Marijuana-derived skincare has become one of beauty’s fastest-growing frontiers, raising questions about whether these products—particularly face cleansers—are safe for daily use. In skincare, marijuana-infused products typically fall into two categories: those formulated with cannabinoids such as CBD or THC, and those using cannabis sativa (hemp) seed oil, which contains no cannabinoids.

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not pre-approve cosmetic ingredients, it requires that all cosmetics be safe for consumer use and properly labeled. CBD in cosmetics still occupies a gray area, as the FDA has yet to establish formal guidelines. As a result, consumers are advised to look for reputable brands that provide full ingredient lists and third-party lab testing to ensure purity and accuracy.

For most people with healthy skin, marijuana face cleansers that are well-formulated, fragrance-free, and pH-balanced are generally safe for daily use. Early research suggests CBD may have anti-inflammatory and barrier-strengthening properties, which could make cleansers containing it feel gentle on the skin. However, long-term studies on cannabis-infused cleansers remain limited, meaning users should still apply a degree of caution and observe how their skin responds.

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects are similar to those seen with other botanical or plant-based cleansers. These may include mild irritation, redness, or a temporary burning sensation, often caused by added fragrances or essential oils rather than cannabinoids themselves. Some individuals with sensitive or allergy-prone skin might experience dermatitis or rashes when using products that contain cannabis extracts. Conducting a patch test before regular use can help determine tolerance.

Allergic reactions to cannabis-infused skincare are rare but possible, especially in people with existing sensitivities to the cannabis plant. In most cases, irritation stems from other ingredients in the formula, such as artificial scents or harsh surfactants. Those with eczema, rosacea, or very reactive skin should consult a dermatologist before incorporating these products into their routine.

THC Concerns and Daily Use

When it comes to THC-infused cleansers, the likelihood of absorption into the bloodstream is extremely low. Cleansers are rinse-off products, meaning they have minimal skin contact time and are not formulated for transdermal delivery. This makes psychoactive or systemic effects highly unlikely.

Tips for Safe Daily Use

• Choose products labeled as gentle, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested.
• Look for a certificate of analysis (COA) verifying cannabinoid content and purity.
• Avoid products that claim to “treat” or “heal” medical conditions.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult healthcare professionals before use, as the long-term safety of topical cannabinoids has not been fully established.

Final Thoughts

A marijuana-infused face cleanser can safely fit into a daily skincare routine—provided it’s formulated with mild ingredients and used responsibly. Its “cannabis” label doesn’t necessarily make it better or more effective than a traditional cleanser, but it also doesn’t make it unsafe when chosen carefully.