We’re finally out of those cold winter months, summer is in sight and that harsh dry skin we’ve all been suffering from should be long gone. Then an unforeseen pandemic got its grip on the world and we’ve found ourselves washing our hands more frequently than ever. When hand washing isn’t an option, more and more of us are relying on alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Suddenly, those dry winter hands didn’t seem that bad at all, because now we’re suffering from extremely dry, chapped hands and brittle nails.

What causes dry skin?

The more we wash our hands, the more we strip away moisture. Whatever natural protective oils are left on the skin’s surface are washed down the drain when we combine water and soap. Not only does this leave the hands exposed, it can also cause further irritation. This can lead to inflamed and raw looking skin.

How might CBD help my dry skin?

One of the main benefits of CBD to the human body is its anti-inflammatory properties, which have been identified in several studies to aid in fighting skin inflammation. It’s this benefit which can help prevent dry and inflamed skin, as well as aid in the repair process. 

CBD is a natural fit in our skincare routines because it’s full of fatty acids and antioxidants, like omega 3 and 6, which help promote moisturised skin and maintain elasticity.Research shows CBD extracts can contain more effective antioxidants than Vitamin E and C. These antioxidant properties in CBD help to protect the skin from free radicals and pollution which can damage healthy skin cells and cause premature aging.

The Endocannabinoid System

CBD works with the endocannabinoid system in the body. This is a microscopic chain of receptors all living beings possess. The body produces these cannabinoid receptors (there are two types, CB1 and CB2) which interact with CBD when it is introduced to our systems. 

When taken orally, the endocannabinoid system can treat inflammation from the inside. But on the surface of the skin, CBD has also proven effective in treating localised inflammation through the endocannabinoid system. Meanwhile the antioxidants and fatty acids present help soothe irritation and restore moisture.The reason this is allowed to happen in the skin is all down to the widespread presence of the two types of cannabinoid receptors in the body which tend to show up near our organs. And with the skin being our largest organ, it responds well to CBD with these receptors carrying out their work. 

The next key element is hydration. Excessive hand washing and regular use of alcohol-rich hand sanitisers often leads to dehydrated skin. CBD-infused creams can help improve hydration levels in our skin. 

In some extreme cases of dry skin, often skin diseases, dermatologists may prescribe topical steroid creams, which act as anti-inflammatory medicines. For people that like to avoid using steroid ointments, some doctors suggest CBD could be used as a non-steroidal alternative. While CBD works as an anti-inflammatory, the emollient nature of hemp oil, the base of every CUBID CBD product, works as a barrier to help protect the skin to allow it a chance to heal.

How to use CBD for dry hands

The easiest way to treat dry skin with CBD is with a hand cream.  

Choosing good quality CBD skincare is a must. The key is investing in a seriously hydrating moisturiser with high quality CBD. Re:new Hand & Nail Cream by CUBID CBD is made with 250mg of broad spectrum hemp oil containing 66% CBD and other cannabinoids, perfect for intensively re-hydrating dry hands. 

The next step is to moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. In the same way we must regularly wash our hands, it’s vital to be regularly applying your moisturiser. We recommend applying a coin-sized amount a minimum of twice a day, or whenever you feel your hands and nails need some extra care.

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