CBD and CBG Ointment Improved Skin in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis

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A recent study further analyzed topical cannabinoid therapy for patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).¹ The tested formulation, which features 30% cannabidiol (CBD) and 5% cannabigerol (CBG), improved the skin’s hydration, lipid content, transepidermal water loss, and erythema.

CBD and CBG are the most commonly used cannabinoid substances in dermatology and can often be found in compounded medications, gels, creams, and emulsions.²

“Throughout the ages, the medicinal properties of hemp have been recognized, and the plants have been used to treat all types of skin inflammation,” the authors wrote.

The experimental, interventional study took place from May to July 2022. The trial included 9 patients (5 men and 4 women) between the ages of 20 to 67 years old with a clinical diagnosis of AD. The average age was 34.7 years.

The tested product was comprised of 30% CBD, 5% CBG, Cannabis sativa L. sativa oil, hemp seed oil, and cholesterol ointment. Patients underwent allergy tests prior to the study to determine if any ingredients would cause an allergic reaction. They were also asked to refrain from using any other cosmetic or medical products on the area. The ointment was applied to the affected regions of the forearms once a day right before going to bed. Participants were instructed to cover the area with dressing to enhance the product’s effectiveness.

Evaluations were conducted at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Disease parameters were recorded using the SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis) and EASI (Eczema Area and Severity Index) scales. Investigators measured several biophysical skin parameters, including corneometry, transepidermal water loss, sebumetry, and acidity. Before and after capillaroscopy images were taken.

After week 8, there was an increase in hydration compared to baseline (p < 0.001) and week 4 (p < 0.01). A similar change was seen in transepidermal water loss, with the greatest reduction seen at week 8 versus baseline (p < 0.001) and week 4 (p < 0.05). A significant increase in sebum level was observed only at week 8 (p < 0.05).

Erythema decreased significantly as early as week 4 (p < 0.05) with an even greater decrease 8 weeks after treatment began (p < 0.01). According to investigators, there were no statistically significant changes in melanin concentration (p = 0.624) or pH (p = 0.389). Skin lesions and itch were also reduced, and some patients found symptom remission. These findings align with similar literature that has been published regularly since 2005.

“A comparison of the results of our study with the findings of other studies has shown a common correlation between the application of creams and ointments containing selected cannabinoids and the improvement of the skin parameters in the studied patients, including hydration, sebum level, TEWL, erythema, and skin pH level,” the authors wrote.

Some patients did not fully comply with the regimen as they felt the texture of the product was too fatty. Further trials can utilize a greater sample size and ensure that participants follow the at-home instructions properly to avoid misuse or discontinuation. A repeat study is also recommended during the autumn-to-winter months when symptoms of AD are usually exacerbated.

The researchers recommend that future reviews, studies, and reports differentiate the types of cannabinoid products and their concentrations to avoid misinformation and self-medication. For example, these topicals should not be used for all dermatological conditions. Additionally, clinicians and patients should recognize the differences between essential and fixed oils.

Want to hear more pearls and expert insights on AD? Join us at the annual Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis Conference this June in Nashville, TN!

References

1. Burczyk DD, Wcisło-Dziadecka D, Olczyk P, Chełmecka E, Burczyk WK. Evaluation of Biophysical Parameters of the Skin of Patients With Atopic Dermatitis After Application of an Ointment Containing 30% Cannabidiol and 5% Cannabigerol. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2025;18:649-662. Published 2025 Mar 19. doi:10.2147/CCID.S472746

2. Kuchciak–Brancewicz M. Oleogel and Celugel–new media in Polish pharmacy formula. Dermatologia Praktyczna. 2022;1(74):1–6.