CBD Oil for Dry Scalp: What Are the Benefits?

Recently, the popularity of CBD has increased exponentially as research reveals its full potential. Many recent studies extoll the benefits of CBD (cannabidiol) for the treatment of various medical conditions. While research continues, preliminary results demonstrate that CBD oil may also help certain skin conditions. Read on to learn if it can help with dry scalp, its side effects, and how to use it.

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of several hundred compounds in the medical marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa. Recently, CBD has shown promise in treating various medical conditions, such as seizures and arthritis. CBD does not contain THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the compound that makes you "high." Anyone can purchase CBD over the counter without a prescription, as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.

Causes of dry scalp

A dry scalp results from a lack of moisture in the skin. Dryness can occur for many reasons, such as age. As we age, our skin does not produce as much oil to moisturize the skin. Also, the barrier function in our skin becomes dysfunctional, allowing loss of moisture. Other causes of dry skin include irritation or allergic reaction from products, overwashing, dry environment, or underlying medical conditions (psoriasis or eczema).

What are the benefits of CBD oil for the scalp?

In addition to CBD's ability to hydrate the scalp and hair and soothe inflammation in the scalp skin, CBD oil has other benefits for the scalp. It provides antioxidants to protect hair and skin from free radical damage by the sun. CBD oil also provides nutrients for the scalp to nourish it and promote hair growth. It can also increase scalp circulation, which will also provide more nutrients and oxygen for the scalp. Finally, CBD oil has antimicrobial properties to help combat infections that can lead to hair loss.

Does CBD oil help dry scalp?

There are few studies demonstrating the effects of CBD oil on dry scalp. More research with larger randomized controlled trials is needed. Preliminary evidence reveals that CBD can hydrate the skin due to its abundance of fatty acids. It can also soothe the skin because of its anti-inflammatory properties. These small studies show the promising beneficial effects of CBD on dry skin.

Does CBD oil help scalp itchiness?

Some studies show that CBD oil contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds that calm and soothe inflamed and irritated scalp skin. It may even help with the inflammation from arthritis. More research with randomized controlled trials is needed, but these smaller, preliminary studies show promise.

How to use CBD oil on the scalp

Many apply CBD oil daily on their scalps and massage it in. The act of massaging increases blood flow to the area to bring in more oxygen and nutrients to nourish the scalp. If it's your first experience with CBD oil, start with the lowest dose. Some also choose to rinse it off after 30 minutes when beginning. If you are concerned about irritation, try a test spot first.

Side effects of CBD oil

There are very few side effects of CBD oil, and for most, it is considered safe. Some side effects include redness, itching rash, allergic reaction, and irritation. It is rare to have systemic side effects from CBD oil because very little, if any, becomes absorbed into your bloodstream. Rare systemic side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, or drowsiness. It is best to avoid CBD if you are pregnant or nursing. Check with your doctor before starting a CBD regimen.

Other CBD treatments for dry scalp

CBD oil is not the only formulation of CBD available. Other formulations of CBD have shown beneficial effects in other medical conditions. Sometimes it is trial and error until you find the right formulation for you.

Vaping or ingesting CBD for dry scalp

No studies are available on vaping or ingesting CBD to treat dry scalp. More research is needed. Theoretically, CBD oil used topically should deliver better results for the scalp because it exerts all its effects locally where you need it, unlike systemic treatments. Ingesting or vaping CBD may help relieve anxiety and stress, which can have beneficial effects on the skin.

CBD cream for dry scalp

CBD cream has shown promise in treating skin conditions, like eczema or dry skin. Therefore, you can use CBD cream for your scalp. However, it may be difficult to work into your scalp because your hair gets in the way, especially if you have thick hair. CBD oil is probably easier to massage into the skin between the hairs. If you do not want the greasiness of oil on your scalp, you could try CBD lotion or serums. Lotions and serums are not very greasy and spread easier between the hairs than a cream. There are also CBD shampoos, conditioners, masks, detanglers, and serums.

Other tips for dry scalp

In addition to CBD oil, there are other interventions you can use to improve dry scalp. If your dry scalp does not improve or gets worse, see your dermatologist immediately. You may have an underlying medical condition.

Other interventions for dry scalp include:

• Proper hair care practices. Wash your hair less often, especially if you have very curly or coily hair. Use gentle, hydrating hair products, and avoid products with alcohol, sulfates, parabens, fragrance, dyes, and formaldehyde. Apply a hydrating mask. Do not use hot water on your scalp. Limit heat styling and chemical treatments.
  
• Humidify. Utilize a humidifier if you live in a dry climate with low humidity.
• Visit a doctor. Treat any underlying medical conditions affecting your scalp.
• Lifestyle. Practice good lifestyle choices, such as reducing stress, eating a proper diet, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol.

CBD has recently shown promise in treating various medical and skin conditions. While more research is needed into the full extent of its effects, side effects, and proper dosing, preliminary results reveal its beneficial effects on the skin. It can hydrate and soothe dry, irritated, itchy skin. If you are considering trying it, talk to your dermatologist first to see if it can benefit you.