CBD for Atopic Dermatitis – What Can the Oil Do?

People with neurodermatitis do not have it easy: the typical itching of the disease is their constant companion. At the same time, the exact backgrounds of the disease are still not fully understood.

People with neurodermatitis suffer from itchy skin rashes that recur in flare-ups. In most cases, the disease begins in childhood and improves over the years. However, there are also adults who suffer from neurodermatitis. Sufferers are affected on the one hand by the unsightly appearance of their rashes, which occur particularly frequently in the crooks of the elbows, behind the knees, on the neck, and on the hands and feet. On the other hand, the constant severe itching is naturally a major problem for them.

The cause of neurodermatitis is often that the body cannot produce filaggrin, or only very little of it. This protein is an important component of the upper skin layers. Without filaggrin, the stratum corneum cannot properly protect the skin. As a result, it loses a lot of moisture and dries out. This, in turn, weakens the natural skin barrier and promotes inflammation. The dry skin reacts sensitively to irritating environmental substances and allergens, which triggers irritation. These, in turn, weaken the skin barrier, creating a cycle of disturbed protective barrier and inflammation.

Since neurodermatitis occurs in flare-ups, meaning the symptoms vary, the treatment is not always the same. Sufferers protect their skin from drying out with emollient and moisturizing care products. This somewhat compensates for the disturbed natural skin barrier and makes the skin more resistant. Avoiding irritating substances in cosmetics, care products, or detergents is also important.

In an acute flare-up, severe inflammation can be treated with cortisone ointment. This endogenous substance has strong anti-inflammatory effects. However, if cortisone is used too frequently, it makes the skin thinner and more susceptible to inflammation. Therefore, the use of cortisone for neurodermatitis must always be carefully weighed.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural cannabinoid found in female hemp plants. It binds to the same receptors in skin cells as natural human messengers. This allows it to stimulate or suppress various processes in the skin as an active ingredient. Through the corresponding receptors and signaling pathways, CBD can stimulate anti-inflammatory processes. At the same time, the corresponding signaling agents also ensure a higher production of lipids, which form and strengthen the natural skin barrier.

Last but not least, CBD probably also has pain-relieving effects via the cannabinoid receptors in the skin and reduces itching – two factors that are particularly beneficial for people with neurodermatitis. So far, no side effects of CBD for neurodermatitis are known.

Some scientists even assume that the disturbed skin barrier that causes problems in neurodermatitis is based on a disturbed regulatory system in the skin, and that CBD thus combats this disease at its root. In any case, sufferers can benefit from the anti-inflammatory and itch-relieving effects of CBD oil and creams, especially during an acute flare-up.

Since CBD easily dissolves in fatty lotions, creams, and ointments, it can be applied well as a CBD cream. Alternatively, you can also apply CBD oil for itching. You don't have to worry about side effects that may occur when taking CBD orally. As long as you only apply the cannabinoid to the skin, it does not enter the bloodstream.

Applying CBD oil for neurodermatitis is very simple: it is best to put a few drops on the affected area of itching and inflammation, spread it there with your fingertips and gently massage it in. In studies, CBD began to noticeably relieve itching after just a few minutes. The effect lasted about twelve to 24 hours. By incorporating care with CBD oil or a CBD face cream into your daily routine in the morning and evening, you can probably noticeably improve your symptoms in everyday life.