Pros & Cons of Anti-Aging CBD Treatments for Wrinkles and Skincare
The appearance of wrinkles is one of the first signs of aging and distresses many people. Methods of reducing wrinkles abound from medical procedures to natural remedies. People invest a lot of money annually in trying to reduce the appearance of wrinkles so that they look younger. CBD may reduce the appearance of wrinkles, turning back the clock without much effort and few side effects.
Updated September 22, 2023.
As one of the first signs of aging, wrinkles are extremely distressing to many, and a lot of money is spent every year in the quest to reduce them. Though there are many products that claim to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, emerging research suggests that CBD oil may be a strong contender both as a standalone treatment as well as in combination with other remedies.
Read on to learn about the effectiveness of using CBD to reduce wrinkles and the best ways to do so.
Why Wrinkles Increase With Age
For all people, the production of collagen and elastin (two natural proteins that provide structure and support to your skin) declines with age, leading to looser skin, lower elasticity, less oil production, and wrinkles. In women, this is especially true after menopause.
There are also a number of external causes that will make wrinkle formation more abundant and/or worse, including sun exposure, alcohol, and smoking.
How Can CBD Combat Wrinkles?
There are a variety of ways that CBD can improve skin quality and reduce the appearance of wrinkles:
Antioxidant Properties
Oxidative stress, caused by aging and other external factors like sun damage and poor diet, can speed up the effects of aging on your skin.
CBD has antioxidant properties that combat free radicals, reducing cell damage (1). Cannabinoids can help achieve homeostasis by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, an essential system that regulates many of the body's functions.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Inflammation can also increase the rate of cell damage from aging as well as exacerbate inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Research suggests that CBD may have anti-inflammatory properties that can combat both of these effects (2).
» Learn more: natural remedies for inflammation
Stress and Sleep Quality
Emotional stress often reduces the amount of sleep we get, as well as sleep quality. Reduced sleep can increase inflammation in the body, negatively impacting skin and increasing the appearance of wrinkles. CBD oil/preparations may help to reduce stress and improve the quality of sleep (3).
» Need a natural sleep aid? See our collection of sleep support products
The Best Ways to Use CBD for Wrinkles
Ingestion of Oils, Capsules, or Edibles
Pros
- Lasting effect
- Ease of use
- Accurate dosing
- Generalised effect throughout the body
Cons
- Lower bioavailability
CBD oil can be ingested directly in the form of edibles and capsules or by ingesting the oil mixed in a drink or food. Having to go through your body's digestive system, this form of CBD will have the longest-lasting effect and easy dosing and implementation into your daily routine.
» Looking for a skin solution? See our Nurture Tablets
Sublingual Application of Tinctures or Oils
Pros
- High bioavailability
- Ease of use
- Accurate dosing
- Generalised effect throughout the body
Cons
- Unpleasant taste and texture
Using CBD oil sublingually is widely regarded as the most effective method of CBD due to its comparatively high bioavailability, accurate dosing, and simplicity in adding it to your daily routine. All you need is a small container with a dropper and you can take your CBD oil with you wherever you go.
Topical Creams and Lotions
Pros
- Localised effect
- Low risk of adverse reactions
- Great supporting treatment for other skin therapies
Cons
- Lowest bioavailability
- Difficulty with maintaining dosages
Topical preparations can be used and applied directly to the wrinkles (or all over the skin). These also have the advantage of moisturizing localised areas to reduce wrinkles and painful inflammation.
Vaping or Smoking
Pros
- High bioavailability
- Ease of use
Cons
- Risk of lung and airway damage
- Difficulty with maintaining dosages
- Short duration of effect
Although some people prefer to smoke or vape CBD oil, offering a high bioavailability, but the inevitable damage caused to your lungs and airways is not worth the trade-off. Those who already smoke or vape prior to using CBD oil may find benefit by using a CBD vape oil or flower, but if you don't smoke already, you shouldn't start just for CBD therapy.
» Struggling with wrinkles? See our range of anti-aging skincare products
Should You Take Any Precautions Before Using CBD?
All substances can have potential side effects and interactions with foods or other medications. Ingesting CBD oil can sometimes cause dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, or fatigue. CBD skin preparations can cause irritation in some people who have sensitive skin or an aversion to cannabinoids.
CBD can interact with some prescription medications (4). This can have the effect of either lowering the efficacy of CBD and pharmaceutical medication as well as increasing the risk and severity of side effects.
As a result, it is essential to look at the medications that a person is taking when starting any kind of alternative treatment. This is best done in consultation with a professional who will take an overview of the conditions being treated and all the medications, preparations, and dosages being used.
