While CBD is typically used for things such as chronic pain or anxiety, it can also be used for a variety of other purposes. Many users have reported positive results from using CBD for hair growth and overall scalp health.
As CBD grows in popularity, products specifically targeting the scalp, including CBD shampoos and conditioners, are popping up all over the place. But can CBD really help? And if so, how?
Can CBD Help Promote Hair Growth?
When applied to the skin, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors within the skin. CBD’s anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and lipid-inhibiting properties are just a few ways it can contribute to a healthy scalp. A healthy scalp, after all, is the main foundation for having a head of long, flowing hair.
In addition to CBD, CBD tinctures contain carrier oils that can also contribute to a healthy scalp. Hemp seed oil, a common carrier oil, contains beneficial omega fatty acids and amino acids. Amino acids are considered the building blocks of protein. In the case of hair, it’s the protein keratin.
And we can’t forget about terpenes. These compounds found in full spectrum CBD oil products also have their own individual benefits that can contribute to a health scalp. Myrcene and beta-caryophyllene are two major terpenes found in cannabis, and their anti-inflammatory properties could potentially help with scalp conditions. Linalool, another great terpene, has anti-bacterial properties.
How Do I Use CBD for Hair Growth?
While CBD shampoos and conditioners are showing up in stores claiming to help with scalp conditions, they pose a few problems. CBD products need to linger on the skin to provide benefits. As explained in our article about CBD bath products, shampoos and conditioners typically do not stay on the skin long enough to make a huge difference. You could very well be literally washing money (and CBD) down the drain.
An easy and more affordable approach is by doing a scalp treatment. This can usually be done with your standard sublingual CBD oil drops as long as it doesn’t contain any extra additives like sweeteners. By applying the CBD oil directly to the scalp as an overnight treatment, you are giving the CBD time to fully penetrate into the skin and do its job.
You can even create your own scalp-friendly CBD oil by purchasing your desired carrier oil, some CBD isolate, and some beneficial terpenes. This is a cost-effective way to create a “potent” CBD scalp treatment that best meets your needs.