Can CBD Oil Help Get Rid of Acne?

If you have tried everything to get rid of acne and still struggle with blemishes, then it might be time to consider CBD for acne. CBD oil has numerous therapeutic benefits that can help clear up your skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial actions.

In this guide, we will address how to use CBD oil for acne, including whether you should use it topically or if you should ingest it for best results. We’ll also discuss how to incorporate a healthy diet into your cannabis acne treatment plan. Read on to learn more about CBD oil and acne.

Does CBD Help Acne?

Acne isn’t only an embarrassing condition - it can also be painful and reduce your quality of life. If you’ve tried different acne treatments, then you know it can get expensive. 

Additionally, many over-the-counter products don’t seem to work. Some can even make your skin even more irritated due to harsh chemicals and other inflammatory ingredients. 

According to research published by Harvard, adult acne is caused by four primary factors: bacteria, inflammation, pores becoming clogged by skin cells that are “sticky,” and excess oil production. 

Other factors that may cause adult acne include stress, hormones, and a woman’s menstrual cycle - all of which may cause excess oil production. The type of hair products, skincare products, and makeup you use can also cause acne as it may clog pores. Lastly, diet plays a role in the development of acne as it may cause inflammation throughout the body. 

Most acne treatments are designed to control excess oil production and clear pores to keep skin clean and blemish-free. Research shows that CBD oil may be able to reduce acne naturally. 

According to one study, CBD oil contains lipostatic, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory effects, which may be able to help prevent acne due to its ability to reduce oil production. 

Specifically, the study found that CBD prevents excessive lipogenesis or oil production induced by “pro-acne agents” in human sebocytes, meaning that it can be used as an acne treatment for oily skin. 

CBD oil also reduces inflammation, which can be used to help heal damaged skin associated with acne, as well as antibacterial properties to stop the spread of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. 

Another more recent study found that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in maintaining skin homeostasis and barrier function, and its dysfunction has been linked to various skin disorders, including itching, acne, hair growth and loss, hyper and hypo-pigmentation, and atopic dermatitis. 

The study reiterated that CBD may be able to reduce acne in one of three ways:

• It contains antimicrobial effects that inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin, keeping pores clean and clear 
• It contains anti-inflammatory properties and was found to prevent pro-acne mediators from elevating 
• It prevents human sebocytes from overproducing oil, again keeping the pores clean and clear 

Additionally, CBD appears to be gentle enough for most skin types. Because it’s naturally derived from plant compounds, cannabis may be the solution to your acne problems if your skin becomes irritated from over-the-counter medications and treatments that contain harsh chemicals. 

How To Use CBD Oil For Acne

In addition to being gentle on skin, CBD oil can be used in a variety of ways to reduce acne. You can use it topically for its antibacterial effect as well as orally to heal your skin from the inside out. 

One thing you may want to keep in mind when applying any oil to your skin is that it may worsen your condition if you already have skin that is prone to excessive oil production. 

However, many people find that using CBD oil topically for acne does not create a problem as it naturally counteracts excess oil production. Plus, it contains antibacterial properties to fight bacteria that cause acne. 

If you’re concerned about using CBD oil on your skin, you may want to try using CBD oil topically in a small area of your skin first to see how it affects you. 

You can make your own CBD acne cream by combining CBD oil with a carrier oil and applying it directly to your face. We suggest using coconut oil because it also contains antibacterial properties and anti-inflammatory actions that help reduce acne. 

Here’s how to make your own CBD acne cream at home:

1. Invest in a high-quality CBD oil from cold-extracted sources 

This ensures that your oil will contain the more therapeutic bioactive compounds necessary for reducing acne. Oil products that are heated to high temperatures will not contain as many of the healing nutrients that CBD has to offer.

2. Choose a carrier oil

Some people apply CBD oil directly to their face without any problems. However, if you have sensitive skin, then consider mixing your CBD oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil.

3. Apply to skin after washing your face (or acne-prone area)

Make sure to wash your face or skin first before applying the CBD cream. This ensures that you have removed all dirt, oil, and bacteria so that it does not get trapped in your pores when you apply the cream.

4. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet

Last but not least - it’s important to eat an anti-inflammatory diet that supports your acne regimen. Diet is a major contributor to inflammation and decreased skin health.  

Cutting out foods from your diet that may cause acne and inflammation - such as dairy, refined sugars and grains, gluten, alcohol, and grains or legumes - is just as important as using a topical solution.

Eating an anti-inflammatory diet helps improve your skin barrier from the inside out. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, omit sugar and junk food, and take supplements that may contribute to healthy skin, such as probiotics, omega 3’s, and yes - even CBD oil!