To filter out the CBD marketing, here’s a cannabis breakdown: Cannabis (often referred to as marijuana) and hemp are two varieties of the same plant species, Cannabis sativa.

Since they share the same species name, they’re often lumped into one big family, and there seems to be a lot of confusion around their differences.

Averaged about 17% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that makes a person feel “high,” in 2017

Has to contain less than 0.3% THC to be sold legally

0% THC

Averaged less than 0.15% CBD in 2014

Averages at least 12%–18% CBD

Have no more than trace amounts of CBD

Cannabis has medicinal and therapeutic uses for chronic pain, mental health, and illnesses

Stalks of the hemp plant can produce clothing, rope, paper, fuel, home insulation, and much more
Seeds are cold-pressed for oil production; the oil can be used in cooking (as in hempseed milk and granola), beauty products, and even paint

CBD oil and hempseed oil are both trendy ingredients used in topical skincare products.

Hempseed oil, in particular, is known for not clogging pores, having anti-inflammatory properties, and providing superior moisturization to keep the skin looking and feeling supple. It can be added to a product or just used on its own as a face oil.

New research is coming out all the time about the skin-related benefits of CBD. What we know so far is it’s been shown to be a powerful anti-inflammatory, like its cousin hempseed oil. It reportedly helps in healing:

• acne
• sensitive skin
• rashes
• eczema
• psoriasis

CBD also has a ton of antioxidants. But are CBD beauty products actually more effective or worth paying more for?

It’s still too early to tell, and results can vary depending on the person. If there’s a beauty brand making major claims, you may want to do extra consumer research. Brands aren’t obligated to tell you how much CBD is in a product.