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CBD has become one of beauty's biggest commodities. When news first spread, we were sceptical, assuming it would be another fad. But with a recent report finding that sales of CBD products have increased by a whopping 99%, and purchases near doubling in 2019, it looks like it is definitely here to stay.
You may not be acquainted with any CBD products, nor know of the benefits - and that's ok, this is where we come in. Yes, it's on the rise, but CBD formulas are still relatively niche, so it helps if you know exactly what you're looking for before splashing the cash.
Now for a speedy science lesson: CBD is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on your smoking stance) it isn't THC so it won't get you high. It can however reduce pain and inflammation, including skin conditions like acne and eczema and is a known source of antioxidants. Our bodies have natural receptors for cannabis extracts, so they can get to work fast, which is why they're so sought after in skincare.
Delve into the wonderful world of CBD and you'll see some ingredient discrepancy - CBD oil and hemp oil are not actually the same thing, although many brands market them as such. Hemp oil contains trace amounts of CBD which, although considered to be insignificant, still work wonders on our skin, so, heads up, we've decided to include them, too.
Take a scroll through our edit of the best products and get to know the good stuff...
New kid on the block CBVIT's formulas contain a blend of nourishing natural oils and premium grade CBD. Aside from their broad-spectrum oils, their Active Hemp Ointment is undoubtedly our favourite. If, like us, your hands currently feel like sandpaper from excessive washing, this balm is about to be your best friend. It treats a myriad of reactive skin conditions, including eczema, severe dryness, psoriasis and scars. It's also a powerful pain reliever and smells like heaven thanks to an infusion of rosemary, lemon peel and macadamia oil.
This full spectrum CBD oil contains the highest quality European organic grown Cannabis Sativa L extract available in the UK. It works incredibly fast, and is the first thing you should turn to when you're desperate to nod off at night. Put 2-5 drops (depending on your tolerance) beneath your tongue and leave for 90 seconds before swallowing.
Herbivore Emerald Deep Moisture Glow Oil 30ml, £42
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls; let me formally introduce you to this glow-booting elixir from supreme skincare brand Herbivore. Their first cannabis-infused offering, a blend of restorative oils: hemp seed, meadowfoam seed and borage seed, work alongside powerful antioxidants ashwagandha, turmeric and shiitake mushrooms to protect, revitalise and hydrate. They feel so strongly about the life-changing benefits of cannabis that in the US, every Emerald sale sees $1 donated to women-owned cannabis organisations.
A potent percentage of CBD makes this oil a powerhouse against anxiety, insomnia and stress. Because of its strength, it's recommended you start off ingesting a single drop to start, then monitoring how you respond. You can then adjust the amount over the next few weeks accordingly.
The Body Shop's best selling hand cream - and for good reason, this 100% natural salve softens and saves dry hands faster than you can say weed. You can use it on other areas that are super dry, too. It has been dermatologically tested, so is safe for sensitive and reactive skins. We wouldn't dream of leaving the house without it.
Banish dry, flakey bods in a flash with this hydrating cream. A stellar line up of organic hemp, aloe, avocado and almond oil provide intensive hydration that lasts. It's rich, but absorbs quickly, so you won't be sat twiddling your thumbs after applying.
Milk Makeup's Kush is not just any old wand. The first ever to be formulated with cannabis oil, it is the most moisturising mascara yet (clumps? Never heard of them). Volume? Check. Curl? Check. Long lasting? Check. It really is a cut above the rest.
Great skincare at affordable prices are what the Inkey List do best. This offering is an all-rounder, thanks to its lightweight yet nourishing consistency that delivers hydration deep into the skin. Omegas 3 and 6 plump and protect parched complexions, while added antioxidant green tea calms and soothes. Not a clogged pore in sight.
With rave reviews claiming to help everything from insomnia to chronic pain to inflammatory skin conditions, this little bottle of oil is not to be underestimated. Unlike many CBD oils, this one can be ingested as well as used topically. Smart, huh? Put two drops beneath your tongue and wait for the magic to happen.
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