Everything you need to know about the Cutaneous Endocannabinoid System

You’ve surely read that our formulations contain two active ingredients from the Cannabis plant: CBD and CBG. Both are encapsulated by niosomes to allow better absorption and, consequently, better effectiveness. But how do these molecules interact with the skin? They do so through the endocannabinoid system.

How CBD and CBG interact with our skin

Even the skin, like the rest of our body, has its own internal regulation system called the cutaneous endocannabinoid system (abbreviated as ECS) that helps the skin maintain its natural balance and respond to various stimuli, such as inflammation, irritation, or temperature changes. The main elements of this system are three: the receptors, found on skin cells; the endocannabinoids, which are molecules naturally produced by our body that bind to the receptors; the enzymes, which serve to create or destroy these endocannabinoids when necessary.

The role of the ECS is to maintain homeostasis, or balance: for example, it regulates how much sebum is produced, helps calm inflammation or itching, participates in cell regeneration, and protects the skin barrier. When we apply Essential formulations with CBD and CBG, these molecules can interact with the Endocannabinoid System. The result? A series of cellular reactions that can soothe irritations, help rebalance sebum production, and improve hydration.

Soothing effects

One of the most important benefits of CBD and CBG for the skin is their ability to soothe irritations. They act on a sort of natural switch present in skin cells, called the CB2 receptor, which is very active especially in immune system cells. When this receptor is stimulated, it tends to turn off the inflammatory response: in practice, it helps tell the body “stop inflaming.”

Various laboratory studies have shown that CBD can reduce the production of molecules that cause inflammation, especially in stressful situations for the skin, such as exposure to smog or irritants. CBG also contributes to calming skin irritations, although it acts differently.

Help against skin aging

CBD and CBG can also protect the skin from the signs of aging. They are known for their antioxidant properties, meaning the ability to defend the skin from damage caused by factors such as sun exposure, pollution, smoking, and stress. All elements that contribute to the production of the well-known free radicals, which damage skin cells and can lead to the appearance of wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and spots.

CBD, in particular, is useful because:

• Neutralizes free radicals directly;
• Activates the skin’s natural defense systems, increasing the production of “protective” enzymes that repair damage and help cells function better.

CBD and CBG, together, form an effective pair: while one works against free radicals and irritations, the other protects the skin’s support fibers and acts on spots. Additionally, both help the skin’s natural barrier stay strong, preventing dryness and irritations, which often worsen with age.

That’s why we at Essentialnio have chosen to use CBD and CBG in our formulas: by combining nature with science, we offer the skin a gentle yet effective treatment.