Does CBD make your eyes red?
No, CBD does not make your eyes red. Unlike THC, CBD does not dilate blood vessels in the eyes or lower intraocular pressure, which are the primary causes of redness associated with cannabis use. If redness occurs after using CBD, it’s likely due to other factors like product contamination, eye strain, or irritation from delivery methods such as vaping.
This article explains the science behind red eyes, the difference between THC and CBD, and how to choose safe, legal CBD in the UK.
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What Causes Red Eyes When Using THC?
Red eyes are one of the hallmark signs of THC consumption. The effect is caused by THC’s interaction with CB1 receptors in the body, including those in the eyes. When THC binds to these receptors, it lowers blood pressure, which leads to the dilation of blood vessels and capillaries in the eyes. This increased blood flow causes the redness many people associate with cannabis use.
Research confirms that this reaction is linked to the vasodilatory effects of THC, not the act of smoking itself. A study published in Psychiatry Research found that the reddening of the conjunctivae was a result of ocular vasodilation caused by cannabinoids [1].
Does CBD Have the Same Effect as THC?
CBD does not cause red eyes in the same way as THC, nor does it get you ‘high’. It interacts very differently with the endocannabinoid system and does not bind directly to CB1 receptors. Because of this, CBD has little to no impact on blood pressure or ocular blood vessel dilation.
Studies indicate that CBD does not significantly affect intraocular pressure or cause vasodilation in the eyes [3]. If someone experiences red eyes after using CBD, it is unlikely to be due to the CBD itself. Other possible reasons include trace THC in unregulated products, dry eyes, or irritation from other sources such as screen time or environmental factors.
How you take CBD can also play a role. For example, inhaling CBD through vaping might cause eye irritation, but this is more likely due to the vapor or added ingredients rather than the CBD. [2]
Can CBD Products Cause Red Eyes Indirectly?
In most cases, red eyes after using CBD are unrelated to the compound itself. Other factors may be at play, especially with lower quality or unregulated products.
These may include:
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Allergic reactions to other ingredients in the product
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Eye strain from prolonged screen use
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Dehydration
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Lack of sleep
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Dry air or environmental irritants
Unregulated CBD products can sometimes contain illegal levels of THC, which may trigger the same red-eye response seen with cannabis. This is why it's crucial to use only lab-tested CBD from reliable sources.
Tips to Avoid or Manage Eye Redness
If you're prone to red eyes and use CBD regularly, here are some steps you can take:
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Stay hydrated throughout the day
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Take regular breaks from screens
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Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops
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Choose oral CBD products such as CBD oils, CBD gummies or capsules over vaping
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Avoid using products with unclear or incomplete ingredient lists
If redness persists or worsens, consult with a GP or optician to rule out any underlying conditions.
How to Choose Trusted CBD in the UK
Orange County CBD is one of the UK’s most established CBD brands, known for transparent lab testing, high product quality, and full compliance with UK regulations.
Whether you're new to CBD or looking to avoid side effects like red eyes, Orange County CBD offers peace of mind with trusted, consistent CBD products.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, pain relief, or just a sweet treat, try our grab bag today!
Research
[1] – Study: Associations between cannabis use and retinal vessel diameter in young adults
Source: ScienceDirect
Summary: A study published in Psychiatry Research observed that cannabis administration leads to reddening of the conjunctivae, indicative of vasodilation.
[2] – Page: It’s Not the Smoke from a Joint That Makes Your Eyes Red
Source: McGill University
Summary: THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the body, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. This drop causes blood vessels and capillaries to dilate. When ocular capillaries expand, more blood flows through them, resulting in the characteristic redness of the eyes.
[3] – Page: Endocannabinoids in the Retina: From Marijuana to Neuroprotection
Source: PMC
Summary: Research in Neurochemical Research noted that smoking marijuana induces corneal vasodilation and reduces intraocular pressure, contributing to red eyes.