There’s no denying that cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, is all the rage RN. It’s become the beauty buzzword of the moment promising a whole heap of skincare benefits that we can’t seem to get enough of.
If you’re wondering what it actually is, here’s the intel. CBD (aka cannabinoids) is a chemical compound found in hemp plants. It’s a naturally occurring substance that is different from its cousin delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major illegal psychoactive ingredient.
Queen of Egypt, supposedly used it to help keep her skin looking youthful and refreshed thousands of years ago. The Body Shop’s founder Anita Roddick was one of the earliest hemp beauty adopters, realising the benefits of hemp seed oil – derived from one of the oldest crops in the world – back in the nineties and The Body Shop have been using it as a key ingredient in its products ever since.
And now The Body Shop is getting us super-psyched because it’s launching its first-ever CBD skincare collection, from just £17. And, trust us, after a ridiculously bumpy 2020, if your skin is playing havoc, you’re going to want every one of these products, because the new range is ALL about helping stressed* skin. Whether you’ve got all-over dryness or rough patches and not much glow, this collection is going to be the Holy Grail of your skincare routine!
Each of the three new arrivals contains natural-origin CBD, along with the key ingredients: hemp seed (rich in omega fatty acids that help restore moisture on skin), squalane (a hero hydrater derived from olives) and patchouli (known for its skin-calming and healing properties).
Each product contains natural-origin CBD, along with three other key ingredients: hemp seed oil (rich in omega fatty acids), squalane (a hero hydrater derived from olives) and patchouli (known for its skin-calming and healing properties).
CBD Restoring Face Oil, £25, is the jewel of the collection[/link]. The blend of 99.9% natural-origin ingredients, including CBD, hemp seed oil and essential oils infused with calming patchouli extract, helps to smooth and soothe dry, dehydrated skin like one big hug.
We love the lightweight, non-greasy texture. Just shake a few drops into the palm of your hand and dab in small dots onto cleansed skin before smoothing over the face, morning and night.
Then there’s the must-have CBD Replenishing Moisture Cream, £20, which is set to be your skin’s new BFF. This is the day cream you’ve been looking for: one that’s rich and indulgent, and it’s made from 97% natural-origin ingredients, including naturally derived CBD, hemp seed oil, squalane and patchouli extract. The unique formula sinks into your skin instantly, leaving it so soft and with a naturally healthy looking glow you’ll want to keep stroking it (but hands off!). We recommend you warm the formula between your fingers for a few seconds until it becomes translucent, then press gently into your skin. Ideally, apply just after the CBD Restoring Facial Oil for extra skin happiness.
And last, but not least, there’s the CBD Soothing Oil-Balm Cleansing Mask, £17; a hard-working daily wash that’s jammed with hydrating Community Fair Trade organic olive oil, purifying white clay and a blend of CBD and hemp seed oil. The mask will gently lift away the day’s dirt and grime, cleaning your pores and conditioning your skin at the same time, leaving your face feeling soothed and moisturised. Leave it for 3-5 minutes to get working, then rinse off – you’ll notice smoother, cleaner-feeling skin in an instant.
The great thing about The Body Shop’s CBD collection? The products can be used on all skin types, they’re all vegan certified and, of course, the hemp seed oil and Community Fair Trade olive oil are sourced ethically and sustainably. That’s a big HELL, YES from us!
Your skin is going to be so grateful. Just you wait.
*The Body Shop classifies stressed skin as skin that experiences discomfort from dehydration, dryness, loss in luminosity and decline on skin’s overall appearance