How to treat dermatitis with CBD

For centuries it has been used as a natural remedy to treat skin conditions; rashes, ulcers or wounds. In recent years, the question of how to treat dermatitis with CBD has been raised, the interest has been so positive that the cosmetics industry has used it in their formulations such as creams, serums or cleansers.

Today we will talk a little about the benefits of this cannabinoid derivative for our skin, which will allow us to assess its future therapeutic applications.

What is CBD?

CBD is a substance found in the hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa), which is a variety of cannabis. Unlike THC (another cannabinoid) it does not have psychoactive effects, nor does it generate dependence, its effects on brain chemistry are usually different from those of THC.

It is currently one of the most studied cannabinoid derivatives, due to its anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Because it has been shown to be very useful in the treatment of various chronic diseases, its versatility when administered, its few adverse effects and its lack of addictiveness have helped to increase interest in finding other uses.

Benefits of CBD for the skin

Cannabinoids have different receptors distributed throughout the body, as well as various mechanisms of action. So it is not surprising that they have so much activity in the skin, among its most notable properties we can mention the antipruritic, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, antibacterial, antioxidant and antitumor properties.

The skin communicates with the rest of the body through a complex neuro-immuno-endocrine network, which in turn is regulated by the endocannabinoid system. It is responsible for several functions such as sebum production, regenerating skin cells and producing cytokines.

The benefits of CBD for the skin are extensive, taking into account the functions regulated by the cannabinoid system. It is notable for having a regulatory, but not an inhibitory function, i.e. it will help to normalise skin functions, but not selectively suppress them.

The opposite is true for the use of other conventional treatments, which seek to suppress the skin’s natural processes in order to inhibit symptoms. This does not attack the root of the problem, but only contains it.

Cannabidiol acts on our skin through the endocannabinoid system, regulating various physiological processes, allowing us to obtain anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant and essential nutrients for our skin such as fatty acids. Scientific evidence has shown that CBD is very useful for treating atopic dermatitis, pruritus, psoriasis and acne.

Among the benefits of CBD for the skin, we can mention the following.

• Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, it helps to reduce the symptoms (itching) of patients with atopic dermatitis.
• Reduces the use of corticosteroids in diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis or pruritus.
• Treats some skin conditions without compromising the immune system (which happens with long-term use of corticosteroids, favouring the development of infections).
• CBD can activate anandamide, an endocannabinoid with analgesic and antipruritic properties.
• It helps regulate sebum production, helping to prevent the appearance of blackheads.
• Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties protect against acne breakouts.
• It reduces redness, moisturises, soothes, calms and brings a natural glow to the skin.
• It is high in antioxidants and also promotes our body’s natural production.
• Fights free radicals and pollution, delaying ageing.
• Helps to smooth wrinkles.
• Stimulates cell renewal.

How to treat dermatitis with CBD?

Dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory disease, in which genetic, immunological and environmental factors are involved. The patient experiences dry skin, due to the loss of the epidermal barrier. Crusting, exudates, erythema and lichenification appear. There is also intense itching, so the patient scratches and injures the skin, which favours the appearance of staphylococcal infections.

Treatment for dermatitis is to mitigate symptoms and prevent complications, as there is no cure. Topical and systemic corticosteroids, moisturisers, antibiotics and immunosuppressants are used.

To treat dermatitis with CBD, creams and oils are available, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before starting treatment with cannabinoids, because in the case of this pathology topical and taken medications are administered. So it is necessary to check whether they can be discontinued or taken together with CBD.

CBD balms to treat dermatitis have a soothing effect on the skin, protect irritated skin and allow the skin to renew itself. Some preparations contain colloidal oatmeal, which provides the skin with a protective layer of polysaccharides, contributing extensively to the care of irritated areas. It also reduces sensitivity and inflammation. CBD is easily absorbed by the skin, making it the perfect topical medication. It should be applied directly to the area, two to three times a day, depending on the severity.

CBD oil to treat dermatitis can be administered topically or orally via capsules or sublingually. Experts agree that, for best results, CBD should ideally be taken orally and applied topically. This way you get immediate relief locally, while on the other hand, it is working systemically to reduce pain and inflammation.

The dosage will depend on what your doctor prescribes, but it is recommended to start with 20 mg per dose and increase by 10 mg per day, until you find relief. If you start to experience dizziness or nausea, you have already reached a high dose.

The treatment of dermatitis with CBD has shown great results, and considering that there is still a lot of research to be done, the outlook for the future is promising. So far we know that one of its characteristics is to regulate, that is to say, to normalise the functions of our skin, without stopping them completely, as happens with other medicines. This marks a turning point in the treatment of chronic diseases.