Key takeaways
- CBD shampoos will not get you high or make you fail a drug test.
- CBD shampoos protect the scalp, moisturize the scalp and promote hair growth.
- CBD shampoos are safe and easy to use. Research shows that the presence of THC in high concentration may reduce the effectiveness of CBD shampoos.
There is an increased interest in the use of CBD-infused skincare products thanks to CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system and its numerous therapeutic benefits. This article will tell you all you need to know about CBD shampoos.
CBD shampoo, what are they?
CBD shampoo is a hair care product infused with CBD. CBD is known for its potential health and wellness benefits, and when incorporated into shampoos, it aims to provide various advantages for the hair and scalp.
CBD shampoos; how are they made?
CBD shampoos are made through a process that involves infusing the shampoo formulation with CBD extract. Here is a general overview of how CBD shampoos are typically made:
- CBD Extraction: The first step involves extracting CBD from the cannabis plant. CBD can be derived from hemp, a variety of cannabis that is low in THC. Common extraction methods include CO2 extraction, cold extraction or solvent-based extraction. Cold extraction tends to preserve all the naturally occurring compounds like CBDa in the cannabis plant.
- Isolation and Purification: After extraction, the CBD is often isolated and purified to remove any impurities or residual compounds. This results in a concentrated form of CBD, which may be in the form of CBD isolate or CBD oil.
- Formulation: The isolated CBD is then incorporated into the shampoo formulation. This can be achieved by blending it with other ingredients such as carrier oils, emollients, and surfactants that make up the shampoo base. The formulation may also include other beneficial ingredients for hair health.
- Quality Control: Reputable manufacturers subject their CBD shampoos to rigorous quality control measures. This includes testing for the concentration of CBD, ensuring that the product contains the stated amount of CBD and is free from contaminants.
- Packaging: Once the formulation is complete and has passed quality control, the CBD shampoo is packaged into bottles or containers for distribution.
It's important to note that the specific manufacturing process can vary between brands, and the quality of the final product depends on the quality of the CBD used and the overall formulation. Consumers should choose CBD shampoos from reputable manufacturers who provide transparent information about their sourcing, extraction methods, and testing processes.
What are the possible benefits of CBD shampoos?
CBD shampoos are designed to be used like regular shampoos, providing a potentially therapeutic and nourishing experience for the hair and scalp. However, individual responses may vary, and it's advisable to choose products from reputable brands. The possible benefits of CBD shampoos over regular shampoos are summarized below;
- Promotes Scalp Health: CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe and calm the scalp. It could be beneficial for those with conditions like psoriasis or eczema that affect the scalp.
- Moisturizes the Hair and Scalp: CBD oil is rich in fatty acids and nutrients that can nourish and moisturize both the hair and the scalp, potentially reducing dryness and improving overall hair health.
- Strengthens Hair: The presence of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals in CBD may contribute to stronger and more resilient hair.
- Reduces Dandruff: CBD's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may help address dandruff issues, providing relief from flakiness and irritation.
- Improves Hair Texture: CBD may enhance hair texture, making it smoother and more manageable.
- Supports Hair Growth: Some studies suggest that CBD may stimulate hair growth by promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Antioxidant Protection: CBD possesses antioxidant properties that can help protect hair from environmental damage and oxidative stress.
What does research say about CBD shampoos?
A study from 2021 found that using CBD-rich hemp extract led to an average increase of 93.5% in hair regrowth. This extract interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) and has unique effects on making hair grow longer. It activates certain cells in the hair follicles called hair matrix keratinocytes through receptors in the hair follicle cells, all thanks to the ECS. This suggests that CBD from hemp might have some exciting benefits for helping hair to grow.
Another research paper published in 2022 shows that the presence of CBD in topical extracts is essential for skin health and promoting hair growth.
Are CBD shampoos safe?
Generally, CBD shampoos are considered safe for most people when used as directed. However, as with any cosmetic or wellness product, individual reactions may vary, and it's essential to consider a few factors:
- Quality of the Product: Ensure that you purchase CBD shampoos from reputable brands that adhere to quality standards. Look for products that provide verifiable third-party testing results, indicating the absence of contaminants and accurate CBD concentrations.
- THC Content: Research shows that the presence of other cannabinoids like THC may reduce the effectiveness of CBD shampoos. CBD shampoos should contain less than 0.3% THC to comply with legal regulations. This minimal THC level is unlikely to produce psychoactive effects.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: Check the ingredients list for potential allergens or substances that may cause skin sensitivities. If you have known allergies to certain compounds, it's advisable to patch-test the product first.
Frequently asked questions
How to use CBD shampoos?
Before using a new CBD shampoo, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions or irritation. If you don’t experience any adverse side effects then you can go on to use the CBD shampoo as any other shampoo in the market.
Are CBD shampoos legal?
Yes, CBD shampoos are considered legal in many regions, especially when they are derived from hemp plants and contain less than 0.3% THC. THC is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that is responsible for the "high" sensation. The legality of CBD products, including shampoos, is often tied to the source of the CBD and the THC content.
Can I get high from using CBD shampoos?
No, you cannot get high from using CBD shampoos. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound and it does not produce the intoxicating effects commonly associated with THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. The THC content in CBD shampoos is typically very low, often less than 0.3%, which is not enough to cause any psychoactive effects.
Will I fail a drug test after using CBD shampoo?
While it's unlikely, there is a very small possibility of failing a drug test after using CBD shampoo. The reason for this is that some CBD products, including shampoos, may contain trace amounts of THC. However, the THC content in most CBD products, including shampoos, is typically very low (less than 0.3%), which is unlikely to cause psychoactive effects or result in a positive drug test.
Want to Learn More?
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Sources
Smith, G., & Satino, J. (2021). Hair Regrowth with Cannabidiol (CBD)-rich Hemp Extract: A Case Series. Cannabis, 4(1), Article 1.
Gupta AK, Talukder M. A cannabinoid Hairy-Tale: Hair loss or hair gain? J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Dec;21(12):6653-6660. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15427. Epub 2022 Oct 14. PMID: 36181341.
Smith GL. Hair Regrowth with Novel Hemp Extract: A Case Series. Int J Trichology. 2023 Jan-Feb;15(1):18-24. doi: 10.4103/ijt.ijt_34_22. Epub 2023 Apr 19. PMID: 37305187; PMCID: PMC10251293.