Cannabis and the skin

Abstract

The public and health care providers are increasingly curious about the potential medical benefits of Cannabis. In vitro and in vivo studies of Cannabis have suggested it has favorable effects on regulating pain, pruritus, and inflammation, making it a potentially attractive therapeutic agent for many dermatologic conditions. The body of literature reporting on the role of cannabinoids in dermatology is in its infancy but growing. We review the current research, possible cutaneous adverse effects, and future directions for cannabinoids and their use in skin cancer, acne, psoriasis, pruritus, dermatitis, scleroderma, dermatomyositis, cutaneous lupus erythematous, epidermolysis bullosa, pain, and wound healing.