CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED
Commonly Found In
Overview
CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for ANTI-SEBUM. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Synthetic CBD, Cannabidiol synthetic, Biosynthetic cannabidiol
Key Benefits
Studies suggest synthetic CBD shares the same anti-inflammatory properties as plant-derived CBD and may help soothe sensitive or irritated skin. Synthetic production ensures consistent purity and eliminates trace cannabinoid contamination.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Synthetic CBD has identical molecular structure to plant-derived form; no comedogenic potential expected.
Source: Limited formal comedogenicity data; same compound as plant-derived CBD
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating in topical formulations.
Source: Same irritancy profile as plant-derived cannabidiol
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.1β5%
Optimal
0.5β2%
Synthetic CBD offers consistent purity compared to plant-derived forms.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Synthetically produced CBD shares the same EU ban (Annex II/306) as plant-derived CBD per the regulation text. Verify current regulatory interpretation in target markets.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (Cannabidiol (CBD) as such, irrespective of its source, is not listed in the Schedules of the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. However, it shall be prohibited from use in cosmetic products (II/306), if it is prepared as an extract or tincture or resin of Cannabis in accordance with the Single Convention. Please note that national legislations on controlled substances may also apply.) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU regulation bans cannabidiol based on its connection to the cannabis narcotic convention, which may apply regardless of production method. The US and Japan permit use. Always verify current regulatory status, as this is an evolving area.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 9 ingredients in the ANTI-SEBUM category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Cannabidiol (CBD) naturally occurs in Cannabis sativa (hemp/marijuana) plants, where it is the second most abundant cannabinoid after THC. This entry refers specifically to the synthetically produced version.
π How It's Made
Synthetic CBD is produced through chemical synthesis in laboratories, typically starting from terpene precursors like limonene or olivetol. Unlike plant-derived CBD, it doesn't require cannabis cultivation.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for anti-sebum, antioxidant, skin conditioning, skin protecting.
π¬ Other Applications
Used in pharmaceutical products (Epidiolex for epilepsy), dietary supplements, food and beverages, pet care products, and wellness products claiming to reduce anxiety and inflammation.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ CBD was first isolated from cannabis in 1940 by American chemist Roger Adams, but its structure wasn't fully determined until 1963 by Raphael Mechoulam
- β’ Despite being derived from the same plant as THC, CBD is non-psychoactive β it doesn't produce a 'high'
- β’ The EU banned CBD in cosmetics in 2021 as part of its Novel Food regulations, while the US and Japan allow it under certain conditions
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
- β’ SCCS opinions on cannabidiol
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
CANNABIDIOL - DERIVED FROM EXTRACT OR TINCTURE OR RESIN OF CANNABIS
CANNABIS SATIVA FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT
CANNABIS SATIVA EXTRACT
MAGNESIUM ASCORBYLBORATE
THUJA OCCIDENTALIS LEAF EXTRACT
ZINC ASCORBATE HYDROXIDE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED under Cannabidiol (CBD) as such, irrespective of its source, is not listed in the Schedules of the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. However, it shall be prohibited from use in cosmetic products (II/306), if it is prepared as an extract or tincture or resin of Cannabis in accordance with the Single Convention. Please note that national legislations on controlled substances may also apply. due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED (Cannabidiol (CBD) as such, irrespective of its source, is not listed in the Schedules of the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. However, it shall be prohibited from use in cosmetic products (II/306), if it is prepared as an extract or tincture or resin of Cannabis in accordance with the Single Convention. Please note that national legislations on controlled substances may also apply.) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED used for in cosmetics?
CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED is primarily used for anti-sebum in cosmetic products. It also serves as antioxidant, skin conditioning. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED?
CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For anti-sebum, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.