What is CBD?
CBD has taken the skincare sphere by storm. From serums and lip balms to shampoos and supplements – hemp-infused products now line the shelves of every major beauty retailer. Showing no signs of failing, the global CBD skincare market is set to reach $1.7 billon by 2025*, up from $710 million in 2018*.
To find out exactly what CBD is, let’s start with a science recap. Cannabis plants produce 80-100 different cannabinoids (naturally occurring compounds). The two most notable cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). While THC is the psychoactive element (aka, it will make you feel high), CBD is the non-psychoactive element that’s often used in skincare.
CBD skincare benefits
• Reduces inflammation: CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that make it effective in treating irritated skin conditions. A 2019 study* found that after three months of twice-daily application of a CBD-infused ointment, patients with psoriasis, dermatitis and scars saw significant skin improvement.
• Regulates sebum production: Research shows that CBD is highly sebostatic, meaning it can regulate the production of sebum, balancing oily skin to reduce further breakouts.
• Offers antioxidant protection: CBD also offers antioxidant benefits, protecting skin from damage caused by free radicals (like breaking down our skin’s collagen).
What is Manuka Honey?
Hailed for its wound-healing properties, Manuka honey has been used in skincare for centuries. Produced by honeybees that feed on the Manuka plant (a small flowering tree native to New Zealand), it is unique to other types of honey because of its high antibacterial properties.
While most honey varieties get their antibacterial nature from hydrogen peroxide, Manuka honey contains methylgloxal (MGO) too which comes from dihydroxyacetone (DHA) found in the nectar of Manuka flowers. This – MGO – is why Manuka honey is believed to be so good at fighting bacteria.
Manuka Honey skincare benefits
• Promotes wound healing: In addition to preventing microbial infections in wounds, Manuka honey has been found to speed up healing. One two-week study found that after applying a Manuka honey dressing on non-healing wounds, 88% decreased in size*.
• Hydrates skin: Manuka honey is a natural humectant which means it draws in and retains moisture, making it a useful addition to moisturisers and emollients.
• Eases inflammation: Ideal for irritated skin, Manuka honey boasts anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and inflammation. Certain research has also found it can help soothe eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and acne.
Skincare saviours containing Manuka honey and CBD
Manuka honey and CBD work extremely well on their own but they also make for the perfect ingredient pair that can be found in myriad body products, face serums and even sleep sprays. Here are my top product picks:
• Manuka Pharm Calming Face Serum, £15: Formulated with CBD isolate (meaning it’s free from THC) and Manuka honey, this soothing serum can be applied morning and evening to take down inflammation and treat blemish-prone skin.
• Manuka Pharm Intense Muscle And Joint Gel, £15: Target tired, aching muscles with this warming, lightweight gel that sinks into skin so CBD, Manuka honey and lavender can get to work.
• Manuka Pharm Relax Sleep Spray, £10: Mist this scented spray all over your pillow before you hit the hay and let the calming blend of lavender, patchouli, Manuka honey and CBD send you into a deep slumber.
