Our skin is one of our greatest protectors. It acts as a shield, warding off bacteria, germs and toxic substances. It also shields us from harmful ultraviolet rays by producing vitamin D. Skin could also be considered a thermostat, helping to maintain a consistent body temperature. Without skin, we’d be susceptible to any number of conditions or illnesses. How we treat skin is important. When you get eczema, psoriasis or an unexplained rash, you may head to a doctor to get a prescription to rid your skin of the nuisance. But, hold on a second. As is often the case, medication comes with questionable success and side effects.
Maybe consider CBD as a potential skin aid. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a nonsychoactive derivative of hemp, which means it doesn’t cause the high that its cousin THC causes. Using it on skin rashes such as eczema, psoriasis and other rashes is a healthy alternative to harsh medicines. CBD has been used for thousands of years in Latin America and India to treat skin conditions. In the instance of skin rash, topicals are probably more effective than CBD oil or other ingestibles. They come in the form of balms, salves, lotions and creams. Just exactly how does CBD help soothe skin conditions? Glad you asked.
Why use CBD for rash?
Rashes come in a plethora of forms and for just as many reasons, which I won’t enumerate here. Using CBD topicals on skin is beneficial for many reasons. It promotes moisture and relieves dryness. It adds essentials vitamins and fatty acids to the skin that help promote elasticity and wards off infection. Using CBD for rash is especially beneficial and here’s why.
It’s an anti-inflammatory and an anti-microbial, and a rash is in essence an inflammation. Usually a rash presents as red, scaly, itchy patches on skin or scalp. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can relieve the intensity of the inflammation and soothe the itch. But it also interacts with the endocannabinoid system we all have in our bodies. This system promotes balance in the immune system. Rashes often occur because of a compromised immune system and calming inflammation and helping to regulate the immune system is important in itself. In addition, the moisturizing effect on skin further enhances the healing properties of CBD topicals.
Rash can also be the result of allergens, stress, anxiety or change in hormones. Once again, CBD is known for its anti-anxiety and antibacterial properties. So whether you’ve come in physical contact with a substance that is toxic to you, or there are hormonal or emotional instabilities, CBD is a safer alternative than something such as steroids or other medicines used to eradicate rashes.
Finally, CBD has anti-itch and anti-drying properties. Scratching, as anyone who’s had a rash knows, can cause the rash to break open, ooze and expand. Plus, not itching constantly is a reward in itself. Because CBD topicals usually contain coconut oil, essential oils and carrier oils, it moisturizes skin. Dry skin can cause itching, and as I’ve noted, itching can spread the condition, so the two work hand in hand to soothe your rash and help heal it.
What skin conditions can CBD help?
Common conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, poison ivy, hives or athletes foot respond well to CBD topicals. So does acne, rosacea, scaly dry skin, dermatitis and cold sores. Plus, the itching from bug bites also abates when you apply CBD.
Apply the topical generously to the affected area. Massage until it is fully absorbed to help it go to work faster. You can safely apply CBD as often as necessary because there have been no reported side effects associated with the products. Just be sure what you are buying. I know, I sound like a broken record, but not all CBD products live up to their claims. Make sure you are getting a product that is infused with organic, high-quality CBD that doesn’t contain alcohol, or other impurities. Reputable companies will clearly state what is in their products as well as provide evidence of the purity and whether the CBD has been tested by a third-party lab. Do your homework and do your skin some good.