CBD for Dry Skin: Are the Side Effects Worth It?

CBD oil is growing in popularity as a way to treat various skin conditions and is especially beneficial for relieving itching and skin dryness. Although inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema have no cure, there are treatments available to reduce inflammation and manage the symptoms. Many pharmaceutical medications carry a risk of side effects and addiction, but is this true for CBD oil?

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Common Side Effects of CBD

The side effects of CBD are dose-dependent and may include:

• diarrhea
• changes in appetite
• changes in weight
• fatigue
• drowsiness
• dry mouth

However, the severity of these side effects is not high and not particularly common, and studies have found that CBD is well tolerated by most individuals, even at doses up to 1,000mg/day (1).

Beware of Interactions Between CBD and Medications

One potential factor that must be taken into account is the risk of drug-drug interactions between CBD and pharmaceutical medication. Taking these substances congruently increases the risk of side effects and may also lower the efficacy of both.

How CBD Reduces Dry Skin

CBD may be beneficial for reducing potential triggers of eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. It works by:

1. Impacting the Endocannabinoid System Positively

Your endocannabinoid system is a widespread neuromodulatory system that plays a regulatory role in physiological body functions such as immune response, mood, stress, and sleep.

The cannabinoids in CBD oil react strongly with your endocannabinoid system and can influence the effectiveness of certain functions, potentially relieving itchiness and discomfort.

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2. Reducing Immune Response

The skin inflammation in autoimmune skin conditions results from your immune system attacking the body's own cells. CBD oil is believed to be immunomodulatory and interacts with the overactive white blood cells to calm your immune system (2).

» Learn more: Treating Inflammatory Psoriasis With CBD and Medicinal Mushrooms

Final Verdict: Are the Side Effects Worth It?

Though there are many benefits of CBD for inflammatory skin conditions, it is not without risk and the side effects should be taken into account. However, in most people, CBD is a great way to rejuvenate your dry skin and carries a comparatively low risk of side effects compared to pharmaceuticals.

If you are still concerned, consult your doctor before using CBD or adding any new supplements alongside your existing medication.