Cannabis has found its way into nearly every corner of skincare—from serums to moisturizers and now, facial cleansers. Known for its calming and balancing properties, cannabis-derived ingredients like CBD and hemp seed oil can be game-changers for the skin when used correctly. But as with anything new, it’s easy to go overboard. Incorporating a cannabis cleanser into your daily routine should feel like a natural upgrade, not a full-blown overhaul. Here’s how to do it right.
Start Slow and Observe Your Skin
When adding any new skincare product, especially one with active botanical ingredients like CBD or hemp, it’s important to start slow. Begin by using your cannabis cleanser once a day—ideally at night. This allows you to remove dirt, oil, and pollutants that have built up during the day while giving your skin time to adjust to the product.
CBD-infused cleansers often contain additional soothing compounds like aloe vera, green tea extract, or chamomile, all of which support barrier repair and hydration. However, if you notice any redness or sensitivity, scale back use to every other day. Skin tolerance varies from person to person, and moderation helps avoid overstimulation.
Choose the Right Formula for Your Skin Type
Not all cannabis cleansers are created equal. Some formulas are creamy and hydrating, designed for dry or mature skin, while others are gel-based for those prone to oiliness or breakouts.
- Dry skin: Look for a hemp seed oil–based cleanser with nourishing fatty acids and minimal foaming action.
- Oily or acne-prone skin: Choose a CBD cleanser that balances oil production and has natural antibacterial properties.
- Sensitive skin: Opt for fragrance-free formulas that combine CBD with gentle hydrators like glycerin or oat extract.
Matching the product to your skin type ensures you reap the benefits of cannabis skincare without causing dryness or irritation.
Don’t Double Up on Actives
One common mistake consumers make is pairing their new cannabis cleanser with too many other active ingredients. If your cleanser already contains exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic acid), avoid layering additional chemical exfoliants or retinoids immediately afterward.
CBD works best when it’s given room to shine. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help balance the effects of harsher actives, but overloading the skin can backfire. Keep your routine simple — cleanse, tone (if needed), and moisturize.
Timing Is Everything
Morning and evening routines serve different purposes. In the morning, your cleanser should refresh your skin and prep it for sunscreen and makeup. In the evening, it should remove buildup from the day and reset your skin before bed.
If your skin tends to be dry, stick to using the cannabis cleanser at night and simply rinse with water in the morning. If you have oily or combination skin, you may benefit from using it twice a day — but always monitor how your skin feels afterward.
Build Balance, Not Dependency
The ultimate goal is balance. Cannabis cleansers can calm inflammation, reduce redness, and even help control sebum production, but they’re not meant to replace every other skincare step. Think of them as your foundation — the first step in maintaining healthy, resilient skin.
By introducing your cannabis cleanser slowly, choosing the right formula, and keeping your routine balanced, you can enjoy its benefits without overdoing it. Your skin will thank you with that calm, nourished glow that cannabis skincare is known for.