Sun, Skin and CBD

Finally summer is here spending time outdoors becomes more tempting. However, the increased exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can wreak havoc on our skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. While sunscreen is a must, there’s exciting research suggesting that cannabidiol (CBD) could be an effective ally in protecting your skin from sun damage.

The Hidden Dangers of UV Radiation

• UV radiation from the sun is a major environmental hazard for our skin. It consists of UVA and UVB rays, both of which penetrate the skin and cause damage at the cellular level. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper, contributing to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.

When our skin cells, called keratinocytes, are exposed to UV radiation, they experience oxidative stress and inflammation. This can lead to a variety of issues, including DNA damage and disruption of the skin’s barrier function.

Enter CBD: Nature’s Protective Shield

Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from the cannabis plant, has been gaining attention for its potential skin benefits. Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD could play a crucial role in protecting our skin from UV damage.

A recent study explored the effects of CBD on human epidermal keratinocytes (the primary cells in the outer layer of the skin) exposed to UVA and UVB radiation. Here’s what they found:

• Reduction in Inflammation: CBD significantly decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory proteins like TNFα and NFκB, which are typically elevated in UV-irradiated cells. By calming inflammation, CBD helps mitigate one of the key factors in skin damage and aging.
• Protection Against Oxidative Stress: UV radiation increases the production of harmful molecules called free radicals, which can damage skin cells. The study showed that CBD enhanced the skin's natural defense systems by boosting the expression of antioxidant enzymes. This means that CBD helps neutralize free radicals before they can cause harm.
• Regulation of Protein Production and Degradation: UV exposure can disrupt the balance of protein synthesis and degradation in skin cells, leading to the accumulation of damaged proteins. CBD was found to regulate this balance by reducing the overproduction of new proteins and enhancing the activity of the proteasome, a cellular complex responsible for breaking down damaged proteins.
• Preservation of Skin Barrier: One of the critical findings was that CBD prevented the binding of a harmful compound called 4-hydroxynonenal to skin proteins. This protection is particularly important for maintaining the integrity of the skin’s barrier, which is essential for retaining moisture and keeping irritants out.

Final Thoughts

While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits of CBD for skin protection, the current findings are promising. By reducing inflammation, combating oxidative stress, and preserving the skin barrier, CBD offers a natural and effective way to enhance your sun protection routine. After a day in the sun, use Dr. Semoe Premium CBD Oil to soothe and repair your skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD can help reduce redness and prevent long-term damage. So, next time you come home after a perfect day at the beach, consider applying CBD oil in your after sun routine, your skin will thank you!

References

• The research discussed in this article is based on the study: .Protective Effects of Cannabidiol on the Membrane Proteome of UVB-Irradiated Keratinocytes

Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine responsibly with a little help from CBD!