Can CBD help with hyperpigmentation?
Pigmentation
Everyone desires soft, smooth, and unified skin that feels cared for and is naturally healthy. Even if you have the disposition for such skin, it is an unsustainable condition. External and internal influences can cause pigment spots (most commonly freckles) to appear over time. These are caused by increased melanin production, which can cause darker skin and loss of brightness.
Natural pigmentation affects absolutely everyone. Children are born without freckles, but gradually the first traces, spots, blotches appear. They appear much more in women, but they no longer need to use decorative cosmetics to keep their skin flawless. They are mostly harmless marks on the body, they are considered one of the symbols of beauty and uniqueness (regular checking is necessary in case of doubt) and they match the natural colour of the hair, eyes or skin.
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition in which darkened areas or larger patches appear on the skin, giving the skin a patchy appearance. It can be a reaction to advanced age or frequent sun exposure, pregnancy and cancer treatment. Hyperpigmentation has a negative impact on self-esteem. Indeed, efforts to reduce or eliminate it are not always met with good results. This is despite significant advances in invasive treatments such as chemical peels or laser treatments, as well as topical products in the form of bleaching creams and serums. Around the age of 50, more than 90% of people experience hyperpigmentation to varying degrees.
What causes hyperpigmentation:
- Excessive sun exposure
- Air pollution
- Acne scars
- Hormonal changes
- Skin inflammations
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Autoimmune, gastrointestinal diseases and metabolic disorders
- Use of medications (antibiotics, chemotherapy and seizure relievers)
- Genetic predispositions
Health problems caused by hyperpigmentation:
- Age spots (appear after age 40 on the forearms, back of the hands, décolletage and face)
- Melasma (the body's reaction to hormonal imbalances during pregnancy, menopause or heavy treatment, when spots appear mainly on the face)
- Vitiligo (melanin is missing and white spots appear on the body and mucous membranes)
- Albinism (pigment is completely absent)
CBD and hyperpigmentation
CBD can be of great help in hyperpigmentation and can alleviate the symptoms of skin problems thanks to its anti-inflammatory, soothing, moisturizing and antibacterial effects. However, research on CBD is ongoing and it is impossible to confirm exactly how cannabidiol affects the human body, what the contraindications are, what the exact daily dose is. Although the WHO has labelled CBD as a safe substance and user reviews speak only of a positive effect, it depends on the individual, their immune system, regular medication, body weight, hormonal balance or psyche. You need to track down the ideal amount and form of CBD and give the hemp compound enough time to take effect. After vaping or sublingual administration, you may feel the onset of effects almost immediately or within minutes, but it is recommended to wait a few weeks for lasting results.
Options for how CBD works on hyperpigmentation:
- Anti-inflammatory effects
CBD can be effective in fighting infections and inflammation, where it has a positive effect on skin conditions such as acne or various forms of eczema. On the one hand, it can alleviate the manifestations of these diseases, on the other it strengthens the skin's defences and prevents the development of further complications.
- Soothing and moisturising effects
Cannabidiol has the ability to soothe the skin and nourish the upper and deeper layers of the skin. It forms a strong film that allows it to regenerate better and allows the active ingredients to work to their full potential.
- Antibacterial properties
The antibacterial effects of CBD are increasingly being talked about. In some cases, cannabidiol can even replace antibiotics that are no longer effective. It destroys bacteria and prevents the spread of infection.
The sun is to blame
Hyperpigmentation is usually caused by several factors at once, but sun exposure is by far the most common cause. While sun exposure triggers the production of melanin, which naturally protects against UV rays and contributes to beautiful, healthy-looking skin in summer, frequent exposure to the sun causes melanin to fade and become the enemy. The natural process of melanin acting as a barrier against dangerous rays is disrupted, and hyperpigmentation begins to spread. The use of sunscreen is essential, as it is the only barrier that stands between the sun and sensitive skin.
Summary
Hyperpigmentation affects almost everyone in advanced age, and CBD can alleviate the symptoms of the disease by dampening inflammation and infection and creating a barrier that makes the skin much better protected.
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