As marijuana-infused skincare products continue to grow in popularity, one of the newest additions to the beauty market is marijuana SPF — sunscreens that incorporate cannabinoids such as CBD or hemp-derived extracts. These products claim to combine the UV protection of traditional sunscreens with the soothing, antioxidant properties of cannabis. But as with any skincare innovation, consumers are asking: are there any potential negative side effects?
Understanding What’s in Marijuana SPF
Marijuana SPF products typically contain cannabidiol (CBD) or hemp seed oil, both derived from the cannabis plant. CBD is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce redness, calm irritation, and protect against environmental stressors. Hemp seed oil, while non-psychoactive, is rich in essential fatty acids that help support the skin barrier.
However, marijuana SPF formulas also rely on traditional active ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or avobenzone for sun protection. These are the same UV filters used in conventional sunscreens — meaning most potential side effects are related more to the formulation itself than the cannabis extract it contains.
Potential Skin Sensitivities
For consumers with sensitive or allergy-prone skin, marijuana SPF may trigger mild irritation or redness, particularly if the formula includes added fragrance, alcohol, or essential oils. While CBD and hemp seed oil are generally well tolerated, they are not entirely free of risk. Some users may experience minor allergic reactions, including itching or contact dermatitis, especially when trying a new product for the first time.
Dermatologists often recommend patch testing before applying marijuana SPF to the entire face or body. This helps identify any sensitivity to either the cannabis extract or the sunscreen base ingredients.
Quality and Purity Concerns
One of the more significant concerns around marijuana SPF products lies in quality control. Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not yet fully regulate over-the-counter cannabis skincare products, there’s room for inconsistencies in ingredient sourcing, purity, and cannabinoid concentration. Poorly tested or mislabeled products may contain contaminants such as residual solvents, pesticides, or heavy metals.
To minimize risk, consumers should look for brands that provide third-party lab results, certificates of analysis (COAs), and transparent ingredient listings. Choosing a reputable brand ensures product safety and reliability.
Interaction with Other Skincare Products
Some users may notice that marijuana SPF behaves differently when layered with other skincare items. Heavy oils or occlusive creams applied beneath the sunscreen can dilute its SPF effectiveness, while certain active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids might increase skin sensitivity under UV exposure.
As a rule of thumb, marijuana SPF should be applied last in a morning skincare routine and reapplied every two hours when outdoors.
The Takeaway
When formulated correctly, marijuana SPF products are generally safe and well tolerated by most skin types. The potential side effects — irritation, allergic reactions, or reduced SPF performance — are usually linked to poor formulation or misuse rather than the cannabis extract itself. Consumers who prioritize high-quality ingredients, patch test before use, and follow proper sun protection practices are unlikely to encounter major issues.