We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
Acne is a widespread skin condition that can cause painful bumps and pimples. Cannabidiol (CBD) may help reduce inflammation and decrease the amount of sebum the skin produces, leading to less acne.
This article discusses the current research on CBD and acne, lists some CBD products that people may find effective, their risks and side effects, and other natural remedies for acne.
Is CBD legal? Hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are legal federally but still illegal under some state laws. Cannabis-derived CBD products, on the other hand, are illegal federally but legal under some state laws. Check local legislation, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have not approved nonprescription CBD products, which may be inaccurately labeled.
Acne is a common skin condition that can cause inflamed and painful pimples, pustules, and bumps. While there is a range of traditional acne treatments available, there is some promising evidence that CBD may help reduce the amount and severity of acne.
A 2017 review found that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. This may help calm the skin and reduce inflammation that acne can cause.
Similarly, a 2014 study explored CBD’s effect on sebocytes, which are the cells that produce the oily, waxy sebum that leads to acne.
When a person overproduces sebum, they are more likely to have acne. This study found that CBD stopped the cells from overproducing sebum, which may help reduce acne.
However, while CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce sebum production look promising, few studies have explored CBD’s effect on acne.
While CBD may help acne, it is important to remember that researchers still need to conduct more studies to determine precisely what effect CBD has on acne and what side effects may occur.
Current research into CBD does not differentiate between products regarding which type may be better for a particular condition. However, some CBD products contain ingredients that can benefit specific conditions.
Some people with acne may find the following products beneficial.
Please note, the writer of this article has not tried the following products. All information presented is research-based.
Shopping for CBD products can be overwhelming. Read our complete buyer’s guide here.
Social CBD Rest CBD Body Lotion
This product contains 300 milligrams (mg) of CBD extract per bottle and is non-greasy, non-stick, and fast-absorbing.
It contains magnesium, arnica, shea butter, coconut, and argan oil, alongside lavender, chamomile, and bergamot essential oils to calm the skin and mind before bed.
This product has ingredients that the company sources from the United States and contains no THC.
The company recommend using this body lotion before bed.
Social CBD Rest CBD Body Lotion is available for purchase online.
cbdMD Gummies + Vitamin C
Each of these gummies contains 25 mg of CBD and 10 mg of vitamin C. According to Nutrients, vitamin C may contain properties relating to inflammation that can benefit the skin.
They use CBD isolate from USA hemp, meaning these gummies do not contain any THC.
The company state that these gummies are vegan- and gluten-free. Additional ingredients include organic tapioca syrup and organic cane sugar.
cbdMD Gummies + Vitamin C are available for purchase online.
Liftmode Hemp CBD Gummies – Collagen
This product contains over 98% CBD, 0% THC, and collagen derived from coldwater fish that promotes clearer, healthier skin.
The company recommend taking 2 gummies up to twice a day or as a healthcare provider directs.
People who are under the age of 18, pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition should not use this product.
Liftmode Hemp CBD Gummies are available for purchase online.
Lazarus Naturals Soothing Mint Full-Spectrum CBD Balm
This product contains 50 mg of CBD per half teaspoon, as well as organic oils, beeswax, and mango butter. This balm has a peppermint fragrance and soothes inflammation, and may help reduce pain.
It contains full-spectrum CBD, which means it contains all compounds from the cannabis plant, including THC.
The company third-party tests each of their products for effectiveness and safety.
The company recommend that people apply the balm as needed over any area that needs soothing.
Lazarus Natural Soothing Mint Full Spectrum CBD Balm is available for purchase online.
There are several different herbal remedies for acne that people may find beneficial. Some products derived from medicinal plants that may help reduce symptoms of acne include:
- creams that contain tannins, from plants such as white oak’s bark and walnut leaf
- vitex agnus-castus extract, which is not suitable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- 50% aloe vera gel
- 2% green tea lotion
- onion extract gel, which can reduce the appearance of acne scars
- aqueous rosemary lotion
- tea-tree oil
- eucalyptus extract
All of these medicinal plants and extracts have anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce sebum production, reducing acne symptoms.
Acne is a common skin condition that affects a lot of people in the United States and worldwide. Acne can be painful and cause inflammation of the skin.
There is evidence that CBD can reduce inflammation, pain, and acne development by stopping the sebaceous glands from overproducing sebum.