CBD is a highly lipophilic molecule that tends to accumulate in the stratum corneum rather than penetrate into the deeper strata. Lipophilic refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve in lipids or fats.
For this reason, researchers have evaluated other methods of delivery, including gels made with carbomer, encapsulation, argan oil and boswellic acid or in combination with hyaluronic acid to enhance absorption.
Human skin in general has low permeability, which means it blocks most substances from entering. The skin has a particularly low absorption rate for cannabinoids, so application of CBD balms, salves, and lotions need to be heavy enough to overcome this barrier. However, when applied liberally, CBD is permeable to the skin through its pores.
CBD topicals include creams, lotions, and other CBD-infused products applied directly onto your skin. Topical CBD absorption offers localized relief, meaning it’s useful for mild physical discomfort and soreness in a contained surface area.
For example, delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is the most common form of physical discomfort that naturally occurs a few hours after a strenuous exercise or fitness routine. And CBD topicals are the most straightforward way, and most preferred method, to help ease the discomfort.
With topical CBD skin absorption, the CBD molecules affect the skin cells called sebocytes that create the sebaceous gland. And the sebaceous gland itself produces sebum, which is an oily secretion that keeps the skin flexible and resilient.
The CBD from a topical cream, or lotion, penetrates the sebaceous gland through the hair follicles. Once absorbed, the CBD and the activation of the cannabinoid receptors help boost the soothing abilities of other well-known pain-relieving agents, like the topical analgesic histamine dihydrochloride.
And because CBD absorption from topicals doesn’t permeate much further beyond the sebaceous gland, you typically should use a generous amount of the topical to achieve the desired effect.
CBD And Skin Care
Topical CBD absorption is useful for soothing a specific area of the skin. And many topical CBD products contain several other ingredients that specifically help to repair, protect, and moisturize the skin.
With these specialized ingredients and the wholesome benefits of CBD infused together, CBD topicals are also ideal for reducing blemishes, which is why many beauty products are currently incorporating CBD into their formulas.
But remember, CBD topicals are useful only for the skin surface. They do not permeate into the lower layers beyond the epidermis, so CBD or any other of the active ingredients never hit the bloodstream.
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