Skin-soothing benefits make these natural wonders work incorporation
into your routine.
By Lisa Desantis
What are they?
Phytocannabinoids are compounds produced by the cannabis
plant; more than 110 different types of cannabinoids have been identified. You
have heard of ones like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which as psychoactive
effects- A.K.A. the “high” associated with marijuana - or CBD (cannabidiol).
Its nonpsychoactive counterpart that may help relieve pain and inflammation.
But there are many more that are starting to be studied. Some of these
compounds may have health and wellness benefits, and others may prove to be
powerful in skin care, cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN) among them.
How do they work in
skincare?
While each cannabinoid brings particular benefits, companies
are now offering products with combos of them. “The intention of combining
cannabinoids is to provide each of their benefits in a synergistic manner “says
Julius Few, MD, a plastic surgeon in Chicago and founder of Afore Beauty. This
even has a name: the entourage effect- the enhanced advantages that come from
two or more of the plant’s compounds working together.
Cannabididiol (CBD)
It’s often tapped for potential anti-inflammatory benefits
and its potent blend of antioxidants, which are responsible for fighting free
radicals. Because cannabinoids have nourishing/ soothing properties, CBD can
also help in repairing the skin barrier (if the barrier is impaired, the result
could be irritation, a full-on breakout, or an eczema flare-up).
Cannabigerol (CBG)
“In the industry, it’s known as the “stem cell of
cannabinoids, “says Sarah Mirsini, founder of cannabinoid- infused skin-care
brand Mask, “ because it’s the very first compound that is created in the
plant, even before THC. “ She notes that there are fewer studies on it, but
early research suggests antibacterial and moisture retention properties.
Cannabinol (CBN)
As with CBD, CBN apparently binds to receptors that calm
inflammation, Ava Shamban, MD, a dermatologist in Beverly Hills, explains, “It
may also reduce blemishes, balance sebum production, and assist with cell
turnover.” Mirsini adds that CBN is gaining traction in psoriasis treatment,
too.
