From rejuvenating spa facials and soothing foot soaks to revitalizing body treatments and relaxing massages—this is only the beginning of your wellness journey.
The Farm Bill of 2018 sparked a revolution. By legalizing the cultivation and sale of hemp, it ignited a nationwide surge in the popularity of CBD, or cannabidiol, derived from the hemp plant. Spas, known for their focus on relaxation and overall wellbeing, quickly became pioneers in adopting CBD into their offerings. According to a recent study by the International Spa Association (ISPA), a remarkable 74 percent of spas are utilizing CBD or are planning to integrate it into their treatments. Defined as any Cannabis sativa L. plant containing 0.3% or less of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive element of marijuana, hemp and CBD are non-intoxicating. Instead, they have been shown to promote relaxation and provide significant anti-inflammatory relief for various aches, pains, and skin conditions. With ongoing research into the advantages of hemp and an upcoming Farm Bill on the horizon, we can expect more transformative changes soon.
Understanding the Impact of Cannabinoids on Wellness
All plants harbor potent natural compounds that, when effectively extracted, can offer remarkable benefits to the body and mind. The cannabis plant is no exception. CBD and THC are the most recognized natural compounds from this plant, referred to as cannabinoids due to their unique interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This intricate system is responsible for regulating the release of neurotransmitters—chemical messengers that influence stress levels, pain perception, mood, memory, inflammation, and even immune responses. With receptors distributed throughout the body, including the skin, cannabinoids act like a key that fits into these locks, prompting a physiological response that can greatly enhance wellbeing.
Research indicates that 51 percent of individuals using CBD do so primarily for anxiety relief, but the benefits extend far beyond just mental health. Individuals who lead active lifestyles, including fitness enthusiasts and those suffering from arthritis, are increasingly seeking CBD treatments in spas to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in their muscles and joints. “CBD provides immediate relief for sore muscles, with lasting effects that promote recovery from mild injuries,” explains Maureen Vipperman, spa director at The Rittenhouse Spa in Philadelphia. The spa offers a signature treatment called The Rittenhouse Elevated Experience, which features a CBD foot soak and sound bath, followed by a comprehensive application of CBD-infused products. “Our guests with arthritis often find significant relief from pain through our CBD balms,” she adds.
While substantial research supports CBD’s well-known anti-inflammatory properties, the exploration of additional cannabinoids—beyond just CBD and THC—is gaining momentum. These emerging cannabinoids represent the future potential of hemp. “CBD is merely one of over 100 cannabinoids present in cannabis plants. We’ve identified more than 118 so far,” notes Antonia Schreiber, founder of The Windham Spa in New York, which cultivates its own cannabis for spa use. Many of these lesser-known cannabinoids are now being formulated into innovative products, gaining attention on packaging and in marketing.
For instance, CBC (cannabichromene) has shown promise in preliminary studies for reducing inflammation and pain. CBN (cannabinol) appears to be effective for pain relief as well, but it also shines as a potent sedative. “CBN is remarkable for improving sleep quality,” states Hugh Huffaker, founder and CEO of Cause+Medic, which produces a line of CBD body products used in luxury spas such as Canyon Ranch and The Ritz-Carlton. Huffaker’s CBD Body Butter was recognized as one of the top CBD products of 2022 by Organic Spa Magazine. Meanwhile, another rising star, CBG (cannabigerol), is noted for its benefits in managing inflammation, pain, and nausea.
In addition to cannabinoids, experts are also highlighting the significance of other compounds found in the cannabis plant. These plant-derived chemicals, including terpenes and flavonoids, are present in all plants, but recent studies suggest that their combined effects, alongside cannabinoids, can enhance therapeutic benefits. This synergistic phenomenon is often referred to as the “entourage effect.” As Schreiber mentions, this approach represents “the most therapeutic way to utilize the cannabis plant.” While many CBD products that flooded the market post-2018 Farm Bill were isolates (containing only CBD), the trend is shifting towards broad-spectrum and full-spectrum formulations. Broad-spectrum products retain all cannabinoids except for THC, while full-spectrum products include all cannabinoids and beneficial plant compounds like terpenes.
“Combining full-spectrum cannabinoids with other organic active ingredients, such as peptides, is the future of skincare.”
– Hugh Huffaker, founder and CEO of Cause+Medic
Discover the Numerous Skin Benefits of CBD
The skin is the body’s largest organ and is rich in endocannabinoid receptors, which bind with CBD to alleviate pain and inflammation. This interaction is why studies suggest that the topical application of CBD may be beneficial for inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Moreover, CBD exhibits antimicrobial properties, making it effective for treating acne when applied directly to the skin. “Research shows that CBD can assist in addressing a variety of skin conditions,” states Allison Bevan, spa director at The Spa at The Joule in Dallas, Texas, which offers treatments featuring CBD. “CBD has also demonstrated an ability to regulate oil production in both skin and hair by inhibiting lipid production in skin cells, thus preventing acne.”
The endocannabinoid system also plays a crucial role in maintaining skin homeostasis and barrier function. This barrier is essential for protecting the skin from harmful environmental toxins and pathogens while locking in moisture. When applied topically in an appropriate formulation, CBD is well absorbed into skin cells, contributing to hydration and skin healing. As part of the entourage effect, full-spectrum CBD synergizes with other cannabinoids and essential nutrients, including fatty acids, antioxidants, amino acids, flavonoids, minerals, and vitamins such as B, C, and E, working together to repair the skin while keeping it soft, smooth, and glowing. “We’ve discovered that an effective delivery system is key for maximum impact,” explains Margaret Lora, spa director at Mohonk Mountain House, which incorporated CBD into its treatments last year. “Water-soluble CBD is essential for enhancing its bioavailability; since CBD is inherently fat-soluble, it poses challenges for the body’s utilization.”
Huffaker posits that the entourage effect will significantly influence the growth of CBD skincare in the future. “Combining full-spectrum cannabinoids with other organic active ingredients, like peptides, is the future of skincare,” Huffaker explains. For instance, he has found that CBG is particularly effective in addressing under-eye puffiness. After four years of research, Huffaker is poised to launch a facial skincare line utilizing water-soluble CBD by the end of this year or early next. He is not alone in this endeavor; market forecasts indicate that the CBD skincare industry is projected to soar to $1.7 billion by 2028, a substantial increase from $414 million this year.
One factor contributing to this growth is the increasing investment in CBD skincare products by golf resorts and spas, which are also incorporating CBD drops for oral consumption. Given the known anti-inflammatory benefits, CBD products offer relief for muscle soreness and sunburn, particularly appealing to golfers. Best Ball CBD, founded by a husband-and-wife golf pro and physical therapist duo, offers products like CBD Swing Cream specifically designed for golfers. Medterra is another golf-centric CBD brand, endorsed by PGA players, with its own director of golf. The PGA National Resort and Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, has embraced CBD through the Golfer’s CBD Massage, featuring a CBD-infused oil, acupressure techniques, and stretching to enhance hip and shoulder flexibility and improve golf swings.
Exploring CBD Beyond Topical Applications
While many products on the market focus on the topical application of CBD, spa experts are now exploring the addition of edible options to enhance the spa experience. Many industry insiders believe that integrating edibles into spa treatments signifies the future direction of the spa industry. For instance, Huffaker’s Cause+Medic offers guests a CBD ginger shot before their treatments. The Rittenhouse Spa in Philadelphia has begun incorporating CBD gummies into its post-treatment rituals, ensuring guests leave feeling relaxed. The Windham Spa, which labels itself as offering a “seed to spa CBD experience,” not only cultivates its own hemp for its treatments but also offers “The Entourage” experience, including a tasting of CBD-infused beverages such as sparkling water, CBD chocolate, and CBD gummies, as shared by Schreiber, who is continually seeking innovative ways to enhance cannabinoid benefits for spa-goers.
CBD-infused drinks, including those aimed at improving sports endurance, are also gaining traction. Stephen Letourneau, founder of Stephen James Coffee, which specializes in CBD coffee, anticipates placing his products in hotels and resorts by year-end, with further expansion planned for 2024. As edibles become more mainstream, Letourneau emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of these products and their cultivation methods. “We consistently visit the farms we collaborate with,” Letourneau notes, explaining that the cannabis plant is a super absorber, meaning it readily takes in whatever is present in the surrounding soil and air. This includes essential nutrients as well as potential toxins, which may be transferred to consumers through edibles or topical applications. “It’s crucial,” he insists, “to be aware of what’s nearby the farm, the quality of water run-off, and whether pesticides are being used.” Additionally, requesting a Certificate of Analysis (COA)—which verifies the quality and safety of ingredients—can help ensure that you are purchasing reliable products.
Breanna Neff, a certified food scientist based in Brooklyn, recently launched her functional CBD and cannabis drink mix company, brelixi. Her products incorporate not only cannabinoids but also electrolytes for hydration, adaptogens for stress relief, antioxidants for immune support, and nootropics—ingredients that can enhance cognitive performance and mood. (Caffeine is a well-known example of a nootropic.) Neff is beginning to market her fast-acting, full-spectrum CBD-infused drink mix sticks, available in flavors like elderberry hibiscus lemonade, to spas nationwide. “My products utilize cutting-edge nanotechnology, allowing for immediate sublingual absorption in the mouth and swift effects through the digestive system, bypassing liver metabolism,” Neff explains. “The speed of nano cannabis is astonishing; users can feel its benefits in as little as five to ten minutes, which is particularly advantageous for those experiencing anxiety or stress.” She adds, “As a food scientist, witnessing the innovations in this field is truly exciting.” Letourneau predicts that beverages will play a pivotal role in the expansion of CBD offerings in spas, resorts, and wellness retreats across the nation, introducing options like CBD coffee, tea, and CBD mocktails for micro moments of wellness.
With the anticipated changes following the next Farm Bill, expect more streamlined regulations alongside the emergence of refined and potent CBD products. “Among all the spa trends I’ve observed, I would rank CBD at the very top for its acceptance and effectiveness,” asserts John Morris, general manager of Sundara Inn & Spa in Wisconsin Dells, which integrated CBD into its massages, body treatments, and facials shortly after the initial Farm Bill was enacted. “CBD offers calming relief for our guests, and this trend shows no signs of diminishing.”
Anticipating the Changes with the Upcoming Farm Bill of 2023
A new Farm Bill, expected to be released by the end of this year, is poised to redefine how we understand, produce, and utilize CBD, according to Jonathan Miller, general counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, the advocacy organization for the hemp industry. Despite the legalization of hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill, consumer confusion surrounding hemp and its safety remains prevalent. One contributing factor is the emergence of other delta products that may induce intoxication. For example, Delta-8 THC is a less potent form of THC derived from hemp and is not regulated under the 2018 Farm Bill.
Similarly, Delta-10 THC is another hemp-derived cannabinoid that can create a “high” sensation. These cannabinoids were not distinctively outlined in the initial Farm Bill but are now present in products on the market. “These need to be strictly regulated for consumer safety,” Miller emphasizes. Until the Farm Bill is finalized, ensure you obtain quality products free from these unregulated cannabinoids by reviewing the product’s Certificate of Analysis (COA)—a laboratory verification of ingredient safety. Miller also advises looking for the U.S. Hemp Authority seal on products.
