If you’re unsure if you have a CBD allergy, test the product on a patch of skin first, such as inside the elbow or wrist. If you notice your skin becoming red, dry, or irritated in general, do not use the product. You may be allergic to CBD.
FAQ
Q. Will CBD show up in drug tests?
A. Drug tests only screen for THC. CBD does not cause significant mind-altering effects. Either way, CBD is absorbed through the skin and joints rather than the bloodstream, so it would not appear on a drug test. If you’re ingesting CBD, however, be sure to check that your CBD moisturizer is produced from the hemp plant.
Q. Can CBD have any negative side effects?
A. There’s little conclusive evidence concerning any negative side effects, though participants in studies did experience some gastrointestinal discomfort, fatigue, and decreased appetite. But these participants consumed CBD oil, which enters the bloodstream. There are few side effects from CBD use through lotions and moisturizers.
Q. Is CBD completely legal?
A. If it’s derived from the hemp plant and contains less than 0.3% THC, then yes, CBD is legal in all 50 states. Any CBD produced from the marijuana plant with more than 0.3% THC is subject to marijuana’s Schedule 1 status with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). CBD regulations vary globally.
