With temperatures rising, we’re all eager to bask in the sun’s warmth. Most people are aware that safeguarding skin from the sun’s intense radiation is crucial, but could CBD truly offer any assistance? 

Let’s delve into how CBD might potentially assist in sun exposure management, for a vibrant and enjoyable summer that you truly deserve.

Decoding CBD 

Ready to embark on a journey through the basics? Fasten your seatbelts as we zoom into the heart of our subject: Cannabidiol, or as it’s affectionately known, CBD. Among the 113 cannabinoids tucked away within the verdant foliage of the cannabis sativa plant, CBD shines brightly with the promise of potential health boons when coaxed out properly.

In the grand stage of cannabis compounds, CBD is a relatively new star. For a long time, it played second fiddle to its more notorious sibling, D9 THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol. The latter is the poster child of marijuana (a spicy twist on the cannabis sativa species), celebrated and vilified for its heady psychoactive prowess, casting a ‘high’ or euphoria over its users.

Common lore might lead you to believe that CBD also triggers a ‘high’, but the truth is far from it. In a plot twist, CBD stepped into the spotlight in 2018, becoming legal across the United States with the passing of the Farm Bill. This legislation opened the door to farming hemp plants, a special breed of the Cannabis sativa family teeming with CBD, yet maintaining a low D9 THC profile (less than 0.3%). This amount is so minuscule that it couldn’t possibly cause a high.

It’s worth noting, however, that marijuana, with its high D9 THC levels, has found legal acceptance in several states for both medicinal and recreational use (strictly for those aged 21 and above). But in this narrative, our protagonist is CBD, not D9 THC.

CBD Products and Sun Exposure 

Now that we have a clearer understanding of what CBD is and isn’t, let’s delve into the details. 

How do CBD products interact with sun exposure? 

Presently, there’s a scarcity of studies on this specific subject. However, there are products designed for sun care, both pre- and post-exposure. Sunscreens, lotions, salves, and creams can be used for aftercare. The association between CBD and sun protection stems from the reported benefits of using CBD on the skin. 

What are the advantages of a CBD topical product? 

CBD topicals come in many forms including lotions, salves, creams, and even hand sanitizers. A study that examined skin health before and after the use of CBD topicals used elasticity, hydration, and transepidermal water loss tests. Photographic evidence from the study supported the notion that a topical CBD ointment may positively affect skin health, with or without skin conditions. 

So, what about sun care products containing CBD? 

Post-sun exposure products, such as lotions, can be beneficial. Sun exposure can dehydrate the skin, leaving it dry and prone to aging. A CBD moisturizer can naturally replenish the skin’s moisture. As for sunscreens, opinions vary. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) cautions about the harmful chemicals in most sunscreens and their environmental impact. If your CBD sunscreen contains non-nano zinc as a chemical blocker, it might be less harmful to the environment. However, it’s important to note that the FDA hasn’t declared these chemical blockers as unsafe. For more on what the EWG discovered, click here.

Additional Solutions for Post-Sun Exposure 

The array of options for post-sun skin care is extensive, with your personal preferences and accessibility guiding you to the perfect choice for your skin’s health. Here’s what we’ve discovered:

• Aloe Vera: A popular treatment for sunburn, but it’s also effective for regular sun exposure. Most aloe vera is natural and offers a delightful cooling sensation when applied to warm skin. It’s also an excellent moisturizer, which is crucial for your skin after sun exposure.
• Coconut Oil: This might seem unusual for post-sun skin care, but it works wonders! Its effectiveness in treating sunburns may be uncertain, but it’s an excellent moisturizer that can help with peeling or itching skin.
• Shea Butter: This natural source of hydration is also anti-inflammatory, packed with antioxidants, and has antibacterial properties. Shea butter even contains small amounts of SPF (around 3 to 4, so don’t forget your sunscreen).

These are just three natural ways to replenish your skin’s moisture after sun exposure. There are also several natural remedies for sunburns, including:

• Cool Water: A sunburn is essentially skin inflammation, and cool water can help reduce this inflammation. So, hop back into the pool!
• Baking Soda and Oatmeal: A cold bath with these ingredients can help soothe reddened skin.
• Aloe Vera: As mentioned earlier, this is a common remedy. If you don’t have a plant at home, buy a 100% aloe gel.
• Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has soothing properties as well. Brew some, let it cool, and apply it to the sunburned area.
• Vinegar: Some people swear by this remedy, while others are skeptical. Adding a few cups to a cold bath is said to alleviate the sting of a burn. Try it on a small area first to see if it suits you, and if it does, enjoy a soothing bath!

Beyond Skin Care: The Many Uses of CBD 

Yes, indeed, CBD has many applications besides skin health. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several types of medication containing CBD. Three of these, Marinol (dronabinol), Syndros (dronabinol), and Cesamet (nabilone), help cancer patients manage nausea. Epidiolex, a pure CBD medication, helps treat and prevent seizures in individuals with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.

CBD is also known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. In a study conducted by Panacea Life Sciences, pet owners gave their dogs with osteoarthritis daily CBD supplements. These owners reported an improvement in their dogs’ mobility!

People who use CBD have also reported a general sense of calm. Whether you experience feelings of anxiety during the day or have trouble quieting your mind before bed, CBD might be able to help. This study examined rats exhibiting feelings of helplessness and anhedonia and found that the rats given CBD experienced less of these feelings.

Exploring Other CBD Products Apart from the aforementioned CBD topicals, what other CBD products are available? Here’s a brief rundown:

• Tinctures: This is one of the simplest and most effective methods of CBD intake due to its rapid absorption. A tincture is an oil-like substance usually placed under the tongue, where it enters the bloodstream. Some people may not appreciate the earthy taste, but this can be offset by drinking your favorite juice afterward.
• Softgels: Softgels are essentially CBD in pill form. These can be consumed daily and are processed through the digestive system. They reach the stomach, break down, and then enter the bloodstream through the stomach lining.
• Tablets: Tablets operate similarly to tinctures in how they enter the bloodstream – by dissolving in the mouth.
• Edibles: This type of CBD product is akin to softgels, but instead of swallowing a pill, you get to taste something delicious before it journeys to the stomach, and then into the bloodstream. While softgels and edibles take longer to produce effects, they are reported to last longer than tinctures.
• Vapes: CBD vape is inhaled and enters the bloodstream via the lungs.

So, What About CBD and the Sun? 

After going through all this information, we hope you feel more enlightened about CBD and sun exposure, as well as the broader world of CBD. CBD topicals could be an excellent way to replenish your skin’s moisture after enjoying those warm summer days. However, CBD sunscreen hasn’t been extensively tested, so be cautious of any claims made. Stay hydrated and make the most of your summer!

And now, for a sunny twist in our tale: Let’s venture into the realm of D9 THC. As we bask in the glow of summer days and the camaraderie of friends, D9 THC can be a truly delightful companion. Can you picture it? The sun smiling down, laughter echoing through the air, and D9 THC amplifying the joy and connection of these precious moments.

Fun in the Sun with D9 THC

Now, we would be remiss not to mention the delightful delicacy that is Cheech & Chong’s Cruise Chews. These little wonders pack a balanced blend of 3 mgs of D9 THC and 30 mgs of CBD in each chew. Imagine the sun setting, the day cooling, and you, relaxed, popping a Cruise Chew, feeling the delicate dance of D9 THC and CBD work their synergistic magic. Each chew promises a gentle, manageable experience, making it an excellent choice for newcomers to D9 THC and seasoned users alike.

D9 THC is renowned for its euphoric properties, helping to bring about a sense of light-heartedness and fun. It’s like adding a touch of sparkle to an already beautiful summer day. Remember, though, as with anything, moderation is key. D9 THC should be enjoyed responsibly, savoring each experience without going overboard.

In the grand tapestry of cannabinoids, D9 THC holds a distinct place, much like CBD. While they each have unique properties, they can coexist harmoniously, as proven by products like the Cruise Chews. As we continue to learn more about these fascinating compounds, we see the potential they hold, not just for wellness, but for enhancing our enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures, like a radiant summer day.

So, as you head out to soak up the sun, keep in mind the potential of CBD and D9 THC. Whether it’s CBD topicals helping to rehydrate your skin post-sun, or D9 THC adding a little extra sparkle to your summer fun, these cannabinoids are there to elevate your experience. Just remember, while we have a fair understanding of CBD, D9 THC, and sun, CBD sunscreens still need more research, so approach any claims with a critical eye. Stay hydrated, savor the sun, and here’s to a spectacular summer!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is CBD? 

A: CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the 113 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant. It’s known for its potential wellness benefits and unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it does not produce a “high”.

Q2: Can CBD help with sunburn or sun exposure? 

A: While research is still in its early stages, CBD, particularly in topical forms like lotions and creams, could potentially help to rehydrate the skin after sun exposure.

Q3: How can CBD be consumed? 

A: CBD can be consumed in various forms including tinctures, softgels, tablets, and edibles. Each method has its own pros and cons in terms of onset and duration of effects.

Q4: Is CBD legal? 

A: As of 2018, CBD derived from hemp plants (containing less than 0.3% THC) is legal throughout the United States, thanks to the Farm Bill. However, regulations can vary by state, and internationally, so it’s best to check your local laws.

Q5: Does CBD have other uses besides skin health? 

A: Yes, CBD has been reported to have many uses. It has been approved by the FDA in certain medications to assist cancer patients with nausea and to treat and prevent seizures in some conditions. It’s also shown promise in studies for potential anti-inflammatory properties and promoting a sense of calm.

Q6: Can I use CBD products before or after sun exposure? 

A: Yes, CBD topicals may be used after sun exposure to help rehydrate and soothe the skin. However, the effectiveness of CBD sunscreen has not been extensively researched, so it’s best to be cautious and always use a reliable sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Links:

https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/2018-farm-bill

http://www.clinicaterapeutica.it/ojs/index.php/ClinicaTerapeutica/article/view/377

https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/#.Wz9pHYjwbIU

https://iscbdforme.org/cannabis-cbd-and-sun-protection/

https://www.healthline.com/health/sunburn