Is CBD worth the hype?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is currently receiving plenty of attention in the cosmetics industry. The question, however, is if CBD is really worth the hype. It is no doubt a potentially interesting material for the cosmetics industry, especially for skin and scalp care. Potentially interesting only, because there is still a lack of valid relevant efficacy studies for CBD applications in cosmetics products. 

Another possible concern recently expressed by the American FDA is the lack of safety data for CBD. On top of this, in many countries in the world, the regulatory situation of CBD remains unclear for the time being. For even more countries, it seems that it is better to stay away from the use of CBD in cosmetic formulations altogether. 

Is the heavy promotion of CBD an irrational hype?

The use of CBD in cosmetic formulations is heavily promoted, despite all the above-mentioned concerns. CBD is truly a fad. The nature of fads is that they tend to be largely irrational. Interestingly, the average cosmetics consumer largely acts irrationally. In the search of the next ‘hope in a jar’, CBD appeals to them. Quite a few cosmetic ‘indie brands’ have adopted the CBD-concept and no doubt see growth in their turn-over as a result. 

In contrast, multinational cosmetics companies are more conservative. They recognise the business potential of CBD cosmetics, but prefer to use an alternative such as hemp oil, which is safer from a regulatory point of view, or they use the CBD-concept only in their small brands, which are not, or at least less, on the radar of the competent authorities and potential plaintiffs.