There's no stopping beauty's obsession with CBD, but should you really be adding it to your skincare regime?
While CBD isn't a new beauty craze, it does appear to be gaining momentum in 2021. Of course, with any hype, we should always be speculative. But, throw in the fact it shares connotations with an illegal substance, and you'll likely have even more questions about it. As such, we set about answering them…
WHAT IS CBD?
CBD is short for cannabinoid, a compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s one of hundreds of chemicals found in cannabis that may have therapeutic effects. But don't worry, it won't make you high—only one compound in cannabis has that effect, and that's THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). CBD oil is legal because it doesn't contain THC.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CBD?
CBD is fast-becoming a beauty buzzword, now covering labels of skincare, make-up, and more, and its credibility is well documented. Research suggests CBD has significant natural anti-inflammatory properties, which could result in reduced puffiness, redness, and irritation. It has also been shown to reduce the skin’s oil production, making it a good acne-fighter. Additionally, it’s claimed that CBD can improve your mood, sleep quality, and confidence levels, as well as provide pain and nerve relief.
What you must bear in mind, however, is many products simply use hemp seed oil, which yes, is an excellent moisturiser, but doesn't contain any cannabinoids like CBD—the compounds that contain the aforementioned benefits.
HOW SHOULD I USE CBD?
CBD comes in many guises – oils, supplements, creams – but we suggest starting small. Add a drop of oil into your skincare routine, or, once life returns back to normal, head to the five-star spa at Kimpton Blythswood Square, Glasgow, to indulge in a massage using Hashtag Organics’ La Rue Verde, a luxury skincare range derived from CBD oil.
"Being the first partnership of its kind in Scotland, the therapists at Blythswood Square have mastered the treatment protocols and have an acute understanding of the endocannabinoid system," says Finlay Anderson, spa manager at Blythswood Square. "This allows us to confidentially communicate how CBD biologically works to our clients—a must for anyone tentative about the treatment. Last year we launched a special experience to take our guests through a full CBD journey, involving a CBD bath, massage, and a CBD-infused health shot, finishing with a delicious lunch in our spa cafe—we’re hoping to reoffer this experience when restrictions allow.”
