The use of CBD, or cannabidiol, is gradually spreading across various fields. Today, it is often incorporated into skincare, thanks to the numerous virtues attributed to it. Is it possible to combat hyperpigmentation with CBD?
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Can CBD help combat hyperpigmentation?
Summary
- What is CBD?
- What are the causes of skin hyperpigmentation?
- Can CBD be used to combat skin hyperpigmentation?
Published July 9, 2023,
updated on July 31, 2024,
—
3 min read
What is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid found in cannabis. It has properties similar to THC, but it is not prohibited. Indeed, CBD is not harmful to the body, unlike THC. It is not hallucinogenic, does not have a euphoric effect, and is not addictive. In fact, CBD is not a drug. This is why its areas of application are so varied.
The use of CBD in France is regulated. The ingredient must adhere to a specific set of guidelines.
CBD is incorporated in skincare formulations to combat certain issues, such as hyperpigmentation.
What are the causes of skin hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation of the skin manifests as a particularly pronounced colouration on a specific area or the entirety of the skin. This phenomenon is the result of a sudden increase in the production of melanin. The latter is responsible for the pigmentation of the skin.
There are certain triggering factors for hyperpigmentation.
The primary cause of skin hyperpigmentation is prolonged exposure to the sun. When the skin comes into contact with the sun's UV rays, the skin's melanin production is disrupted. As a result, brown spots appear on the epidermis. They can develop further if sun exposure continues.
Hyperpigmentation can be hormonal. Hormones can be the cause of a type of hyperpigmentation known as melasma or chloasma. This type of hyperpigmentation is more common in women than in men. The triggering elements are female hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), which stimulate the overproduction of melanin.
Age is also a factor that promotes skin hyperpigmentation. Over the years, the cells that produce melanin, the melanocytes, increase in size. This increases the number of age spots in individuals aged 40 and over.
It is likely that hyperpigmentation occurs as a result of a skin injury or inflammation. After healing, the skin darkens and its colour changes.
Can CBD be used to combat skin hyperpigmentation?
CBD possesses several virtues for the skin. These benefits help combat skin hyperpigmentation.
CBD possesses moisturising properties. It can combat free radicals by preventing skin oxidation. Thanks to cannabidiol, the skin's natural barrier is strengthened. This helps to prevent the emergence of brown spots and hyperpigmentation.
CBD swiftly reduces inflammations such as skin rashes, redness, and other issues. Indeed, by binding to the endocannabinoid receptors, it alleviates the pain experienced. When inflammation is reduced, the risk of developing brown spots decreases.
Thanks to the properties of CBD that combat oxidation, skin ageing is slowed down. Cannabidiol prevents oxidation as it enhances the effectiveness of antioxidant enzymes. It also promotes an increase in the levels of vitamins A and E, both of which are antioxidant vitamins. Therefore, hyperpigmentation caused by ageing is avoided.
CBD regulates hormone production. Therefore, it helps to prevent hormonal imbalances. This reduces the risk of overproduction of melanin, and consequently, hyperpigmentation.
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