The efficacy and safety of topical hemp seed extract in treatment of acne vulgaris: a split-face, double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial

A prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting teenagers and young adults is acne vulgaris. The disease may have a negative influence on wellbeing in both physical and psychological ways. Treatment of acne vulgaris is depends on disease severity. Currently, first-line medical therapy for acne vulgaris mostly come with side effects varies from irritation to teratogenicity. Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the most well-known phytocannabinoid from Cannabis Sativa L. plant, is shown to have an ability to cure acne vulgaris by its antilipogenic, anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. Several studies have been proven that hemp seed and its extract contain CBD as a major composition of all phytocannabinoids. Recent studies about potential of CBD and hemp seed extract for treating acne vulgaris is still in vitro, but lack of clinical trial in human. Therefore, this study compares the effectiveness of topical hemp seed extract to a placebo in the treatment of acne vulgaris. For a period of 12 weeks, topical treatments will be given twice daily to either the left or right side of their faces, at random. The result will be interpreted objectively by acne lesion count, erythema index, sebum level and subjectively by physichian’s clinical assessment score and patient’s satisfaction score. The result revealed a statistically decreased of acne lesion count particularly in inflammatory acne lesions. Moreover, sebum level was also found significantly reduction by decreased 44.79% from baseline. However, contrasting from previous research, we established that there was no significant improvement in erythema index. Adverse events found in hemp seed extract cream were mild, including skin dryness and itchiness. There was no serious adverse effects presented in both interventions. In conclusion, hemp seed extract cream is safe and effective alternative treatment option for mild to moderate acne vulgaris.