Cannabis has recently become popular as an ingredient in skincare products claiming to be the "curing elixir" for a number of common skin conditions including dry skin and acne.
One of these brands is Carun, which recently released a new skincare range featuring cannabis sativa extract, also known as hemp seed oil, as its main ingredient.
"Active cannabinoids, such as those found in the Carun product range, have shown promise in improving a variety of skin conditions, including acne and eczema," said Dr. Alexis Granite, a consultant dermatologist at Cadogan Cosmetics, of cannabis extract-based products (via Daily Mail).
"Cannabinoids are powerful antioxidants that may work by reducing inflammation and especially when combined with hydrating oils may help in maintaining the skin's natural barrier function."
According to Carun, the cannabis sativa extract in their products, which include skin cream, mouthwash, hygiene gel and skin oil among others, has three main advantages:
1. Soothes and heals skin conditions.
Hemp seed oil, with its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties, can be used to soothe and heal a wide variety of skin conditions including acne, rashes, dry skin, itchy irritated skin, blisters, insect bites, post-trauma and scars.
2. Has anti-ageing effects.
The extract has one of the highest antioxidant levels of any vegetable oil. Antioxidants are known to have anti-ageing effects on the skin.
3. Contains minerals.
The rich, green oil is also full of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium.
And for those worrying about whether the products will produce the same high as marijuana, Carun also has an explanation for this.
Cannabis sativa contains a compound called cannabinoids, of which there are 60 different types.
The most well-known cannabinoid is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for marijuana's psychoactive effects, according to Chicago Now.
Carun's hemp products, however, contain only 0.3 percent THC and a greater amount another cannabinoid called CBD, which combats the psychoactive effects caused by THC, separating them from marijuana.
What do you think of the use of cannabis sativa extracts in skincare products? Is it a good or bad idea? Leave a comment below.
