Winter not only means shorter days and darker nights, but it can also be tricky for your skin, especially if you suffer from dry skin or eczema. The drop in temperature, dry air and indoor heat means your skin must adapt from the summer sun and the natural warm atmosphere. Like how we wrap up in layers before going for a cold walk, our skin needs extra TLC during the winter. This is where CBD comes in, it is an anti-inflammatory agent and more powerful than other antioxidants vitamins C and E. Studies show that CBD, applied topically or taken orally, can regulate oil productions and restore moisture to the skin.
If we ignore the change in season, skin can become sensitive and irritated. Dry skin not only feels bad, but it can also leave a wrinkle like appearance on your complexion.
If you’ve tried your usual moisturisers and you’re still looking for winter skin saviours, we have the answer. If you are new to CBD, forget the idea that it will give you the ‘high’ feeling associated with cannabis use. It’s a natural compound that doesn’t have the intoxicating effects of THC (the psychoactive compound found in cannabis) and it’s legal in the UK. To help your skin achieve a winter glow, we have shared 5 ways to incorporate CBD into your beauty routine.
1. Add CBD oil to your routine
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS); these are cell receptors and molecules in the human body that help to regulate essential functions such as sleep. Our skin is the largest organ in the human body, when you apply CBD topically, CBD binds to CB1 and CB2 which are common receptors in the skin, muscle tissue and nerves.
Skin application allows you to bypass the bloodstream and digestive system to deliver immediate results to a more targeted area. The natural compound ‘interrupts free radical chain reactions, capturing free radicals or transforming them into less active forms’ which reduces any dullness in your complexion. If using CBD oil topically, make sure that the CBD oil does not have ingredients that would be counterproductive. For example, a flavoured oil, even if all-natural flavouring, can irritate the skin so you want to make sure that you are using an unflavoured product with no additives. And you also want to be aware of any other ingredients that may be in the product, including the carrier oil. Crescent Canna’s unflavoured CBD drops contain only pure CBD extract and MCT oil. MCT oil also has topical benefits for the skin.
Morning and night apply 4-5 drops of oil into the palm of your hand, with your fingers dab the CBD oil in small motions on your face before using the whole surface of your hand to lightly smooth everything into your skin.
2. CBD infused face mask
More time spent indoors with the central heating on can lead to breakouts and flare ups. Face masks are ultimately a supercharged version of a moisturiser that gets to work for a prolonged period. A review published in 2017 found a link between CBD oil and reduced dryness of the skin. CBD is non-comedogenic which means it can provide moisture without clogging your pores. The ingredients of a face mask tend to be intense and potent so that you can finish with a plump and hydrated look. Applying a CBD face mask once a week can leave your skin feeling soft and looking rejuvenated.
3. CBD to condition eyelashes and eyebrows
Many high-street makeup brands have released CBD infused mascara and eyebrow gels. CBD is rich in vitamins and stimulates hair growth through the main fatty acids, omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9. Research shows that CBD increases cerebral blood flow, this helps to provide hair follicles with more nutrients whilst removing harmful toxins. CBD oil leaves your eyebrow and eyelash hair stronger and healthier alongside promoting new growth.
4. CBD infused lip balm
During winter, your lips can become chapped and dry, leaving them untreated can lead to excess flaking. Unlike traditional lip balms, CBD oil infused lip balm has antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties. Choose a lip balm made with high-quality and tested CBD and check the ingredients before use. Alternatively, you can make your own by combining 1 tablespoon of natural beeswax pastilles, 2 tablespoons of organic sweet almond oil and 2-3 drops of CBD oil. Add the beeswax and almond oil to a glass cup and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes before stirring in the CBD oil. Pour the mixture into containers and let it set for 30 minutes.
5. CBD oil to under eyes
Eye bags often appear if you are lacking sleep, but since they are a common part of aging, they can derive naturally. Eye bags are a result of muscles and tissues weakening around your eyes. CBD is rich in antioxidants; oxidation is the one that produces free radicals that lead to cell damage. The natural compound also has anti-inflammatory properties, on application to under your eyes, skin will become calm which helps to tighten the puffiness. Simply dab a small amount directly under your eyes, remember to always do a patch test beforehand.
