Ten years ago, the term ‘cannabis’ was synonymous with one thing and one thing only—smokin’ doobs. Oh, how times have changed (although, to what extent depends on where in the world you live). While we still associate the plant with getting high, we also tend to now think about it in its wider context. Not only have hemp products taken the food world by storm, but we’re seeing cannabidiol (also known as CBD, a purified, non-psychoactive compound harvested from the cannabis plant) being used to treat everything from anxiety to chronic pain. CBD is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory benefits—and if there’s one place that inflammation is most visible it’s on our skin. So naturally, it was also a matter of time before cannabis made its way into the skincare world.
Indeed, CBD-infused beauty products are having a serious moment in the US and UK right now. But in actual fact, it’s an Australian pharmaceutical company, MGC Derma, that’s leading the fray. CBD oil plays a starring role in their range of face and body products.
What does CBD oil do for your skin?
“CBD works with your body’s internal endocannabinoid system, which means that our cosmetics collaborate with your body as opposed to merely being on it”, says MGC Derma CEO, Roby Zomer. “We’ve seen this quite clearly in the testing for our Derma Plus line with volunteers seeing a reduction of at least 60% in their symptoms related to psoriasis, eczema, seborrhea, dermatitis and acne.”
CBD is rich in antioxidants, which means it can naturally prevent and reduce cell damage. It also includes a high concentration of vitamins A, B, D and E, which means it can leave your skin looking hydrated, youthful and glowy. Yep, we’ve got high hopes for this one! Oh and speaking of which, no—CBD oil won’t make you stoned (or make your face feel funny), as it only contains trace amounts of THC (the compound that produces that high). It’s for this reason that beauty brands are allowed to sell CBD products in countries like Australia where marijuana isn’t legal.
Read on for some of our favourite cannabis-infused beauty products.
5 cannabis-infused beauty products
1. MGC Derma CBD Hyaluronic and Peptides Day Cream
CBD is blended with peptides and hyaluronic acid to produce a lightweight day cream that leaves the skin smooth and radiant.
Shop the MGC Derma CBD Hyaluronic and Peptides Day Cream
2. Milk Makeup KUSH High Volume Mascara
Yep, cannabis mascara now exists. This one uses CBD oil for easier application and more hydrated lashes.
Shop the Milk Makeup KUSH High Volume Mascara.
3. From Ever Since Lift and Firm Elixir Contour Serum
This serum combines CBD with green tea extract and chamomile to tighten the skin while fighting off free radical damage.
Shop the From Ever Since Lift and Firm Elixir Contour Serum.
4. Crave Oil Cleanser
This ‘war paint remover’ is loaded with calming plant oils from cucumber, kukui nut, watermelon, moringa and black cumin, as well a pure hemp extract to soothe irritations and fortify sensitive skin as you cleanse.
Shop the Crave Oil Cleanser.
5. Malin + Goetz Cannabis Perfume Oil
No, this won’t make you smell like weed—but the cannabis extract will add another hint of intrigue to the mix of fig, pepper, orange, lemon, sandalwood, and patchouli.
Shop the Malin + Goetz Cannabis Perfume Oil.