Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when skin cells multiply too quickly, leading to thick, scaly patches of inflamed skin. Traditional treatments such as creams, light therapy, and medications are commonly used to manage psoriasis, but many people are exploring natural alternatives. One potential option that’s gaining popularity is cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. The term "cannabis plant" includes both hemp and marijuana, the only difference being the amount of THC found in each plant. A cannabis plant is legally deemed "hemp" by our federal government if it has less than 0.3% THC in it and if a cannabis plant has 0.3% THC in it or more, it's considered a marijuana plant.
In this article, we’ll take a look at how CBD might help those living with psoriasis, based on insights from a recent article on HealthCentral, and how Empower BodyCare’s CBD topicals can be a beneficial addition to your body care routine.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly accelerates the production of skin cells. Normally, skin cells grow and shed over a period of weeks, but in people with psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days. The result is an accumulation of skin cells, leading to inflamed, red patches covered by dry, silvery scales.
While the exact cause of psoriasis is still unclear, it’s thought to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Common triggers include stress, skin injuries, certain medications, and infections. Treatment often involves the use of topical steroids, vitamin D analogs, or biologics, but alternative approaches like CBD are increasingly being considered by researchers and medical professionals.
The Science Behind CBD and Psoriasis
CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it appealing to people with skin conditions like psoriasis. The human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps regulate various physiological processes, including immune response and inflammation, and CBD interacts with receptors in the ECS, possibly influencing these processes.
According to HealthCentral, early research suggests that CBD may help slow down the rapid production of skin cells, which is one of the main problems in psoriasis. Additionally, CBD’s interaction with skin receptors could help ease the itching and discomfort associated with the condition. Although more research is needed, these potential benefits make CBD a topic of interest for those seeking more natural ways to manage psoriasis symptoms.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Psoriasis
While more research is necessary, there are several reasons why CBD is gaining attention for potential psoriasis management:
- Possible Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Inflammation is at the heart of psoriasis symptoms, and CBD has been shown in some studies to possess anti-inflammatory properties. This might make CBD useful for calming the inflamed, red patches of skin that psoriasis sufferers deal with. When applied to the skin, CBD interacts with a number of receptor sites that, in pre-clinical studies, have been found to reduce inflammation and help promote homeostasis in the skin, which could be beneficial for those suffering from psoriasis. The receptors involved are called TRPV1 and PPAR-gamma, accompanied by a pro-inflammatory enzyme, TNF-alpha. When CBD is applied to the skin, it interacts with these receptors according to early research.
- Itch and Discomfort Relief
People with psoriasis often experience itching and discomfort during flare-ups. CBD’s interaction with receptors in the skin might help reduce these sensations, potentially providing relief from the urge to scratch, which can worsen the condition.
- Hydration and Moisture
Properly moisturizing the skin is key to managing psoriasis, as dry skin can exacerbate flare-ups. CBD topicals are often formulated with hydrating ingredients like jojoba oil, shea butter, and aloe vera, helping to nourish the skin and maintain its moisture barrier.
- A Natural Approach
For those who are looking for a natural, plant-based option, CBD topicals may provide an alternative to synthetic or harsh treatments. Many people are turning to CBD for its gentle, non-psychoactive properties that fit into a holistic wellness routine.
How Empower BodyCare’s CBD Topicals May Support Your Routine
Empower BodyCare offers a line of high-quality, hemp-derived CBD products that may be a great addition to your body skincare regimen. Currently, we don't offer any skincare products for the face, just the body. But the skin on our bodies deserves the best as well, doesn't it? While we don’t make any medical claims about our products, we believe in using the highest-quality ingredients to support overall skin health and wellness.
Empower BodyCare products are made with a blend of skin-nourishing ingredients like organic jojoba oil and non-GMO vitamin E oil, combined with hemp-derived CBD to create a luxurious experience for your skin. All of our products are third-party lab tested for purity and potency, ensuring that you’re getting clean and consistent products every time.
Empower CBD-Infused Lotion
Our CBD-infused lotion and cream is designed to be light and non-greasy, making it ideal for everyday use. Formulated with high-quality CBD and hydrating ingredients, it can be applied to affected areas to promote overall skin wellness. Its smooth texture allows for easy application, leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed. A small amount of this CBD lotion goes a very long way.
Empower CBD Soaking Salts
For a relaxing full-body experience, try our CBD Luxury Soaking Salts. When added to a warm bath, they help create a soothing environment, allowing your body to unwind after a long day. Combined with the gentle, hydrating effects of CBD, our soaking salts can be a calming and relaxing addition to your self-care routine.
Empower CBD-Infused Oil
Our CBD Luxury Body Oil offers another option for skin nourishment. Whether used as a massage oil or applied directly to specific areas, the oil combines CBD with a blend of natural moisturizers, like organic jojoba oil. Organic jojoba oil is the most like our own skin sebum or skin oils, so it absorbs more quickly and penetrates the skin layers more deeply than any other plant-based oil. Jojoba oil is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Our Luxury CBD Body Oil's lightweight formula makes it perfect for daily use, especially after drying off after a bath or shower. Also, remember that with any CBD topical product, (to be used on the skin) you will get better results if you apply a small amount for every application, rub it all the way into the skin, and reapply until the desired results are achieved.
A Holistic Skincare Approach for the Body
At Empower BodyCare, we believe in supporting your skin’s natural balance with products that focus on quality and purity. While we don’t claim to treat or cure any medical conditions, our CBD-infused products are crafted to help you feel confident in your body or skincare routine for your body.
For individuals managing psoriasis, CBD topicals may be an option worth exploring as part of a larger self-care strategy. Always consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any new products into your routine, particularly if you’re using prescription medications or have underlying health conditions.
Conclusion
Psoriasis can be a challenging condition to manage, and while traditional treatments are available, many are exploring natural alternatives like CBD. CBD’s potential to reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and hydrate the skin may offer a promising complement to your existing body skincare routine.
At Empower BodyCare, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality, hemp-derived CBD products that support overall skin wellness. Our lotions, oils, and soaking salts are designed with care and an attention to ethical sourcing, synergistic ingredients, and user experience to promote healthier skin and a better sense of well-being.
Though much more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between CBD and psoriasis, incorporating high-quality CBD topicals into your skincare regimen may be a step toward a more balanced, natural approach to managing your skin.
Study: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667026722000017#bib25
Additional resources: https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriasis/cbd-psoriasis/how-cbd-might-help-treat-psoriasis