When looking for a new product to help address the effects of aging on your skin, you can quickly become overwhelmed by the number of different ingredients claiming to help. Without extensive research, it can be challenging to know how effective these ingredients and products are. The following are the most effective options to help maintain healthy skin.

Sunscreen

Many substances and vitamins have been shown to help reduce aging on the skin, the most effective (and important) solution is simple sunscreen. If you’re not using sunscreen regularly, then there’s no point in investing any more money in other products that claim to help your skin. Many of the effects people are looking to reduce, like wrinkles and spots, develop from exposure to the sun. Stopping this source of damage is the most powerful way to protect your skin.

Broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended as it stops both UVA and UVB rays from the sun, the first causing signs of aging and the second that burn the skin. An SPF of at least 30 is recommended, which will stop most of the damaging UV from hitting your skin, either by blocking it or absorbing it into the skin to stop the damage at a cellular level. Sunscreens come with 

Ceramides

The top layer of your skin is known as the skin barrier, which keeps moisture in and retains hydration while keeping irritants out. Ceramides are a type of lipid that helps maintain the strength of this barrier, so it can be a powerful way to maintain your skin’s health. The more hydrated your skin is, the more youthful it will look, an essential part of your anti-aging arsenal. If you’re prone to dry skin or eczema, a product with topical ceramides like Private Label Skin Care may be beneficial.

Collagen

Collagen is a protein found in the skin, hair, and nails and helps keep them strong and healthy. Skin without enough collagen will lose its ‘bounce’ and start to look less firm, which is why, as we age, our skin changes as the body produces less collagen naturally. Sun exposure can also expedite the effects and speed up how quickly the collagen in our skin breaks down. While it may seem straightforward that we should add collagen into our skincare routine, it, unfortunately, isn’t that simple. Collagen is a large molecule that makes it difficult to find a topical method that will significantly impact. Equally, taking collagen as a pill isn’t the most effective way of getting the protein to the correct part of the body, so while the jury is still out, there’s no harm in taking a collagen supplement or cream.

CBD – Cannabidiol 

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a molecule found in hemp or cannabis. CBD does not cause intoxication or euphoria (unlike its cousin, THC). CBD has quickly made its way to the beauty and skincare industry. In many areas, hemp-based CBD products can be purchased at a local pharmacy or ordered online. CBD beauty products can also be found at major retailers like Sephora. Thanks to easy access, more people are utilizing topical CBD for healthy skin. 

Research states, “Recent data have shown that the endocannabinoid system is fully functional in the skin and is responsible for maintaining many aspects of skin homeostasis, such as proliferation, differentiation, and release of inflammatory mediators.” Preclinical evidence shows CBD may be a therapeutic option to address a variety of inflammatory skin conditions. 

CBD also has been found to have antioxidant properties. Anecdotal reports show consumers are choosing topical CBD for a variety of skin-care purposes, from addressing dark spots and other skin imperfections, to easing acne. More research needs to be done on CBD, but the preclinical research and the anecdotal reports are promising. 

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is in a group of acids called ‘alpha-hydroxy’ acids. Unlike collagen, it’s made from tiny molecules that can penetrate deep into the skin. Using glycolic acid has an exfoliating effect, improving your skin’s texture and tone by dissolving dead skin cell bonds like other alpha-hydroxy acids. What makes glycolic acid unique is that it boosts collagen in the skin, giving it an elastic look mentioned above. The only issue is that it can irritate sensitive skin, so start with a mild product.

Lactic Acid

Like glycolic acid, lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid, but is gentler on the skin and less likely to irritate. If you get a mild face peel or at-home exfoliator, there’s a good chance that it will contain lactic acid and leave your skin looking refreshed. Many exfoliating products have the issue of drying out your skin. Lactic acid is unique in that it can moisturize the skin and exfoliate it, making it a fantastic choice. If you use a product with lactic acid in it, beware that your face may be more sensitive to the sun, so ensure that you’re keeping on top of your sunscreen routine.

Hyaluronic Acid

Another prevalent ingredient in the anti-aging and skin hydration world, hyaluronic acid works by absorbing water and then traps it under the skin like a sponge. By doing this, your skin will be both hydrated and look plumper, and lines will appear to be filled in. Unfortunately, this is a temporary effect, but as the body creates hyaluronic acid naturally until around 20, there are no issues with regularly using a product. When using hyaluronic acid-based products, remember that moisture needs to be present for it to work, so apply it to the skin when it’s already moist with water or after using a moisturizer.

Jojoba Oil

Face oils have become popular over the last few years, but the idea can still be off-putting compared to the more traditional face cream. Of all the face oils available jojoba oil is one of the top choices on the market. Coming from the pod of a plant, it acts just like the oil found in our skin. For most people, it will also not clog pores and acts as a moisturizer, making it perfect for irritated or dry skin, and won’t lead to breakouts in spots. Jojoba oil also contains vitamin E, which has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as a bonus.

Retinol

Retinol is also known as vitamin A, and is a highly effective skin treatment ingredient. It works by increasing the rate your skin cells turn over, giving an exfoliating effect, and can combat fine lines and damage from the sun. If you have both wrinkles and adult acne or spots, this is a great option. There are some negatives, though – the main one is that too much can cause redness or irritation, especially for sensitive skin. Combat this by using only a minimal amount to start with – a pea-sized drop will be more than enough to cover your face with. Another tactic is to try to use it after moisturizing for added protection and then adding another layer of moisturizer on top.

Conclusion

There are a variety of topical ointments and creams on the market that promise to provide the most effective anti-aging ingredients you need in your skincare routine. The ideal skincare routine can vary from each person and it can take a little experimentation to find the ideal products for you. When purchasing new skincare items, always choose high-quality products free of contaminants, toxins, and impurities. As always, talk to your licensed healthcare provider before adding new supplements or medications to your healthcare routine. 

Learn how to make your own CBD topicals easily at home. Learn five ways CBD oil impacts your skin.Trending Now

What is a salve?

A salve is a semi-solid preparation usually containing herbal medicine that is used for healing or soothing. Salves are topicals, which means they are meant to be applied directly to the skin.

Salves are frequently made from herbs such as arnica, lavender, comfrey, and many other traditional herbal medicines. Cannabis salves a rapidly growing in popularity.

Research and anecdotal reports show CBD and THC may have significant therapeutic effects when applied topically. Cannabis salves are being used for a variety of purposes.

For this cannabis slave tutorial, you only need three ingredients: Oil, Beeswax, and Cannabis/Hemp Flower. If you prefer, you can also add other essential oils or herbs.

Why use a cannabis salve?

Many patients successfully use CBD oils or cannabis oils for topical application. However, because of the liquid nature of oil, a lot of the product can be wasted by dripping off or spreading beyond the area you’re trying to target.

Adding beeswax to convert the oil to a salve or ointment, gives the product a semi-solid texture. The beeswax increases the viscosity of the cannabis oil or CBD oil. The semi-solid nature of a cannabis salve means the product is much easier to apply topically. Topical cannabis salves are much more likely to stay where you place them compared to oil.

Making your own cannabis topicals is economical

Using a kit is very economical. The large kit sells for $75 and makes almost 15 oz. Nurse Grown also sells a premade hemp balm at $35 for 2 oz. To purchase 15 oz of pre-made CBD balm would cost more than $245.

How to make a cannabis salve

For this tutorial, I’m using a DIY Hemp Salve kit sold by Nurse Grown Organics, one of my favorite CBD companies (I love them so much, I’m an affiliate.)

The kit has almost everything you need to make up to 15 oz of your own DIY CBD topical at home. It includes 1 ounce of high-quality CBD hemp flower, 2 oz of beeswax, a muslin straining bag, and a large mason jar.

In addition to the kit, you’ll need, 2 cups of organic food-grade cooking oil. Choose an oil with a medium-to-high smoke point (coconut, olive, or grapeseed are great options).

I’m using the large DIY Hemp Salve Kit, but Nurse Grown also currently sells a smaller version.

If you don’t have a kit, don’t worry! You can absolutely gather the materials separately and still follow this same process. Here are all the materials I’m using to make my DIY cannabis salve.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Cannabis Salve

Materials Needed

1 oz cannabis flower (I’m using high-CBD hemp to make CBD oil)

2 oz beeswax

2 cups of organic food-grade oil (I’m using olive, you an use any with a medium to high smoke point)

Large mason jar

Smaller jars for salve storage (optional)

Essential oils (optional)

Cheesecloth or muslin bag for straining (you can use any straining method you choose)

Medium-sized pot, mixing utensils as needed

BUY the DIY Hemp Salve Kit from Nurse Grown Organics.

WARNING: In this process, we’re using the jar method. Some consumers have had jars break when cooking with them. Use caution. During the process, be sure that the jar avoids any contact with cold surfaces or cold liquids as that can increase the risk of the jar breaking. Of course, always use caution when handling hot oil or hot preparations.

Cannabis Salve Instructions

Step 1 – Decarboxylate Your Flower

Dried cannabis flower actually contains very little CBD and THC. Instead, raw cannabis flower is usually high in the acidic-form of those molecules, CBDA and THCA. In order to convert CBDA into CBD, you must decarboxylate your cannabis. We do this by heating it to the ideal temperature for the ideal amount of time.

I prefer to decarboxylate in my Ardent Nova which decarbs cannabis perfectly every time. If you do not have an Ardent, you can also decarb in a jar or in a covered dish inside your oven.

This is how I decarb perfectly every time. 

You’ll want to break apart the larger buds of your cannabis flower, but you do not need to grind it.

To decarboxylate for CBD, place the broken up cannabis flower in the jar. Then bake the sealed jar at 250 degrees for 90 minutes. (Note, THC requires less time to decarb, about 35-45 minutes)

Step 2 – Infuse Your Oil – THE JAR METHOD

In this next step, you will make your CBD oil (or cannabis oil). To do this, you need to mix the oil and plant material together, and heat it. The heat will cause the cannabinoids (like CBD and THC) to move out of the plant material and into the oil around it.

You can use any infusion method you’d like. Here we’re using the “Jar Method”.

Simply pour the oil into the jar that contains the already decarboxylated flower. Be sure the oil covers the plant material.

Place the sealed jar in a medium pot of boiling water. Simmer on low for 45-60 minutes. Shake the jar or stir the contents periodically during the infusion.

You just want to be sure there’s no way for the jar to tip and spill the contents into the water.

Step 3 – Strain Your Oil

You can use any straining method you like. The kit comes with a very convenient muslin bag. Cheesecloth is another great method.

As long as you used food-grade oil, this oil is edible. You can stop here and just use this as ordinary CBD oil. Take it with an oral syringe or add it to recipes.

If you’re making the topical, you’ll move on to the next step.

After you strain your oil, be sure to WASH YOUR JAR.

Step 4 – Incorporate the Beeswax

Next, you’ll add the infused oil back into your washed, clean jar. You’ll also add the beeswax.

Once again, place the sealed jar in a medium pot of boiling water. Simmer on low. Shake the jar or stir the contents periodically until all the beeswax is melted and incorporated into the oil

How long this takes, depends on how large your chunks of beeswax are. I chop mine and they take about 25-30 minutes to completely melt. You can also grate/shred your beeswax or use beeswax pellets to reduce the time needed to melt.

Step 5 – Add Essential Oils (OPTIONAL)

If you’re planning to add essential oils to your DIY hemp topical, this is the time to add them. Simply add the essential oils to the jar and give it a shake or a stir.

Step 6 – Store Your DIY Hemp Flower Salve

You can store your freshly made DIY CBD topical directly in the mason jar you prepared it. For easier access, I like to pour it into shorter wide-mouth containers.

Set the filled containers to the side and screw on the top after it’s cooled.

Step 7. Enjoy your fresh, homemade cannabis salve.

Here’s how I decarb perfectly every time:

https://vimeo.com/500987268Trending Now

Recipe for Citrus Lime CBD Pies

A lot goes into making CBD edibles. First you have to decarb the hemp flower, then you have to infuse oil or butter. After all that work, you’re finally ready to start on the actual edible itself.

Using an already prepared CBD oil removes the first two steps. This makes making CBD edibles at home a lot easier. This particular recipe for Citrus Lime CBD Pie is made with Crescent Canna’s High-Potency CBD Drops, which come in a mandarin lime flavor that pairs perfectly.

To make dosing easier, we designed this recipe to be single serving size with mini-pie crust shells. In the end, you’ll want to divide the filling as evenly as possible for the most consistent doses. Alternately, you could make a regular sized pie with the filling and estimate the dose based on the number of slices.

Remember, CBD can interact with some medications, so always talk to your doctor before adding a new substance into your wellness plan.

CBD Edibles Dosing

We’re using Crescent Canna’s maximum strength CBD oil in this recipe. The strength of the oil in this recipe is very high, with 9000 mgs of CBD per 1 fl oz bottle. Each dropper has 300 mgs of CBD.

We’re using a very concentrated dose because we want to use the lowest amount of oil possible, so that we can preserve the texture of our filling.

Crescent Canna offers CBD drops in varying strengths. If you’re using a different product,  you’ll need to determine your dose.

As you’re preparing your CBD edibles, pay attention to the total amount of milligrams of CBD added. You can then divide this number by the number of servings. For this recipe, we’re adding a total of 600 mgs of CBD. We’re making 6 mini-pies. So, 600 mgs/6 pies=100 mgs/pie (for most people, this is a large dose–I only eat half a pie at a time)

This is a no-bake edibles recipe. It’s super easy and fast to prepare.

Ingredients for Citrus Lime CBD Pie

• 1 Block of cream cheese – 8 oz (ROOM TEMPERATURE!!) 
• 1 Can of sweetened condensed milk – 14 oz
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 Tablespoons of powdered sugar
• 6 mini-pie crusts – graham cracker shells
• 2 Droppers of Crescent Canna’s 9000 mg Max Strength CBD Drops – MANDARIN LIME Flavor
• Lime zest and slices for garnish

Citrus Lime CBD Pie Recipe Directions

First, it’s VERY important that the cream cheese has warmed to room temperature. If the cream cheese is too cold it will not mix properly and you will have lumps in the filling.

Step 1: Add cream cheese, condensed milk, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly until the filling no longer has lumps. If you do not mix the filling well enough, you will have tiny lumps of cream cheese in your pies and an inconsistent final texture.

Step 2: Add powdered sugar. Mix well to combine.

Step 3. Add two full droppers of Crescent Canna’s Mandarin Lime CBD Drops – 9000 mg Max Strength. Mix WELL to combine. You want to ensure the CBD is mixed in consistently. 

Step 4. Divide filling evenly into 6 mini-pie crust graham cracker shells.

Step 5. Garnish Citrus Lime CBD Pies with lime zest and lime slices.

Step 6. Place in the refrigerator to chill.

Step 7. Enjoy responsibly and remember to always label your infused treats!

Still hungry? Try another amazing edibles recipe.Trending Now

Is CBD Oil Good For Your Skin?

CBD is being used to address a variety of issues, from pain, to insomnia, to anxiety. But if you further explore the medical literature about cannabidiol you’ll find CBD affects more than just these internal issues. Evidence suggests that CBD can be useful for managing skin issues like psoriasis, acne, and more. 

CBD oil is often used topically and is absorbed by the skin quite easily. Below we review five of the potential ways CBD impacts skin health and wellness. 

Fights Acne

A lot of excitement surrounding CBD topicals is regarding CBD’s effects on acne. Sebum, an oily secretion that comes from skin, has naturally protective properties. However, when it builds up and mixes with debris, it can clog pores and trigger acne. 

However, research suggests CBD cuts off that process at the source. According to tissue research topical CBD application suppresses activity in the sebaceous glands and prevents the glands from producing excess sebum. 

The same research also suggests topical CBD application may reduce inflammation in the sebaceous glands. Both of these actions may impact the skin to decrease acne. Anecdotal evidence supports these suggestions. Many report that CBD helps relieve exacerbations of acne.

Many consumers use ordinary hemp oil directly on their skin, but consumers can also DIY their own CBD Beauty Recipes using CBD oil.  

Reduces Signs Of Aging 

As the human body ages, the skin becomes less elastic and begins to thin. Some of this is attributed toward the dysregulation of keratinocyte activity. Keratin is a fibrous structural protein that helps provide structure and protection to skin. 

According to a literature review published in 2019, endocannabinoid signaling plays a significant role in the regulation of keratinocyte activity. CBD may act as an antioxidant protecting and enhancing skin. 

Another study examined the effects of CBD-based ointments when used to treat inflammatory skin disease and various scars. The test subjects showed significant improvement in skin elasticity and higher levels of skin hydration. 

Ease Symptoms of Skin Disorders

An anecdotal study examining patients with psoriasis and eczema determined, “The topical administration of CBD ointment, without any THC, is a safe and effective non-invasive alternative for improved quality of life in patients with some skin disorders, especially on inflammatory background.”

Patients concur and anecdotally report a reduction of symptoms including itching, redness, and scar formation when they use a CBD topical. 

Soothes Dry Skin

Topical CBD users frequently report superior skin hydration. It’s unclear whether the relief of dry skin is related to the application of CBD alone, or if it’s also related to the emollient properties of the carrier oils. The relief of dry skin may also be related to the regulation of sebocytes, the anti-inflammatory properties, or the antioxidant effects of cannabis. 

CBD oil is available in a variety of carrier oils. It’s easy for consumers to choose the product that’s right for them. Whichever, carrier oil you choose, it’s important to select a high quality CBD product that’s free from pesticides and contaminants. 

Wound Healing

A lot more research is needed to really understand the therapeutic potential of CBD in wound care, but the preliminary research is remarkable. A research study examined the effects of topical CBD administration for difficult to treat leg ulcers that were resistant to other treatments. In the study, CBD had powerful effects, promoting healing when other medications didn’t help. We don’t recommend applying CBD to wounds as the products may not be sterile or appropriate, but we do look forward to seeing more CBD products developed for wound care specifically.

Conclusion

CBD users report a variety of positive effects on the skin with limited reports of adverse reactions. Patients around the world are using CBD for issues like reducing the signs of aging, for relieving dry skin, and even for easing the symptoms of inflammatory skin disorders. 

As always, patients should talk to their healthcare physician before adding a new product to their wellness routine.Trending Now

Small Batch Edibles Recipe: Orange Cream CBD Dream Bars

These delicately flavored orange CBD bars are a sweet way to ingest your CBD. This small-batch edible recipe makes two servings. It only requires three ingredients and you can whip it up in less than five minutes. Best of all you don’t even need to bake it. This is truly an easy edible to make.

We call these CBD Dream bars because research shows CBD may have an interesting impact on sleep. If CBD makes you feel tired, then Orange Cream CBD Dream Bars might make a luxurious bedtime snack.

They’re delicious, so remember not to overdo it. Save that second serving for tomorrow or share with a friend.

As always, talk to your licensed healthcare provider before adding a new substance to your wellness routine.

Orange Cream CBD Dream Bars – Ingredients

• 6 marshmallows (We like these all-natural marshmallows)
• ⅔ Cup of Brown Rice Crisps
• 2 servings of A88CBD Orange Cream CBD Oil Tincture 

Directions to Make Orange Cream CBD Dream Bars

1. Melt

Microwave the marshmallows for 30 seconds until melted. 

2. Mix

Add Orange Cream CBD Oil and mix thoroughly until the CBD oil is completely combined and the marshmallow mixture is smooth. 

3. Combine

Add Rice Crisps and stir until well combined. 

4. Refrigerate

Transfer mixture to a parchment lined pan and refrigerate until hardened. 

5. Enjoy

Once hardened, cut the bar into two equal pieces and enjoy. Remember, don’t overdo it! One bar is one dose.

Be Extra

Want to make these CBD bars EXTRA dreamy? Drizzle them with this THC-infused chocolate shell. 

If you’re in need of CBD edibles and don’t feel like cooking it yourself, try these Vegan CBD gummies. They’re all natural, plant-based, and come in a variety of dosages.

Making Edibles from Flower

Purchasing professional made CBD oil is easier than making it at home. It’s also the best way to assure you’re consuming accurate doses. However, if you only have access to CBD flower or cannabis flower, you can use that flower to make CBD oil at home. 

First, you will need to decarboxylate your flower. This is how I decarboxylate flower perfectly every time. 

Second, you will have to infuse the cannabis oil.

After you have your homemade cannabis oil, you’ll be able to incorporate it into any edible recipe you choose.

Always be sure to label your edibles and store them responsibly.

 Trending Now

How does CBD Impact Wellness?

Of course, more research is needed to fully understand the ways cannabis and CBD (cannabidiol) impacts wellness, but the results and anecdotal reports currently being revealed about these substances continues to amaze. 

Consumers repeatedly report that CBD affects health in a variety of ways, including sleep, anxiety, and exercise recovery. Below, we examine some of these ways CBD impacts wellness along with the research surrounding these topics. 

As always, patients should consult their licensed healthcare provider before adding a new supplement to their healthcare routine. 

1. Sleep

The way CBD impacts sleep varies from person-to-person. Results from research examining the effects of CBD, also varies. Nonetheless, consumers continue to report that CBD makes them feel sleepy with many consumers adding that CBD helps them to remain asleep all night. 

Research tells us that endocannabinoid signaling does impact sleeping and sleep patterns but how this manifests in each consumer still needs to be examined.  

A 2019 study examined 72 adults reporting poor sleep and using cannabidiol. The study found, “Sleep scores improved within the first month in 48 patients (66.7%) but fluctuated over time.”

Cannabis experts suspect these differences may be related to use of different cultivars, as different cultivars of cannabis can produce different physiological results. 

2. Energy

Just as many consumers report that CBD may enhance sleep, others report that CBD actually causes stimulation instead. Many users report that using CBD increases their energy levels and leaves them feeling energized after consuming it. 

Again this could be related to the cultivars of the cannabis being used to produce the CBD. It may also be related to the dose, as different dosages of CBD can produce different physiological effects.

Some researchers believe this may be related to the effects of CBD on circadian rhythm, others speculate that it may be a result of the impact of CBD on mitochondria within our cells.  

Today many consumers are using CBD as a way to increase their energy and thus increase their productivity. Still, we need a great deal of research to understand exactly how and why CBD causes specific consumer experiences. 

3. Anxiety

 Research has shown that CBD may improve anxiety in some consumers. The same study we referenced above also examined the anxiety levels of the study participants. Their results showed, “Anxiety scores decreased within the first month in 57 patients (79.2%) and remained decreased during the study duration.”

Another study, published in the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, examined the use of CBD for anxiety induced by the prospect of public speaking. The study looked at anxious individuals who were administered 600 mgs of CBD, or a placebo, prior to speaking publicly. 

Results showed that participants who had received the 600 mgs of CBD, were able to speak publicly with “significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort in their speech performance.”

Consumers should also keep in mind that some consumers report that taking too high of a dose of CBD can actually trigger anxiety instead of relieving it. 

4. Pain Relief

One of the biggest reasons consumers choose medical marijuana is to attain relief from chronic pain. Many CBD consumers report using a high quality CBD product can help relieve pain. Research supports this suggestion. 

While we do need more research, numerous studies have demonstrated that CBD does impact both inflammatory and neuropathic pain. This is thought to occur for a variety of reasons. 

Consumers are choosing to use CBD to address pain caused by a variety of ailments and issues. Research surrounding the cannabis-derived pharmaceutical, Sativex, shows a combination of plant-derived THC and CBD can have significant effects on muscle spasticity, as well as neuropathic pain. CBD is also being examined as a way to address painful conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. 

5. Exercise Recovery

One of the most popular new ways to utilize CBD products is for exercise recovery. This is because CBD has been shown to behave as a potent anti-inflammatory. 

When we exercise, we cause microscopic damage to our muscles and other biological tissues. The stress we place on our tissues during exercise, causes physiological stress and produces excess free radicals. CBD may act as an antioxidant, essentially helping to eliminate free radicals and thus enhancing exercise recovery. 

In mice, CBD has demonstrated the ability to lower urea nitrogen and blood creatinine levels. This is also believed to enhance exercise recovery. Some hope that this means CBD may one day help prevent exercise-induced nephrotoxicity, but more research is needed for that to be determined. Of course, more research is needed to examine the true extent of CBD on muscle recovery in humans. 

Conclusion

CBD may impact wellness in a variety of ways. Anxiety, exercise recovery, and sleep are just some of the areas consumers report CBD impacting. We need more research to examine all the ways CBD truly impacts health & wellness. 

Like all substances, cannabis and CBD have side effects, additionally, CBD may interact with some medications. Consumers should always speak with their licensed healthcare provider before adding a new substance to their health routine.

 Trending Now