I'd be surprised if you hadn't heard of CBD. Cannabidiol, also known as CBD for short, is often touted as being a wonder treatment for those with anxiety and chronic pain (although this is anecdotal). But now, the beauty world is catching on to its many other benefits. As one of over 100 active compounds in the cannabis plant, CBD can also help skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea as it also has anti-inflammatory properties. And this isn't just some new fad. According to data released this year, 6 million people in the UK have tried the stuff, so when new London celebrity-favourite spot Young LDN invited me to try our its CBD facial (Kate Moss and Lily Allen are fans), I jumped at the chance.
Young LDN informed me that when it comes to skincare, CBD is one of the most powerful antioxidants available helping to reduce redness and calm inflamed skin. CBD products are also full of vitamins A, D and E as well as fatty acids like omega 3, helping to give the skin an evener texture and boost the skin's health.
The facial itself lasts about 45 minutes and is tailored to your skin's needs. I struggle with hormonal acne and redness, so we kicked things off with a cleansing oil to thoroughly clean the skin of any traces of makeup or grime from the day (I do live in London, after all). Next up, a Grön CBD Rejuvenate Awakening Clay Mask was applied, which combines the anti-inflammatory powers of CBD with moisture-balancing properties of clay. My skin had been feeling super congested so this really felt like it was working it's magic to clear any problem spots and add some life back into my lacklustre complexion.
Next up, organic hemp extract, cucumber and seaweed were used to soothe and reduce redness in my skin. This mask was left on for about 6–10 minutes and removed with a hot cloth. After they applied the CBD oil, which was massaged deeply into my skin using a combination of pressure point and deep tissue massages. This was—and always is—my favourite part of a facial as it makes your skin look and feels lifted and supple. Finally, face and neck cream are applied to help plump and rejuvenate the skin using a combination of glycolic acid, royal jelly and bee propolis.
I left feeling glowy, relaxed and calm. Bonus: My skin has only got better as the week has gone on. I can see why Kate's a fan.
Interested in trying CBD products from the comfort of your own home? See and shop my picks below.
Banish inflamed skin with Rodial's CBD Sleep Drops which actively work to reduce redness and irritation while you slumber.
Take off the day with this calming cleanser infused with Hemp Oil and you'll be left with radiant skin.
Suffer from bad period pains? BeYou's CBD Muscle Balm helps to alleviate cramps with a mix of natural geranium, eucalyptus and lavender essential oils with 300mg strength CBD.
Another night product, this CBD and strawberry seed serum will leave you skin hydrated, nourished and replenished.
Feeling like spluging on your skincare? This CBD-infused oil will help to bring tired, lacklustre skin back to life. Oh, and it feels like silk on the skin.
YoungLDN CBD facials start at £75. You can book an appointment here.
Next up, the three haircuts London girls are asking for right now.
