First, why CBD?

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a naturally-occurring chemical compound found in cannabis plants (eg: marijuana and hemp). It's one of the two primary active ingredients of cannabis, the other one being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

Unlike THC, pure CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it doesn't make you feel high. 

Why is it good for your skin?

Known for its healing properties, "cannabidiol offers some serious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits which can be beneficial in treating skin concerns like inflammation, dryness and free radical damage," says Ildi Pekar, NYC-based aesthetician and founder of her own eponymous skincare line. 

CBD might also be effective in fighting acne as it helps reduce the production of sebum in the skin. Additionally, studies indicate that cannabidiol may be effective in treating eczema and psoriasis as well.

How to choose the right CBD skincare product? 

All cannabidiol-infused products are formulated using full-spectrum CBD oil, broad-spectrum CBD oil or CBD isolate. 

"Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all the compounds found in hemp, including trace amounts of THC.  Broad-spectrum CBD oil, on the other hand, contains a range of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids derived from hemp, but no THC," explains Ed Donnelly, CBD expert and founder of AmourCBD. 

Meanwhile, "CBD isolate is the purest version of CBD. It doesn’t contain any other compounds that you find in a hemp plant," tells Pekar. "This form of CBD oil is best for facial skin as it's pure, doesn't clog pores and is packed with skin-rejuvenating antioxidants," adds the aesthetician.

Also, is it legal?

According to the 2018 Farm Bill, cannabinoids derived from industrial hemp, containing less than 0.3% THC, are legal. 

"CBD is legal in all 50 states as a supplement, but infusing it into food and other products is an open question," says Donnelly.

 "The government’s position on CBD is confusing," notes Dr. Peter Grinspoon in a Harvard Health report. 

"While the federal government still considers CBD in the same class as marijuana, it doesn’t habitually enforce against it. Currently, many people obtain CBD online without a medical cannabis license," Dr. Grinspoon points out.