Aforé study finds anti-aging effects by combining retinol and CBD
31 Jan 2022 --- Skincare company, Aforé has published a research paper showcasing the methods and results of topically applying retinol and cannabidiol (CBD). The study proves the effectiveness of CR Emulsion, a face cream by Aforé containing CBD, retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid.
“CBD is anti-inflammatory and pro-healing in nature. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties provided by CBD are an essential component of protecting the skin and contribute to the graceful aging of any skin type,” says Dr. Julius Few, founder of Aforé.
According to Innova Market Insight, consumers are increasingly accepting the use of CBD and hemp to promote health and wellness benefits.
Reduced side effects of retinol with CBD
In the study, the CR-Topical face cream was found to improve overall skin quality. The cream contained CBD added to a 0.2% retinol solution. Static wrinkles (mouth, cheeks and neck) and dynamic wrinkles (caused by facial movements) also improved.
Results were seen without the usual side effects (redness, dryness, burning or peeling) of using retinol as CBD brings anti-inflammatory and reduced oxidative stress.
Water-soluble CBD was used, not the usual CBD infused “coconut oil/medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, which can clog pores or make skin look oily or dull,” explains Dr. Few.
The combination of CBD, retinol and other botanicals in CR Emulsion have complementary biochemical pathways, ensuring the maintenance of healthy skin for anti-aging, the study notes.
CBD is gaining recognition in personal care for its properties that calm and nourish the skin. 
Aforé aims to restore and maintain skin in a state of “before” – before sun damage, pollution exposure and aging.
Four-dimensional beauty
Dr. Few’s four-dimensional beauty (4D) is a standard of evaluating beauty by factoring in daily facial and body movements. This was applied in the study by assessing skin based on facial movements.
“The movement of our faces during communication is central to how we perceive ourselves and are perceived by others,” explains Dr. Few.
“By capturing movements of the face with short videos, both the treating physician and the patient have access to a more accurate reflection of what is observed in day-to-day life, and an evaluation of the most relevant effects of treatment is possible,” he adds.
Methods of testing CR Emulsion
The study used standardized before and after pictures to evaluate the effects of the cream. Additionally, the 4D assessment was used on videos of patients making various facial expressions.
Having a range of improved facial impressions can boost confidence and openness of expression, believes Dr. Few. Technically, studying expressions shows how fine lines, textures and evenness in tone in the skin can impact expressiveness.
The study aimed to “assess efficacy and tolerability of CR-Topical [water-soluble CBD] for improving facial skin.”
A group of 10 subjects (ten females and one male) aged 20-53 years were selected based on facial skin showcasing visible pores, dehydration, roughness and static/dynamic wrinkles.
For 42 days, the group applied CR-Topical on their face once every day. Their skin was measured on days one, 21 and 42, “using the global ranking scale (GRS) with Comprehensive Skin Analysis by the subject and senior investigator, as well as by a blinded reviewer (board-certified plastic surgeon).”
The greatest mean difference was seen in visible pores, dehydration, surface roughness and static and dynamic wrinkles.
Subject satisfaction was 100%, tolerability of CR-Topical was excellent with a 90% willingness to recommend the product.
Edited by Venya Patel
