The beauty industry is booming and is now packed with hemp-infused products, and CBD skincare has become one of the hottest subsections of the cosmetic industry. Of the ever-growing catalogue of CBD products, creams, lotions and salves are some of the most popular new items.
These phytocannabinoid-rich topicals all have one thing in common: They promote healthy skin because of the way they support the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
In prior blog posts we’ve discussed the Endocannabinoid System and how CBD works through it to promote homeostasis. Today we will dive deeper to examine, specifically, the ECS and the skin, how they work together to improve dermatological health and how CBD topicals work.
The Endocannabinoid System Explained
Referred to as “one of the most important physiological systems,” the ECS is interconnected with various functions throughout the body including mood, memory, sleep, digestive function, metabolism, appetite, and more.
At the most basic level, the ECS consists of the following:
- Two naturally occurring endocannabinoids: anandamide and 2-AG.
- Enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids, such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase.
- Two cannabinoid receptors, known as CB1 and CB2.
While CB1 receptors are primarily found on neurons, CB2 receptors are primarily found in immune cells. The number of CB2 receptors found in immune cells, for example, are 10 to 100 times greater than in CB1 receptors.
Research shows that the main functions of the ECS are to support homeostasis, emotional response, mood, and appetite.
The Endocannabinoid System and the Skin
Since the discovery of the ECS in the 1990s, there has been significant research on this system and how it works. A 2009 article published in Trends of Pharmacological Sciences revealed studies that suggest a functional ECS is contained in the skin.
What exactly does the skin’s ECS do? Research suggests that the skin’s ECS is associated with several different biological processes, including growth, hormone production, mediation of various skin cells (such as hair follicles and sebaceous glands) and apoptosis (death of skin cells).
What does all this mean? Put simply, the ECS plays a huge role in skin health!
Under the Skin Explained: The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Skin
Studies suggest that the primary physiological function of the skin’s ECS is to control the growth, maturation, and survival of skin cells. The ECS also plays a large role in the skin’s ability to produce a normal response to potential pathogens or free radicals.
CB1 and CB2 Receptors in the Skin
Both CB1 and CB2 receptors have been observed in several types of human skin cells, including cutaneous nerve fibers, mast cells, epidermal keratinocytes, and adnexal tissue cells.
CB2 receptors in the skin can be found concentrated in human sebaceous glands, small oil-producing glands 
found in the skin. Sebaceous glands are typically attached to hair follicles and responsible for the discharge of sebum. In hair follicles, you’ll find a complete expression of CB2 receptors.
The endocannabinoids known as anandamide and 2-AG are found in both sebaceous glands and hair follicles. In addition, TRPV1 (vanilloid receptor 1), which is associated with sensory occurrences such as itching and heat, has also been found in human skin cells.
Simply put, the skin is lined with cannabinoid receptors and the skin’s ECS is a fully functioning physiological system. It’s a primary factor in skin cell growth and development and is responsible for maintaining the delicate balance of skin in homeostasis.
CBD Topicals and Skincare
The potential for cannabinoids to support ECS health can lead us to a better understanding of why CBD topicals have become so popular in skincare. Here we’ll look at what you need to know when choosing CBD topicals, as well as some of the best options around.
What To Look For When Choosing CBD Topicals
Countless cosmetic items are formulated with additives such as fragrances and dyes. Even some CBD lotions and creams contain questionable ingredients, so it’s important to read the labels when shopping for CBD products. Like some creams and lotions without hemp extract, CBD topicals run the risk of containing a host of synthetic ingredients.
These additives can have chemical reactions with other ingredients in the product, including the active cannabinoids. These reactions can alter the overall potency of the CBD in a product, reducing its potency and effectiveness.
Make sure you are buying CBD creams and lotions made with all-natural ingredients. Look for those that contain essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances. Both the terpenes in broad spectrum hemp extract and those found in essential oils can enhance the effects of CBD. It is also important to look for CBD topicals that have been third-party lab tested to ensure purity and quality.
The best CBD topicals are all natural and free from harsh chemical additives. We Understand the importance of purity which is why we’ve formulated our entire line of CBD topicals with all-natural ingredients created to support skin health, whether you’re using a cream to support healthy skin or one that’s formulated to support healthy muscles and joints before, during, or after your workout.
Purelix Wellness Topical CBD Products
At Purelix Wellness, we’ve created a line of all-natural CBD topicals designed to support healthy skin, muscles and joints. To serve a variety of different needs, we’ve carefully selected the following products for our exclusive line of CBD topicals:
CBD Cream– Our one ounce CBD Cream comes in a handy pump and is formulated to support healthy skin. This luxurious cream contains 250mg of Premium CBD, organic olive oil, organic glycerin, safflower oleosomes (the fatty parts of the cell) and organic aloe leaf juice.
CBD Salve
– Our THC-free CBD Salve contains a soothing mixture of Phytocannabinoid-Rich Hemp Extract, Organic Lavender Essential Oil and Organic Eucalyptus Essential Oil. Rub this aromatic blend into skin to promote healthy skin, joints and muscles. Therapeutic AND luxurious!
CBD Sports Cream – Our CBD Sports Cream is formulated to support healthy muscles and offer relief for tired, stiff bodies. Massage it in before, during or after a workout to experience relief throughout your day. With 400mg of Premium CBD, menthol and camphor, our 4oz pump container is a new essential for any wellness routine. Vegan and THC-free!
CBD Salve Stick– Looking for an unscented topical that’s easy to carry and fuss-free? Our THC-Free, twist-up CBD Salve Stick is what you’ve been looking for.
CBD Cream for Pets
– CBD topicals are the perfect way to help your furry friends deal with pain, skin irritations, insect bites and wound care. Our soothing THC-free CBD Cream comes in a pump and contains 250mg of CBD, organic olive oil, organic glycerin, safflower oleosomes (the fatty parts of the cell) and organic aloe leaf juice. All safe for pets!
CBD Salve Stick – Our soothing twist-up salve stick delivers a THC-free blend of phytocannabinoid-rich hemp extract and safe organic butters and oils. Great for “hot spots“!
Because we always use broad spectrum hemp oil, our customers benefit from many of the naturally occurring components of the hemp plant combined with CBD. The additional benefit of these compounds is commonly called the “entourage effect”. Our third-party lab results ensure transparency and product quality.
CBD TOPICALS FAQs
Why are CBD topicals so popular?
CBD topicals have taken the world by storm for a good reason. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and it comes with its own endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors. CBD creams and lotions allow you to rub phytocannabinoids directly into the skin, making CBD topicals an excellent addition to any beauty or wellness routine.
What does the endocannabinoid system do for the skin?
Endocannabinoid research has revealed that the skin contains its very own portion of the ECS. The primary function of the ECS in the skin is very similar to the ECS that’s found throughout the rest of the body: to promote homeostasis and offer optimal health.
The ECS in the skin influences the production, development, and survival of skin cells. Several studies suggest that supporting the ECS could be beneficial for the skin in many different ways. Manipulation of the skin’s ECS has led to changes in skin cell growth and production or discharge of sebum.
How strong is CBD cream?
CBD topicals come in a variety of strengths. Many lower-strength topicals may not offer significant benefits. Purelix Wellness products are formulated with the level of potency we believe will be most effective while also remaining affordable for many.
Our topicals are formulated to be powerful, with strengths varying from 100mg to 500mg of CBD per ounce. We combine our broad spectrum CBD with top-quality waxes, carrier oils, and essential oils to maximize the benefits of hemp extract.
How to use CBD cream:
We recommend applying topicals as needed throughout the day. With our topicals, simply rub the cream or salve onto the desired area whenever you want the benefits of homeostasis in your muscles, joints, or skin.
While further research is certainly warranted, current studies conducted on the ECS and skin offer an eye-opening view into the integral role the ECS plays in skin health and how cannabinoids like CBD topicals might support it.
