Cannabidiol and ultraviolet-induced skin damage

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid from Cannabis sativa, has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective effects in limited, predominantly preclinical studies. Amid growing consumer interest in CBD-infused skincare, including its proposed use as a sunscreen additive, a careful investigation of the available evidence is warranted. This narrative review examined 19 peer-reviewed studies to explore CBD’s effects on biological responses to ultraviolet (UV)-induced skin damage and their potential relevance to sunscreen additive research. CBD exhibited antioxidant effects by decreasing reactive oxygen species and free radicals, activating the Nrf2 pathway, preventing lipid peroxidation, and stabilizing lipid membranes. Additionally, CBD reduced inflammation by inhibiting NFκB, while activating PPARγ and the endocannabinoid system. Studies further suggested that CBD may be cytoprotective and a modulator of apoptosis, while also displaying an ability to enhance melanogenesis through MAPK signaling, which may have implications for melanin-mediated photoprotection. These findings indicate that CBD may influence downstream biological responses to UV exposure, but has not yet demonstrated direct UV-filtering activity, broad-spectrum photoprotection, or improved performance in a finished sunscreen formulation. Limitations of this review include reliance on preclinical data, variability among experimental models restricting comparability and generalizability, and a lack of clinical trials involving human subjects. Further research is necessary to evaluate CBD’s safety, long-term effects, optimal formulations, interactions with established UV filters, and potential role as an adjunctive ingredient in photoprotective skincare and skin cancer prevention.

Abstract from Crossref