By now, you’re probably at least a little familiar with CBD — you know, the otherthree-letter compound derived from the cannabis plant. Whereas the most ubiquitous cannabinoid, THC, is responsible for cannabis’ well-known psychoactive effects, CBD (aka, cannabidiol) delivers all of the health benefits — like decreasing pain, inflammation, and anxiety — with none of the high. Unless, of course, you get high on good hair days. Hair products made with CBD oil are on the rise, and they’re about to take your hair care game to a whole new level.

There’s a lot of confusion out there about what CBD oil actually is, though. CBD oil is oil that contains a concentration of CBD, which is derived from seeds of plants in the Cannabaceae family — including hemp and marijuana. Many CBD oils on the market are derived from hemp, since this plant has lower levels of THC (the “high”-inducing substance).

Researchers have discovered a wealth of benefits associated with CBD, including better sleep, mood regulation, and a boosted immune system… not to mention every millennial’s favorite: reduced anxiety. But as it turns out, the ingredient can also help stressed-out strands in the form of CBD-spiked shampoos, conditioners, and stylers.

“CBD oil contains all 21 known amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein,” Kevin Wachs, founder and CEO of Earthly Body (whose child company EMERA recently launched a line of CBD hair products), tells The Zoe Report. “Because of that, it helps to build up collagen and elastin, which are essential to hair strength.” He notes that by helping hair to build protein, CBD oil prevents breakage and even makes locks look thicker and fuller.

On top of that, CBD oil is high in antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E. “These three are the best studied of all the antioxidants — they protect us from pollution-induced free radicals,” Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, a Miami-based dermatologist with over 40 years of experience, tells The Zoe Report. In other words, the vitamin content of CBD shields hair from environmental damage like dryness and frizz.

“It’s also high in essential fatty acids such as Omegas 3, 6 and 9, so it helps to prevent moisture loss and keep hair well hydrated,” Wachs adds. “Additionally, one of the amino acids in CBD Oil, tyrosine, helps to maintain hair color.”

But where CBD oil really shines is scalp health. “CBD made waves in the beauty industry for its amazing benefits to the skin, and your scalp is no different,” Alli George, the marketing manager at Daintri, an online mecca for all things CBD, adds. “It’s regenerative for the skin, so it helps the scalp maintain necessary things to keep it healthy, like good blood circulation and quelling dandruff and sore or irritated hair follicles.”

It’s even been shown to stimulate hair growth, according to doctors. “People with receding or thinning hair may benefit from CBD use," Dr. Eshan Ali, the Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor, tells TZR. “Also, people with dry scalps show improvement from CBD oil.”

There is a bit of a gray area when it comes to selling CBD products, though. The initials are still controversial in some places due to their proximity to marijuana, and marijuana-derived CBD — even though it’s completely non-psychoactive — is still illegal in a handful of U.S. states (Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota) and in Canada, as well. But hemp-derived CBD is totally cleared for sale, which is why many CBD oil-boasting brands use the word “hemp” in their marketing. “A new trend that is emerging is that CBD companies are relabeling their products as ‘hemp’ only so that they don’t run into any issues selling them on the mass market via places like Amazon and Walmart,” George tells us. “In these cases, the products are the same.”

The key is to look for the words “hemp seed oil” on the ingredients list, which connotes CBD oil. If the product says “hemp extract” or just plain “hemp,” then it’s likely using ingredients from , which will dilute the concentration of CBD. “Regarding how they would affect hair, both will be beneficial in many ways,” George tells us, but notes that if you’re on the hunt for the full effects of CBD, you should “get the real deal.”

The good news is that both CBD oil and hemp are safe for anyone to use. “There is very minimal risk,” Dr. Ali says. “If anyone has an allergy to CBD, they may have a reaction, otherwise it is considered safe.”

This is from The Zoe Report

What You Need to Know about CBD Oils

CBD (cannabidiol) stories have been hitting the newswires like wildfire since the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill passed in December 2018.

Verbiage contained in the new Farm Bill removed hemp’s classification as a schedule one drug to that of an agricultural commodity, opening the floodgates for products containing CBD oil which offers health and wellness opportunities for salons and day spas.  

To understand the magnitude of this change in classification, let’s start with the history of hemp.

• Cannabis is one of the oldest plants in history, one of the first plants grown on purpose because of its versatility. It was used for food, clothing and shelter, and the oils derived from the plant's seeds were used to light lamps.
• For 60 years, prior to its prohibition, Cannabis was the 3rd largest pharmaceutical medication prescribed by physicians. Companies like Eli Lilly, Pfizer, and Parke Davis all had developed medicines containing Cannabis.
• In 1937, Congress used an obscure name “marijuana” to ban cannabis because it didn’t want push back from the pharmaceutical industry. The paper industry and DuPont Chemical didn’t like competing with cannabis because of its superior properties. Once the pharmaceutical industry found out cannabis was grouped with marijuana and banned from use, it was too late.
• Hemp and Marijuana are not the same but they are both part of the cannabis family. While Marijuana was mainly known for recreational purposes, Hemp has huge medicinal benefits when used in part as a healthy dietary supplement.

Health Benefits

The medical discovery of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) was made in the early 1990s. Fewer than 10% of medical schools actually study literature on ECS in their classes, because it’s that new. That’s why many physicians are hesitant to allow or recommend CBD products. They don’t have the time to research it and pharmaceutical companies are not eager to educate them on products they don’t have to market yet. With increased public demand, the physician’s learning curve will get faster.

• The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is the greatest neurotransmitter system in the body. Its primary function is to promote Homeostasis (balance in our bodies). It affects mood, memory, motor control, pain perception, appetite, sleep and so much more.
• Literally considered the engine for balance in our bodies, ECS is connected to all other systems. Endocannabinoid hormones are present in every tissue in our bodies as well.
• In conditions where your nerves are not functioning well and you’re are experiencing difficulties with pain, anxiety, insomnia, all these things are related to a dysfunction in the endocannabinoid system. ECS affects your immune system which in turn affects your level of inflammation and how your body responds to injury and infection.
• The composition of the endocannabinoid system consists of two receptors, two hormones and enzymes. CB1 receptors live primarily in the brain and spinal cord; they help control your nervous system function. CB2 receptors are located all over the body concentrated in your immune system.
• The release of the hormone Anandamide (meaning bliss) causes you to feel blissful. Its function affects pleasure, food intake, sleep, pain relief, anxiety and stress--it acts as a bridge between mind and body. Migraines, Fibromyalgia, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome all caused by a deficiency of Anandamide. When Anandamides are low, pain is high.
• The 2AG hormone regulates the immune system. It protects your neurons and has an anti-inflammatory function.
• Enzymes produce and breakdown these hormones.

If Cannabis is so great, why hasn’t Big Pharma taken steps to own it already?

It’s because they were restricted. Due to the prior illegal nature of Hemp, pharmaceutical companies couldn’t conduct studies on the benefits of CBD Oil without damaging relationships with the Food and Drug Administration and the Drug Enforcement Agency.

Pharmaceutical companies are way behind the supplement industry because they have to go through decades of research before coming out with a product. Their hands have been tied by bureaucracy.  This is why supplemental products containing CBD can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of pharmaceutical drugs. However, this is also why it’s so important to know the facts about CBD products and what to look for before you make a purchase.

CBD Oil and ECS

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is an informational paper. It does not promote CBD products as medical cures nor does it take the place of your physician’s advice and or prescribed treatments.

The Endocannabinoid System is fueled by our food supply. Our food supply is not as rich in nutrients as it used to be. CBD supports and mimics the ECS function with phytocannabinoids. CBD Oil is super fuel for ECS, full of linoleic acid and other key omega fatty acids to help rejuvenate the body.

• CBD can be made from full-spectrum oil or the CBD isolate and any variation in-between. In order to get full health benefits from using CBD products, it is important to use full-spectrum oil.
• Health Studies surrounding CBD proclaim it to be anti-bacterial which protects neurons, promotes bone growth, and reduces seizures and convulsions. More studies declare CBD can reduce blood sugar levels, suppress muscle spasms, and reduce inflammation.

Receptors impacted by CBD include Opioid receptors which affect pain : Dopamine receptors which affect memory and mood; and Serotonin receptors which affect anxiety and depression.

Full-Spectrum oil contains Cannabinoids, Terpenes, Flavonoids, Vitamins, Minerals, Proteins, and Fatty Acids. Using full-spectrum oils are the key to getting the most benefit from your dietary supplement.

CBD is Safe.

CBD is safe when purchased from a reputable company. There has never been one instance of overdose with CBD. As CBD supports the Endocannabinoid System, it normalizes, putting a flat cap on overactive systems. Using too much is just wasting product.

What to look for when looking for the best in Hemp CBD Oil.

• Hemp must be from a Certified Organic Source – The Hemp plant acts as a sponge. If soils contain metals, pesticides, or other toxins they will end up in the extracted oils.
• Must be water soluble and fast acting – Most oils will only provide 6% absorption level. An 80-90 absorption rate along with a fast onset of action (5-15 minutes) is an important factor especially if someone is taking it for pain.
• Must be Third-Party tested – Ask to see third-party documentation from a known source on the specific branded product, not just CBD products in general.
• Must be Full-Spectrum Oil – Full-Spectrum CBD Oil provides a full entourage effect with side benefits as opposed to side effects.

This is from Salon Today

​Premature hair loss can be frustrating to deal with, but luckily, there are ways to treat it — like adding one of the best vitamins for hair loss to your daily routine. While you should always aim to consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods as your main source of vitamins, supplements can be a great addition if you're not getting enough of certain nutrients.

Since there are many different vitamins for hair available, I tapped Dr. Debra Jaliman, an NYC-based dermatologist, to learn which options are most effective. She recommends looking for amino-acid- and protein-rich supplements, specifically an ingredient called L-Cysteine, as they help the body produce a vital component of hair structure: keratin. As well, biotin and antioxidants such as vitamins C and E are also vital. "Free radicals can damage the scalp and the hair follicles, and these antioxidants help cells fight off free radicals," she says, adding that vitamin B12 and iron also play an important role in hair growth.

To help you navigate the often-confusing world of dietary supplements, I've compiled a research-backed list of the best vitamins to take for skin and hair based on Dr. Jaliman's recommendations. I've included a variety of options at different price points for you to choose from. Shop my picks, below.
​
Editor's note: There are a variety of factors that contribute to hair loss, and while vitamins can help, it's always best to check with your doctor before adding a supplement to your diet.

1) The Overall Best Multivitamin For Hair Loss

Nutrafol's clinically-tested women's hair vitamin, which won an Allure Beauty Award in 2018, comes highly-recommended by Dr. Jaliman, who likes that it's drug-free and made with natural botanicals — including a special blend of vitamins, collagen and resveratrol — that help fight hair loss, rather than promote general hair health. "It has components that many other hair growth supplements do not have," she says, noting that it can also be taken as a preventative measure.

2) Also Great: An Antioxidant-Packed Vegan Supplement That Builds Collagen

MyKind Organics' gluten-free and organic plant collagen builder is great if you're after a vegan, non-GMO supplement. With a blend of free-radical-fighting antioxidants, biotin, and vitamins A, C and E, it's designed to "give the body some of the nutrients it needs for healthy hair." Plus, it has natural extracts like turmeric and green tea that fight inflammation.

3) An Advanced Collagen Formula With Hyaluronic Acid

The amino acids found in collagen can help your body function better. "The more collagen we have, the healthier our hair will be," notes Dr. Jaliman, and ForestLeaf's advanced collagensupplement is a solid non-GMO and gluten-free choice. It contains 1,000 milligrams of three different types of collagen (along with hair-strengthening ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C), which Dr. Jaliman says often boosts scalp health, too.

4) A Targeted L-Cysteine Protein Supplement That'll Boost Hair Growth

Dr. Jaliman says that "L-Cysteine is one of the most crucial of the amino acids for hair growth." This targeted supplement from NOWoffers free radical support and helps to maintain the structure of proteins in the body. Each tablet contains 500 milligrams of L-Cysteine along with vitamin B6 and vitamin C.

5) A Budget-Friendly Vitamin B12 Supplement That Also Promotes Hair Growth

Vitamin B12, aka "the energy vitamin," works to convert the food you eat into energy, thereby playing a major role in hair growth. And since B12 is naturally found in animal products like meat and fish, a targeted supplement like Nature Made's additive-free B12— which has 1,000 micrograms in each softgel — is particularly important for vegetarians and vegans. "A lack of B12 will cause hair growth to slow down or even stop completely in some people," says Dr. Jaliman.

6) A Targeted Biotin Supplement That Supports Healthy Hair, Skin & Nails

Nature's Bounty is an affordable and beloved supplement brand, so naturally their biotin softgels come highly-recommended consumers and doctors alike. Biotin, says Dr. Jaliman, is "important for energy production and known to improve hair health." Each softgel contains 10,000 micrograms of biotin, a type of B vitamin that supports energy metabolism and is known for its hair, skin, and nail benefits.

7) An Iron Supplement That Strengthens Hair & Won't Irritate Sensitive Stomachs

If you have a sensitive stomach or don't tolerate supplements well, you'll love Pure Micronutrients' easy-to-digest Iron Plus. According to Dr. Jaliman, low iron levels can actually cause unwanted changes in hair structure, such as thinning or shedding. Iron Plus is a targeted, non-GMO formula — complete with folic acid and vitamins C, B6 and B12 — that'll strengthen your hair follicles.

This article appeared on Bustle

When it comes to bad hair days, often we attribute them to falling asleep with wet hair, a bad blow dry or simply neglecting to wash our locks before work.

But in fact, the state of our mane can be down to our lifestyle as well.

From the hair type that depicts low iron levels to the warning signs your locks are giving you that your diet and digestion are poor, here, with the help of leading Australian trichologist, Jane Davies, FEMAIL reveals what your hair is trying to tell you.

1. You're stressed

Speaking to FEMAIL, Jane revealed that if your hair is looking worse than it did a few months ago, it could be more than a bad hair day:

'If your pony tail is getting thinner, if your hair is more brittle or if your hair doesn't grow as quickly or as long as it used to, it could be a sign that your body is stressed, or deficient in nutrients or other more medical or physiological issues,' she said.

'It's important to realize that hair vitality only comes about when the body is healthy.

'As hair cells are the second fasting growing cells in the body, they are dependent on every part of the body working synergistically and optimally together to provide the best possible hair growth.'

2. Your diet and digestion are poor

While you might think the signs that your diet and digestion are poor are mostly around your waistline, a diet laden with sugar, fat and carbs can also manifest in your tresses:

'Hair loss or thinning is a common consequence of somebody who does not provide the hair follicles with the correct amount of nutrition they require to function at the optimal level,' Jane explained.

As a a result of a bad diet, you might experience hair loss and thinning, and Jane highlighted that this is especially the case when you crash diet and cut out specific food groups, such as good sources of animal protein:

'When we eat a good source of bioavailable protein it's broken down in our stomachs into amino acids and this is a crucial part in producing strong healthy hair cells,' she explained.

'Also, if there are any underlying gut health issues, such as low stomach acid, intestinal permeability or candida overgrowth, these can also cause nutritional deficiencies and have a detrimental effect on hair growth and scalp health.'  

3. Your pill is messing with you

We all know the contraceptive pill has a huge impact on our hormones, but what about our hair?

According to Jane, it's 'becoming all too common for trichologists to come across young women who have been taking a high androgen index contraceptive pill that is causing some issues with hair growth and reduction of volume through the top part of the scalp'.

She said that if you suspect you have any hair thinning because of the contraceptive pill, you should consult a trichologist who may say you need treatment to reverse the progressive thinning pattern.

4. Your have low iron levels

As explained before, Jane said your hair can often show off the results of a diet low in iron and good sources of animal protein.

'The hair growth cycle will most often be the first thing to be affected, and the last thing to recover when you have deficiency in an essential micronutrient,' Jane explained.

'Telogen Effluvium - or excess hair shedding - is the hair loss pattern you are most likely to see.

'However, long term most nutritional deficiencies can also cause poor quality new hair, as the hair is not being replaced "like for like".'

The expert added that nutritional deficiencies affect the 'overall density of the hair shaft, which can make the hair become weak and brittle'.

If you're not a fan of meat and fish sources of iron, then make sure your hair is getting the adequate nutrients by opting for some eggs, pulses and beans and wholegrains in your diet.

5. You are washing your hair too little or too much

Last but not least, a question that is debated a lot by hairdressers and trichologists is whether we wash our hair too little or too much.

'I get asked this daily and it's my favorite question to answer,' Jane revealed.

'The skin on the scalp is an extension of the skin on your face. It's covered with 120,000 hair follicles which produce sebum (oil) continuously to keep your skin supple and help to maintain the correct pH balance.'

Jane outlined that 'contrary to what people think, regular shampooing is not in any way detrimental to your hair or scalp.

'In fact, done correctly and with the right products, it actually re-moisturises the hair.'

She said that if you refrain from washing your hair too much, then the oils will collect dirt and that dirt will sit there until you remove it.

Jane concluded that if you have any scalp issues, 'such as persistent flaking, oiliness or itching, you will see some improvement if you start shampooing more frequently.'  

So no need to feel guilty if you're a daily hair washer, then.

Jane Davies, Founder of The Hair Physio, is a Certified Trichologist and a Member of the World Trichology Society. To find out more, please click here. 
 
This article first appeared on Daily Mail