The world of cannabis cosmetics is constantly evolving and is currently the focus of scientific research.
Just as in the medical field, in fact, the plant could be an important ally of healthy skin and hair. Here we show how it works, the studies and a market overview.
Cannabis cosmetics: the benefits
Cannabis Sativa L. is a plant rich in bioactive compounds (from cannabinoids to terpenes and flavonoids) with an immense potential for assisting the body’s wellbeing. Most of these compounds can actually be used in dermatology or as a cosmetic ingredient thanks to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties and for these reasons, especially in the last few years, we see a progressive growth in the number of products based on cannabinoids for skin and hair health.
In particular, as proved by a study published in Cosmetics, at the moment interest in the plant is directed mainly towards cannabinoids: cannabidiol (CBD), cannabichromene (CBC), tetrahydrocannabivarin (CBDV), which seem to have great potential for formulas for acne prone skin. To these, add cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabigerovarin (CBGV), which seem promising in regulating the production of sebum in dry skin.
Cannabinol (CBN) and cannabigerol (CBG), also appear to be particularly promising as ingredients for suncreams. Last but not least, the cannabinoid’s immune-regulating effects appear to be a great solution for sensitive skin.
There are also flavonoids, terpenes, carotenoids and filosterols which not only have anti-inflammatory effects, but also have anti-ageing ingredients able to contrast free radicals, ideal for cosmetics intended for mature skin.
To confirm the effectiveness of Cannabis and its components for dermatological and cosmetic use there’s also a study published in March 2022 “Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Dermatologic Conditions”, which has proved in particular the cannabinoid’s anti-inflammatory properties. The entire research was published in the scientific journal JID Innovations.
The benefits of Cannabis on hair
Cannabis not only has beneficial effects on skin, but also on hair. The hair care sector is particularly interested in CBD, the main non-psychoactive compound of Cannabis, and fatty acids (in particular omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9) that contribute not only to a healthy scalp, but also provide hair follicles with numerous nutrients which, in turn, strengthen and gloss the hair from root to tip.
Based on another study, published in the Journal of Pharmacopuncture in 2021 and entitled “Regulatory Effect of Cannabidiol (CBD) on Decreased 𝜷-Catenin Expression in Alopecia Models by Testosterone and PMA Treatment in Dermal Papilla Cells”, cannabinoids would be particularly important even for hair growth, contrasting hair loss and baldness. According to researchers, CBD could have a modulating function on alopecia, especially if caused by hormonal dysfunction and its use in treatment seems promising.
The market of cannabis cosmetics: overview and products
Based on studies and research, more and more skin and hair care companies in the world choose to use Cannabis and its components, firstly CBD, for the production of cosmetics.
From face creams, body lotions to face and hair masks, the market gets richer and greater and seems unstoppable in its growth.
According to data shared by Data Bridge Market Research, the industry, considering CBD use alone, exceeded $952 million in 2021 and could reach 7.6 billion dollars by 2029, thus recording a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29,6% in seven years.
