It’s 2019, and weed is buzzier now than it’s been since 1968 — just not for the reason you’d think. The psychoactive plant technically known as cannabis has found itself in an unlikely position as the trendiest skin-care ingredient you don’t need a state-mandated medical-marijuana card to buy. But should you really incorporate it into your routine?First things first: When people talk about weed beauty, we’re talking about cannabidoil, or CBD for short, the non-psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. You can find CBD just about anywhere these days — even on your eyelashes — but the most notable benefits in regard to the beauty industry come from topical products, like body lotions, balms, and salves. Its anti-inflammatory properties are excellent for soothing aches and pains from ailments like scoliosis and endometriosis, as well as treating irritated skin conditions like eczema.That said, there aren’t a whole lot of vetted studies to back these claims up just yet. Considering the DEA largely regulates cannabis and cannabis-related products, we have yet to be blessed with hard-and-fast clinical data. So, no, you shouldn’t expect your traditional doctor to recommend lotion infused with cannabidoil for your back pain, or CBD salves for your period cramps.But the CBD industry is growing faster than laws could ever possibly change, with new products and brands cropping up all over the country catering to this exact craze. At this rate, it feels like every single day brings a new CBD beauty product you need to know about — so we tested them all, so you don’t have to. After seeing how the newest formulas stack up against our daily aches and irritations, we found the ones we may never be able to live without…At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.”I found out I had endometriosis two years ago. I have the worst cramps because of it, with most of the pain traveling from my pelvis to my back. Since my diagnosis, I’ve read about other people using CBD products to help ease bodily pain, but this was my first time ever using one. Truth be told, I was really skeptical. How could a cream really work that well?The first time I used the Lord Jones lotion was right before I got my period. Initially, it felt just nice, like any other cooling lotion. After rubbing the lotion on the cramping hot spots, though, I felt an instant relief — far beyond the initial chilling sensation. I don’t know if it’s the CBD or just a placebo effect, but even the scent was relaxing! Partially thanks to the fact that the packaging is on-point, this is now one part of my nightly routine that I’m not totally mad about." — Rachel Chen, YouTube content strategistLord Jones High CBD Formula Body Lotion, $60, available at SephoraOr Try…This multi-purpose balm — put it on your skin or drink it in your coffee — works best for long-term joint pain, throbbing migraines, and sore muscles post-Flywheel. What’s more, some fans swear that it rids their period cramps in under five minutes.LEEF Organics Revive, $30, available at LEEF OrganicsOr Try…This spray-on CBD formula that uses magnesium and arnica to ease discomfort fast. If you don’t buy it for the quick results, consider it for the chic, white-label packaging.Vertly Hemp Infused Relief Lotion, $48, available at Neiman Marcus"I’ve tried a smattering of CBD skin-care products and, overall, I’ve had pretty much the same experience: These are nice creams, but are they really doing anything? But this is the first time I’d used a CBD cream specifically with my keratosis pilaris (KP) and eczema in mind. After noticing an eczema flare-up on my neck this week, I immediately put some of the Herb Essntls body lotion on it, which managed to quell my scratching for most of the day (well, until I got stressed again and scratched the spot out of habit).Judging solely as a lotion: It’s nice! The lightweight formula allows it to sink in immediately, so it doesn’t ruin my clothes. Sure, it’s very soothing for my irritated skin, but could it replace my prescription-grade hydrocortisone? Probably not. Does it look really pretty on my vanity and stall my scratching at the office? Definitely." — Mi-Anne Chan, beauty writer & video hostHerb Essntls Body Lotion, $48, available at Herb EssntlsOr Try…Unlike other cannabis-infused beauty products, this one chooses to focus on improving the complexion of your skin as opposed to under-the-skin aches. If you’re looking to ease topical issues like inflamed rashes, this botanical hemp blend is for you. Bonus: The balm really helps to lock in moisture all day long.Charlotte’s Web Hemp Infused Balm, $14.99, available at Charlotte’s WebOr Try…A healing skin balm — free of gluten, sulfates, and fragrances — that uses vitamin E and manuka honey to soothe dry, inflamed skin that just won’t quit.Cannuka Healing Skin Balm, $58, available at DermStore"I only found out a few years ago that I have a very slight, albeit very uncomfortable, bend in my spine. I’m also top-heavy, so needless to say, I’m a constant sloucher with back pain that requires regular visits to my chiropractor. This lotion is helping to make that regular frustration better — even if only a little.Unlike a hit of a real joint, this CBD lotion won’t turn you into goo on the spot — but my muscle tension does feel slightly eased, just enough so that I can sit straight in my desk chair for eight hours without complaint. But there is one minor con: My pain is so persistent, I need a lot of this stuff throughout the day, which means I’ll be going through this bottle fast. Nonetheless, this is one expense I’m willing to make if it means I can toss my Bengay and IcyHot patches for good." — Samantha Sasso, Beauty WriterSagely Naturals Relief & Recovery Cream, $35.99, available at Sagely NaturalsOr Try…With 100 mg of cannabidoil, this peachy gel soothes body pains instantly. It’s not as thick as other balms and lotions, so it may need to be applied several times throughout the day, but you’ll be left with a soft spot for its temporary healing power nonetheless.Kush Queen Melt CBD Lotion, $39.99, available at Kush QueenOr Try…One CBD lotion that, when liberally applied to your worst ache, offers relief before you can reach for the Advil.CBD For Life Pure CBD Hand and Body Massage Lotion, $22, available at CBD For LifeLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?Toss The Pigskin! 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Samantha Sasso
Source: Refinery29