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Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world. Almost everyone will experience acne at some point in their life, whether it comes during their teens or adulthood. Acne can be uncomfortable, and at times even painful. Possibly hardest of all, acne can cause problems including poor self esteem, and in serious cases, depression and anxiety. 50 million Americans are suffering from acne at any given time and dealing with the stress of trying to cover up their blemishes and trying to find a solution.
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THC and Acne
Cannabis and acne are a controversial combination because some researchers claim that cannabis may even cause or worsen acne. THC can increase testosterone levels, which leads to increased acne, but the increase in testosterone experienced by cannabis consumption is only 3-5%, which is a nominal amount which should not lead to an increase in acne. Food consumption associated with cannabis could also be leading to a negative connection between cannabis and acne. Since many people, especially recreational consumers, can experience the “munchies” while consuming cannabis, they may reach for snacks high in salt, sugar, or fat that may lead to an increase in acne.
Increased oil production has also been tied to cannabis because THC functions much like anandamide, an internally produced endocannabinoid that is involved in oil production in the skin. So, high levels of THC can supplement anandamide, leading to an increase in oil and acne production. CBD, however, is able to regulate oil production in the skin by countering anandamide. A 2010 Hungarian study by Dr. Tamas Biro found that when CBD was applied to skin cells it decreased anandamide and oil production by inhibiting lipid synthesis. If you suffer from acne, decreasing oil production in the skin could help to reduce the amount of pimples produced and help relieve already formed ones.
CBD May Reduce Acne
Since CBD is the cannabinoid that assists with acne, results can be achieved through hemp or cannabis based products, though cannabis based products are far more potent. Topicals are the best choice for targeting acne with cannabis and they can be in the forms of special salves or simple oils. Applying CBD to the skin can help endocannabinoid receptors, and system as a whole, in the skin achieve proper balance. Cannabis and hemp oil also have linoleic acid, which works to regulate the production of oil on your face that can lead to breakouts.
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Applying a small amount of a CBD cannabis topical can not only help to reduce oil production, but it can also reduce inflammation. CBD helps regulate immune responses, which can lead to a decrease in inflammation that can help reduce the visual appearance and prominence of blemishes.
There is a lot of potential for CBD to become a part of your everyday skin care routine in the form of moisturizer or spot treatments to help ease your acne symptoms. If you cannot find a topical that suits your desires, you can simply mix coconut oil with cannabis oil for a simple, natural face cream that moisturizes and balances your skin’s oil production to help reduce acne breakouts. Cannabis oil alone can also be used on the skin as a spot treatment to target particular blemishes.
If you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.
