How Does Cannabis Help Skin Conditions?

What Are The Key Properties of CBD That Make It Beneficial For Skin Health?

A comprehensive literature review, titled "Cannabidiol in Skin Health: A Comprehensive Review of Topical Applications in Dermatology and Cosmetic Science" and published in Biomolecules in August 2025, provides an updated look at the diverse applications of cannabidiol (CBD) for various skin conditions. The study explains that CBD interacts with the skin's endocannabinoid system via CB1 and CB2 receptors, giving it multiple beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects. While existing evidence suggests its potential for treating conditions from acne to alopecia and cancer, the review also emphasizes that challenges remain, particularly the need for more data on its long-term effects.

What Beneficial Properties Do Cannabinoids Exhibit That Could Help with Atopic Dermatitis (AD) Symptoms?

Atopic dermatitis can result in itching, dry skin, and inflammation from the loss of function of the skin barrier.

Researchers concluded from a recent study that though results can be contradictory, there is substantial therapeutic potential for cannabinoids as a complementary treatment for AD, in medicinal products and as active ingredients in cosmetic products.

Some noteworthy findings from the review included:

• Cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabichromene (CBC) have shown potential for anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties
• One study examined CBD in increasing antioxidant mechanisms activity and helping reduce the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)
• Formulations containing CBD and THC showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, S. aureus, and Paenibacillus larvae
• Oral administration of cannabinoids was examined as a possibly viable method compared to topical application

How Might CBD Help in Treating Acne?

There is a growing body of scientific literature demonstrating that topically applied cannabinoids may provide therapeutic benefits by either relieving pain or alleviating symptoms of skin conditions. “There have been human studies showing benefits of topical cannabis preparations in a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal symptoms like TMJ pain and sports-related pain, as well as dermatological conditions like acne, eczema, and wound healing,” said Dustin Sulak, DO, Founder of Healer. “There is also clinical evidence of systemic absorption of topically-applied cannabinoids for systemic conditions like peripheral neuropathy and Fragile X syndrome (2). Preclinical studies show many more benefits, including UV light protection, anticancer effects, and more.”

Other studies show that acne, characterized by high production of sebum and chronic inflammation, may be treated by inhibiting the CB2 receptors, resulting in suppression of basal lipid production.