Many have likely heard about the budding trend of hemp and hemp- derived, CBD-infused facials. Those who are not currently providing hemp-infused offerings but are curious about this rapidly expanding market could be hesitant because of unanswered questions they might have. These questions could include: is it just a passing trend, is it legal, will clients get high, can a professional drive after performing hemp-infused facial treatments all day, is hemp seed oil the same as CBD, what results should clients expect to see, and when should it be used?

The truth is, all these questions are fair. Professionals should want to know everything they can because they care and want to provide the highest quality of service. Well, to help provide clarity, here are the answers to some of these commonly asked questions.

IS IT JUST A PASSING TREND?
Will CBD burn out as quickly as it has blazed in? Hemp has been used for thousands of years and, for centuries, most cultures viewed hemp as a gift or treasure from the divine spirit to be used during ceremonies. Hemp can be used for food, fuel, fiber, medicine, and beyond. The Chinese used hemp in mixtures as topical anesthetics. The Romans used hemp concoctions to treat burns. In India and the Middle East, it was applied as a paste to relieve skin ailments. So, is it just a recent trend? No.

IS IT LEGAL?
Yes! The Farm Bill of 2014 and 2018 legalized and regulates domestic industrial hemp and differentiates hemp from other cannabis plants, specifically marijuana. What is the difference between hemp and marijuana? The Farm Bill of 2018, signed into law by President Donald Trump, defines hemp as a cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% THC (Section 10113).

WILL CLIENTS GET HIGH?
No. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid that does not have an intoxicating effect. Industrial hemp cultivated for skin care infusions is bred with high CBD content. Furthermore, a reputable skin care company will be able to provide third and even fourth party testing to show a full cannabinoid profile, indicating potency. With that said, it is safe for both the professional and client to drive after a service including hemp-derived, CBD-infused products.

IS HEMP SEED OIL THE SAME AS CBD?
No! Though there are many skin nutritive properties of hemp seed oil, it is not the same as CBD. They do pair together in formulations beautifully, but to say they are the same would be to say grapeseed extract is the same as grape juice. They are different. Unfortunately, some companies have made claims that their products contain CBD, but they actually only contain hemp seed oil. To clarify, ask for the milligram content of CBD in each product and look for cannabidiol in the ingredient deck.

WHAT RESULTS SHOULD CLIENTS EXPECT TO SEE?
Hemp is a powerplant. CBD, an extract from the hemp plant, is a proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that encourages the endocannabinoid system to achieve and maintain homeostasis or balance. Studies show CBD regulates cell proliferation and sebocyte regulation. Aging is an inflammatory disease and pigment is caused from inflammation. Acne is an imbalance in sebum, bacteria, and skin cell production. Hemp-derived CBD can address many of the main concerns of clients. So, this influx of CBD-infused skin care products makes sense.

WHEN SHOULD CBD BE USED IN A SERVICE?
At every step. A CBD-infused cleanser may seem counterintuitive, as it will be removed. However, think of it as the switch that signals the endocannabinoid system to turn on. Use the cleansing process as an opportunity to massage the messenger into the skin. Properly formulated products will include other sophisticated ingredients such as enzymes for exfoliation, peptides for firming, and melanin suppressants. Licorice root or watermelon extract work to maximize the melanogenesis property of CBD. CBD-infused masks are an excellent integration into service offerings, as well as a skin-compatible facial oil where CBD is paired with hemp seed oil to use for facial massage. Where does it fit? Everywhere.

Hemp and hemp-derived CBD facials are not just a trend. They are a glimpse at the future of facials altogether. It is natural to have questions. Look for a company who can answer them and who has educational opportunities for professionals to become hemp and hemp-derived CBD experts. To continue providing the best service offerings for clients, look for a company that aligns with the spa’s skin care philosophies. Clients will thank you!