Are There Any Side Effects of Using CBD Cream?

Even though CBD cream rarely causes any side effects, some individuals have reported getting unwanted reactions such as skin irritation and redness. Herein you will learn what a CBD cream is, its side effects and how to minimize the side effects.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally existing cannabinoid in the hemp plant. Both marijuana and hemp plants are a strain of the cannabis Sativa plant. However, hemp is rich in CBD and low on tetrahydrocannabinol(THC), the compound responsible for the kaleidoscopic effect. Hence the reason CBD is majorly extracted from it. CBD is quickly gaining traction in the cannabis industry due to its non-psychoactive nature. It also boasts multiple health benefits, such as improving sleep conditions, pain relief, and anxiety alleviation. There are numerous CBD formulations such as oils, vapes, and topicals (creams and lotions). Since it is a natural-based compound, many might wonder if its products contain any adverse effects. This article explicitly explains the side effects of using CBD cream.

CBD Cream- What It Is

CBD cream is one of the topical products infused with cannabidiol oil as its primary active ingredient. It contains revitalizing, moisturizing and hydrating properties that leave the skin soft and supple. Peyravian et al. (2022) argued that CBD cream contains analgesic properties that alleviate symptoms of various skin conditions such as acne. Furthermore, this cream may help deal with various body pains like joints. However, more research is needed to confirm whether it is as effective as regular painkillers.

CBD cream is available in three forms; full spectrum, isolate, and broad spectrum. What differentiates them is their potency and chemical compositions. Before purchasing a CBD cream, determine the effects you desire. Marinotti et al. (2020) noted that full spectrum CBD cream consists of multiple cannabinoids in the hemp plant. They include flavonoids, terpenes, and even THC. However, its THC levels are significantly low because they do not exceed 0.3 percent. Anand et al. (2021) showed that due to the entourage effects, it is the most potent type, whereby all the other cannabinoids work in tandem with CBD to boost its therapeutic properties.

On the other hand, the broad-spectrum CBD cream is a perfect combination of the full spectrum and isolate cream. De Almeida et al.(2020) stated that it contains all cannabinoids except THC. Isolate CBD cream is the most refined form. All the other chemical compounds were extracted from the plant leaving behind CBD.

CBD Cream Side Effects

CBD is advantageous over other cannabinoids since most body types tolerate it well. Additionally, it is plant-based and hence rarely causes any side effects. It is among the safest products that can help address various skin issues such as acne and dry skin and, at the same time, revitalize the skin. Since it is applied topically for external relief, it does not enter the body. This means its side effects are only experienced outside the body. However, like other topical products, it has its cons. The side effects experienced when using CBD cream are not due to cannabidiol but maybe an allergic reaction to the other added ingredients like Vitamin C  and hyaluronic acid. Some of its adverse effects include but are not limited to:

• Rash
• Skin irritation
• Redness
• Dry skin
• Skin blistering

To avoid the above effects, before using the cream, inspect its package correctly. Furthermore, performing a patch test on a small area on your skin may be pretty helpful too. You should also get evaluated by a dermatologist to know if there are any underlying health conditions or allergies and if you are taking other additional medications that may interfere with its working.

How to Minimize CBD Cream Side Effects

Before purchasing CBD cream, please note important factors to look out for from the purchasers, which we will discuss later in this section. Since the CBD market is not regulated, most manufacturers and brands are taking advantage of that and producing low-quality CBD products. However, you can avoid this by :

Purchasing From a Company That Has Proof of Third Party Lab Test Results

Third-party lab test results confirm the product's quality. A legitimate brand will always offer authentic lab reports on its website for its consumers to access without difficulty. If you browse its website and do not see any lab reports get in touch with the brand immediately. These lab reports show if a product is safe or not. It also analyzes the product's contamination levels.

Read the Ingredients Carefully

The side effects experienced when using a CBD cream are due to the other ingredients. Go for a product whose additional ingredients won't cause any unwanted reaction on the skin. Avoid a product containing glycol or propylene since it harms the skin. Go for Ingredients such as melatonin and MCT oil offer additional advantages such as combatting sleeping issues.

Choosing a Reputable Brand

Before purchasing a CBD cream, consider the brand's reputation. What are other customers saying about their products? Are there recommendations practical? Do they offer dosage suggestions? A transparent brand will always offer answers to the above questions and not leave its consumers second-guessing its products. Additionally, they should always assist their consumers if they have more product inquiries.

Knowing the Origin of the Hemp

A good CBD brand offers information on the product's origin and manufacturing. Some of the factors to consider include: which hemp plant was used and, how it was grown, the extraction and production process it underwent. There are various types of hemp plants. However, the finest CBD products are produced from industrial hemp, a strain of the cannabis Sativa plant. This plant carries fewer THC levels making the extraction process safer. Inquire from the supplier about the hemp type used to produce the cream. Ask about where it was grown and whether it contains a carbon footprint. Since it is legal for hemp to be grown in the US, choose a locally cultivated product. You are assured it followed the necessary guidelines and regulations. CBD producers in the US consider factors like; quality control, presence of heavy metals, and pesticides to produce top levels of products that satisfy the users' demand.

Conclusion

CBD cream is a fantastic product that offers multiple benefits to the skin. Its benefits include combatting pain, dealing with dry skin, and treating various skin conditions like acne. However, like other products, it does come with a few rare adverse effects. Even though its side effects are temporary, at times, they may be severe due to the skin reaction to other additives incorporated in the cream. Thankfully, the cream is recognized to be generally safe; its side effects are mostly mild and rare. To avoid these side effects, you should only purchase a high-quality product. Purchase from a reputable brand that offers a lab report and ensures it states the origin of the hemp plant used. Additionally, read the product's ingredients list carefully. Lastly, consult with a  dermatologist before applying the product to the skin.

References

Anand, U., Pacchetti, B., Anand, P., & Sodergren, M. H. (2021). Cannabis-Based Medicines And Pain: A Review Of Potential Synergistic And Entourage Effects. Pain Management, 11(4), 395-403.

De Almeida, D. L., & Devi, L. A. (2020). Diversity Of Molecular Targets And Signaling Pathways For CBD. Pharmacology Research & Perspectives, 8(6), E00682.

Marinotti, O., & Sarill, M. (2020). Differentiating Full-Spectrum Hemp Extracts From CBD Isolates Implications For Policy, Safety, And Science. Journal Of Dietary Supplements, 17(5), 517-526.

Peyravian, N., Deo, S., Daunert, S., & Jimenez, J. J. (2022). The Anti-Inflammatory Effects Of Cannabidiol (CBD) On Acne. Journal Of Inflammation Research, 15, 2795.