Does Shaving Leave You With Irritated Skin? Try CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is fast becoming the “it thing” of the skincare world right now, and for people who shave—whether it’s their beards, legs, or pits—this is good news.

Let’s face it—there’s nothing worse than an uncomfortable rash after a do-it-yourself shaving job. These rashes can be particularly burdensome when they pop up on the face after shaving one’s beard. Fortunately, CBD could be here to save the day. Jam-packed with remedial qualities, this cannabinoid has the power to potentially replace traditional types of aftershave care.

Here’s the 411 on CBD’s ultra-soothing effects for razor-chewed skin.

What Are the Risks of Shaving?

Beards can help to protect the skin from sunburn, but many men choose to shave theirs off. In fact, according to Statista, 27% of men in the U.S. choose to trim their beards on a daily basis. And even men who prefer some length of beard generally touch theirs up now and then. Women, many of whom shave their legs, also face the ordeal of shaving on a regular basis.

Unfortunately, shaving is far from a walk in the park. While modern products have made shaving safer, it’s not uncommon to end up bleeding from razor nicks. Plus, skin sensitivity may be heightened post-shave (even when an injury doesn’t occur). Some of the most common side effects of shaving are:

• Cuts
• Dermatitis
• Razor burn
• Itching
• Ingrown hairs (pseudofolliculitis)
• Ingrown hair infections (folliculitis barbae)
• Inflamed hair follicles/blisters (folliculitis)

CBD’s Use in the Skincare World

A growing number of product manufacturers are mixing CBD-rich Cannabis sativa seed oil with typical everyday skincare goods to ensure maximum effects. Meticulously manufactured to guarantee safe topical application, CBD—which was first isolated in 1940 and its structure identified in 1963—is a powerful antioxidant with strong anti-inflammatory effects.

Various studies have demonstrated the cannabinoid’s power to minimize lipid production from the oil-producing sebaceous glands. When these glands kick into overdrive, the risk of acne formation increases. CBD could even prevent the onset of various hormonal conditions that may contribute to acne.

Aside from reducing the redness, swelling, inflammation, and pain associated with acne and breakouts, CBD may also help to ease the effects of rosacea flare-ups, relieve eczema, and soothe the effects of dermatitis and psoriasis, as well as neutralize free radical damage and improve skin hydration.

Does Science Support the Use of CBD for Shaving Care?

Absolutely. CBD kicks into action on CB1, CB2, and CBN receptors, which are abundant on skin cells. The natural antiproliferative can help minimize inflammation, neutralize free radical damage, and regulate oil production.

Aside from its ability to control sebum production, a swelling body of medical literature suggests that CBD can reduce the symptoms of skin conditions like acne, allergic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, eczema, itching, and psoriasis.

How to Use CBD After Shaving

The way in which you use CBD skin care products depends entirely on the type of product being used and the purpose of its use. For example, topical CBD products like creams, lotions, and serums are applied directly to the problem area for localized relief.

You might also opt for a CBD-infused face wash that can penetrate deeply into the skin’s layers before and after shaving. A soothing face mask can also be applied after shaving to hydrate the skin, enhance elasticity, clean clogged pores, and absorb excess oil.

Where to Buy CBD Products for Shaving

Just as you wouldn’t eat something that hasn’t been sourced and prepared with the utmost care, the same rule should apply when you buy CBD products for shaving.

Begin by seeking out a reputable place that sells CBD. Avoid buying goods at unlicensed stores or at gas stations; a better option would be to limit your purchases to licensed retailers who aren’t afraid to discuss product ingredients.

Make sure you thoroughly read the packaging information and ingredients of CBD skincare products before using them. It’s also important to buy from a reputable brand that conducts third-party testing to ensure product safety and satisfaction. A certificate of analysis (COA) will outline exactly what is contained in a seller’s CBD products and confirm whether or not it passed the standard testing requirements at a third-party laboratory.

Lastly, you should ask about the CBD potency, type (is it isolate or full- or broad-spectrum?), and source. Only products made using organic, U.S.-cultivated hemp are recommended since these products are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill.