Cannabis oil for skin has gained increasing attention for treating dermatological conditions. Many people seek natural treatments for various symptoms. Some choose alternative medicines with beneficial cannabinoids like CBD and THC.
Skin health is a vital component of longevity and quality of life. Many consumers want to avoid widely available synthetic products and harsh chemicals. Cannabis oil shows promise in treating conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
Become a dermatological expert with our comprehensive doctor’s guide on cannabis oil. We discuss current and emerging trends alongside their uses, benefits, and limitations.
You and your patients deserve the best approaches in skin care. Find all the insights you need as we explore the world of cannabis oil in dermatology.
Understanding cannabis oil
Cannabis oil for skin is an extract from the Cannabis sativa plant. It has many potential benefits, like treating anxiety, pain, nausea, and depression.
Various cannabinoids make up the composition of cannabis oil. They include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), along with terpenes and flavonoids. These compounds attach to specific receptors in our bodies to produce different effects.
THC oil contains the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis plants. Some use it for therapeutic effects, like relieving headaches, pain, insomnia, and nausea.¹
CBD oil contains a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It provides more potential medicinal benefits, like combating inflammation, anxiety, and appetite loss.¹
Cannabis legality varies globally. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates cannabis-derived products in the United States.² These restrictions include CBD oil, but it’s legal federally if it’s hemp-derived and contains less than 0.3% THC.
Australia legalised CBD in 2016, with restrictions on consuming, producing, and prescribing. Anyone with a valid doctor’s prescription and medical condition can access it.
Patients and physicians accessing CBD need special permission from government-provided schemes. The products should appear on the Australian Register Of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
Dermatological conditions treated with cannabis oil
Dermatological conditions affect many people worldwide. More are turning to cannabis oil for skin to help treat various symptoms. Cannabinoids contain anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and moisturising properties which may provide relief.
Below are five common skin conditions that might benefit from cannabis oil.
Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition. It causes inflamed, dry, and itchy patches across the body. Symptoms often require ongoing management and can be significantly uncomfortable.
There are limited eczema treatment options available. Patients can take steps to manage the symptoms by practising proper skincare routines.
A study on cannabinoid signalling in the skin showed positive outcomes. CBD may aid in combating common eczema symptoms, like itching and dryness. Patients may also experience reduced triggers that cause the condition.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an irregular increase of skin cells. This buildup can lead to red, itchy, dry patches and scales.
Some patients use cannabis oil for skin to provide psoriasis relief. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties could alleviate itchiness and swelling. It may modulate the body’s immune response to combat or reduce the severity of further symptoms.
Acne
Acne is a common condition that causes cysts, pimples, clogged pores, and lesions on the skin. Triggers include exposure to bacteria, certain drugs, excess sweating, humidity, and hormonal changes.
A 2019 clinical trial studied CBD-enriched ointment in inflammatory skin diseases. It suggested that CBD could treat acne scars and related symptoms. The compound’s antibacterial properties may also reduce acne-causing bacteria.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a condition that causes skin inflammation, redness, itchiness, rashes, and swelling. It sometimes results in oozing, blistering, or flaking.
The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD could aid in reducing the triggers of dermatitis. It may relieve symptoms by reducing swelling, irritation, and itching. Cannabis oil provides moisture for the skin, restoring health and dermatological balance.
Scientific evidence and research
Scientific cannabis oil research has increased significantly in recent years. More doctors and health specialists acknowledge its applications, despite a history of controversy.
The cannabinoids in the oil interact with the skin’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Scientific studies show varying potential applications for these compounds in skin diseases.³ They may treat eczema, acne, hair disorders, skin cancer, and psoriasis.
The ECS supports various important physiological processes in the body. Some cannabinoids function in maintaining skin homeostasis, regulation, regeneration, and barrier formation.⁴ Their value in dermatology isn’t unnoticed, as more clinical trials emerge.
CBD gel application minimises a patient-oriented measurement score for eczema. The results reduced from 16 to 8.1 (p < 0.001). ³ Dietary hempseed oil improves itching and dry skin in patients with atopic dermatitis. It works by elevating the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
A double-blind, split-body, placebo-controlled study involved 51 patients with mild plaque-type psoriasis. They used a 2.5% CBD ointment twice daily for 12 weeks, with a placebo. Their Psoriasis Severity Index scores decreased (p = 0.026). ³
Various studies highlight CBD oil’s therapeutic benefits for skin health. The cannabinoid could restrict bacterial growth in the treatment of acne. Its anti-inflammatory and moisturising benefits may also improve dermatological conditions.
Current data comes from scall-scale clinical trials and preclinical studies. More research and large-scale, randomised, and controlled trials are necessary.
The regulations and restrictions on cannabis cause limitations for research. Some studies only provide animal findings, so standardised human trials are vital.
Cannabis oil for skin conditions: Application and dosages
Understanding the routes of administration and safety for cannabis oil application is crucial. Various methods exist to target different areas and skin conditions. Patients can opt for topical or oral use. The right approach depends on symptom severity and preference.
Topical cannabis application is the most common method. It works by applying the oil or ointment to the skin directly. The cannabinoids interact with local receptors to heal and reduce inflammation. They could also minimise dryness, redness, and itchiness.
Oral cannabis works by ingestion and targets symptoms that affect the entire body. It provides a systemic effect but may be less effective. First-pass metabolism minimises the bioavailability of active cannabinoids. It could still prove beneficial for patients with underlying causes.
Titration is vital when introducing your patient to cannabis oil. Work with them to discover optimized dosage guidelines. Start them with a low dose and increase it slowly until reaching the desired results.
Safety precautions are necessary to mitigate side effects during titration. Advise your patients to monitor their body’s responses during the treatment. They should cease application if adverse reactions persist.
CBD could have negative interactions with specific medications. Gather a comprehensive report on your patient’s existing conditions and treatments. Doing so ensures ongoing success in addressing their dermatological needs.
Patient experiences and testimonials
Many patient testimonials relay positive experiences when using cannabis oil for skin. More consumers support the products for treating dermatologic conditions. They report positive outcomes in combating dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, and rosacea.⁵
Anecdotal evidence from patients provides valuable insights into real-life cannabis oil experiences. Many individuals describe symptom relief and improved quality of life.
Personal testimonials align with scientific evidence. They show effectiveness in skin condition treatment by relieving itching and reducing inflammation. CBD and THC oils reportedly improve hydration and unblock clogged pores.
Managing your patient’s expectations and responses is vital during treatment. Some may experience significant symptom improvement and react well to the oils. Others might feel little to no changes or face unwanted side effects.
Doctor's recommendations and considerations
Doctor’s recommendations vary when prescribing cannabis oil for skin. Treatment outcomes rely on factors like product quality, dosage, and individual tolerance.
Below are five considerations to remember for your cannabis oil consultation.
- Patient history. Gather information on previous dermatologic treatments and their efficacy. Note any sensitivities or allergies to cannabis or similar botanicals.
- Recommend individualised products. Prescribe or suggest high-quality products with the right THC and CBD content. The treatment should address the patient's condition according to their unique profile. It should also adhere to local regulations.
- Potential interactions. Pay attention to underlying medical conditions that may interact with the prescribed product.
- Manage patient expectations. Ensure they understand the goals of treatment. Guide them through the possible benefits and risks. Open a discussion on their willingness to try alternative options.
- Monitor progress to find effective treatment. Keep track of your patient through follow-up consultations. Ask them to keep a journal and note positive or negative progress. Note their responses and adjust dosages or products as needed.
Professional guidance and integrated treatment are essential when prescribing cannabis oil. Consider suggesting a combination of conventional and alternative medication. Using additional CBD and THC-free creams or ointments could improve therapeutic outcomes.
The future of cannabis oil for dermatology
Emerging cannabis oil innovations show increased interest in cannabinoids for skin care. Current dermatology advancements indicate the potential for new treatments.⁶ Doctors and patients have already seen potential for conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Scientists are exploring ways to incorporate cannabis oil formulations into dermatology. Future research may uncover more comprehensive skin care solutions.
Experts hope that future trends and ongoing regulatory developments open more doors. More research can lead to streamlined approval processes and individualised treatments.
Clear guidelines and regulations can also result in safe and effective cannabis use. Regulatory bodies can ensure safety and quality standards by establishing standardised guidelines. These measures provide pathways for patients to receive consistent and reliable products.
Discover revolutionary cannabis treatments through Planted
Cannabis oil for skin is a revolutionary advancement for dermatological treatments. It may provide solutions for itching, dryness, redness, swelling, and discomfort.
CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They could relieve symptoms and provide effective therapy.
Understanding your patients’ unique profiles in a healthcare consultation ensure individualised success. Studies and innovations continue to uncover cannabis oil benefits for skin health. Stay updated with the latest findings to make the best professional decisions.
Discover our expert-created courses to increase your knowledge of medicinal cannabis. We’re here to help you become a leader in your field and change your patients’ lives.
References
- Fletcher, Jenna. 2023. “CBD vs. THC: Differences, Benefits, and Effects.” MedicalNewsToday. www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325871
- Office of the Commissioner. 2019. “FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products: Q&A.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration. www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd
- Yoo, Eun Hee; Lee, Ji Hyun. 20 Nov. 2023. “Cannabinoids and Their Receptors in Skin Diseases.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Vol. 24, no. 22, pp. 16523–16523, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10672037/
- Tóth, Kinga; Ádám, Dorottya; Bíró, Tamás; Oláh, Attila. 6 Mar. 2019 “Cannabinoid Signaling in the Skin: Therapeutic Potential of the “C(Ut)Annabinoid” System.” Molecules, vol. 24, no. 5, p. 918, https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24050918.
- Yeroushalmi, Samuel; Nemirovsky, Daniel Rollan; Mamlouk, Mira; Feldman, Dovid Aharon; Nelson, Kamaria; Sparks, Andrew; Friedman, Adam. 28 Dec. 2021. “Consumer Perspectives on and Utilization of Medical Cannabis to Treat Dermatologic Conditions.” JDDonline - Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. jddonline.com/articles/consumer-perspectives-on-and-utilization-of-medical-cannabis-to-treat-dermatologic-conditions-S1545961622P0031X/
- Friedman, Adam; Weiss, Melissa. Jan. 2019. “Are Cannabinoids the Future of Dermatology?” Dermatology Learning Network. www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/thederm/cover-story/are-cannabinoids-future-dermatology