Cannabis for Painful Skin Conditions

Skin conditions can be painful too. We are fortunate to have CBD and other cannabinoids as well as THC for many skin conditions including acne, itch, eczema, psoriasis, and wounds of all sorts. The cannabinoids help not only with the signs and symptoms of the dermatologic problem, but also help alleviate any concurrent pain. Cannabis can be an excellent alternative to opioids for pain, and may help to reduce the opioid crisis. First, we will examine the difference between hemp and cannabis, chemically, medicinally, and legally. Next, we will do a brief overview of just what the endocannabinoid system is, and how it is involved in the skin, and explore recent scientific studies behind cannabinoids and skin conditions. Other characteristically painful skin conditions that are not as frequently encountered include pyoderma gangrenosum, hidradenitis suppurativa, calciphylaxis, and vasculitis. Included in this course will be a summary of what skin care and topical pain products are already on the market, and what bright options the future holds. (Recorded at PAINWeek 2018)