6 WAYS IN WHICH CBD SUPPORTS TREATMENT OF SKIN DISORDERS

Inflammation is a part of the immune process which happens when the body is combating harmful stimuli like pathogens or irritants. Sometimes, the body can misidentify an irritant (or the self as an irritant), mistakenly causing inflammation in regions of the body. Reoccurring skin inflammation is a common problem among patients with dermatological diseases. CBD helps to restore homeostasis in the body, supporting the immune system in maintaining its correct function, including correct recognition of irritants. CBD has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which means that CBD-based therapies are useful in treatment of skin inflammation (2;3).

Sebaceous glands are located in the skin, which are responsible for the production of an oily and waxy substance known as sebum. This sebum contributes to the formation of the physicochemical barrier, which protects against microbe and other external irritants entering the body. Sebaceous glands misfunction can result in e.g. acne (if glands produce too much sebum) or atopic dermatitis (if glands do not produce enough sebum). CBD has been shown to have a modulatory effect on sebaceous glands, meaning that it can regulate the amount of sebum being produced. This modulatory ability, combined with its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, makes it a promising substance in acne and atopic dermatitis treatment (1).

Pain is an unpleasant feeling brought on by intense or damaging stimuli. Chronic inflammatory disease can lead to pain, which can make day to day life of patients unbearable. Cannabidiol has been shown to have an analgesic effect (4), and since it helps to reduce the inflammation and ease the itch, it can lead to a long-term relief from the pain of the lesions. Moreover, cannabinoids may be especially effective in inhibiting chronic pain in comparison to the acute pain.

Wound healing is a complex process that involves the repair of skin or other body tissues after injury. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been proven to have antibacterial and antifungal effects (5). Combined with its aforementioned supportive qualities in skin barrier development, CBD can aid in the process of wound healing in patients with psoriasis and dermatitis.

Psoriasis is a skin disorder which causes skin cells to multiply faster than normally, resulting in a skin build up into red, flaky patches and causing itch and discomfort. Research suggests that CBD has a potential in psoriasis treatment, due to its ability to inhibit the process of skin cell proliferation, meaning that it slows down and normalizes the skin cell growth process (6).

Itchiness is a common struggle among sufferers of dermatological diseases. The severity of this symptom is multifold, not only does it cause discomfort, but also sleeplessness and scratching (1) which can further harm the skin. CBD, applied topically, has been shown to help eczema and psoriasis patients, by clearing the lesions and providing relief from the itch (1). Since itch causes both physical and mental discomfort, treatment of this symptom is a crucial part of eczema and psoriasis therapies.