Since CBD products, containing less than 0.2 per cent THC, were declared legal in 2018, they have become increasingly popular among customers of all industries – haircare included. 

 

According to Google Trends, CBD shampoo was Googled 3,000 times on average last month, with searches increasing by 13 per cent in the past year. 

 

But what are the benefits of CBD-infused products? And how can we incorporate them into our haircare routine? 

 

Hair Expert Alice Dawkins of Milk + Blush reveals all… 

 

What are the benefits of CBD haircare? 

 

While most research focuses on its potential health benefits for various conditions, CBD-infused products can also be great for hair and scalp health for several reasons:  

 

1.    Scalp and hair health  

 

CBD oil might help improve scalp health because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the scalp, reducing problems like dandruff, dryness, and itchiness. Meanwhile, its moisturising properties can help balance out the scalp’s production of sebum, whether you have an overly dry or oily scalp. 

 

For hair health, CBD is packed with 21 known amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. As hair is primarily made up of protein, applying a CBD-infused product can help strengthen it and prevent breakage. 

 

It’s also known to be a good source of vitamins E, C, A, and B, which can promote a healthy scalp and hair. 

 

2.    Protection against hair loss 

 

One of the main causes of hair loss is stress. High-stress levels, combined with a sudden hormonal change, can switch hair follicles from growth to resting mode and result in telogen effluvium – a form of hair loss characterised by hair thinning and an increase in hair shedding triggered by a shock to the system that induces stress. 

 

CBD has been researched for its potential anti-anxiety and stress-relieving effects. If stress is a contributing factor to hair loss, then the calming effects of CBD might indirectly benefit hair health. 

Plus, due to its high content of antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, CBD might help protect the hair from environmental damage like oxidation, UV rays, and pollution, which can lead to hair breakage or hair loss. 

 

3.    Hair growth 

 

CBD oil is rich in fatty acids like omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9, which can help improve the quality of the scalp tissue. Stronger scalp tissue means hair follicles expand faster, which means longer hair. 

 

Applying CBD oil to the scalp can improve blood circulation, which may, in turn, promote healthier hair follicles and hair growth. 

 

How and when should I use it? 

 

CBD shampoos, conditioners and oils may require different types of applications for best results. 

 

Every day, or every other day, apply a thin layer of CBD oil to wet hair with your palms and massage it in using your fingertips, working your way across the surface of your head. Then, style as desired. 

 

Meanwhile, CBD-infused shampoo and conditioners should be used two to three times per week for best results or as instructed on the product’s packaging. 

 

Apply a small amount of shampoo, around the size of a 50p coin, work into a lather and massage it into the scalp.  

 

Leave it on for five to 10 minutes to ensure it penetrates the scalp and hair shaft effectively before rinsing it thoroughly and styling it as desired. 

 

Keep in mind that shampoo and conditioner products should be used consistently. Regularly nourishing your hair with CBD helps it adjust to the benefits. 

 

As with any new product, it’s recommended to do a patch test to ensure no allergic reactions occur, and it might be a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or haircare expert before trying new CBD-infused hair products.