CBD | Why Women Are Leading the CBD Movement

CBD is everywhere these days.
In your friend’s wellness stash. In your coworker’s morning smoothie. Even in that fancy eye cream on your bathroom shelf.

But here’s something most people aren’t talking about…

Women are leading the charge.

That’s right — behind the booming CBD trend is a growing wave of female consumers driving demand, influencing product design, and reshaping how the world sees plant-based wellness.

Recent figures reveal that women not only use CBD more frequently than men, but they also turn to it for a wide range of benefits, from easing anxiety and stress to alleviating menstrual cramps and managing menopause symptoms.

In today’s fast-paced world, where holistic health and natural remedies are in high demand, women are increasingly turning to CBD as a trusted ally in their wellness routines. Whether it’s finding relief through targeted products like CBD skincare, addressing chronic stress, or managing unique hormonal challenges, these consumer behaviors are paving the way for innovation and growth in an industry projected to hit new heights by 2025. Join us as we explore the compelling data, emerging trends, and transformative impact of this female-led revolution in the CBD space.

The CBD Consumer Landscape

According to a 2024 Brightfield Group report, women now make up over 58% of CBD consumers in the U.S. That’s more than just a gender split—it’s a cultural shift.

Studies show that while approximately 41% of women report using CBD, only about 31% of men do. And guess what? The lion’s share of these users falls within the 18-to-49 age bracket. Amazing, right?

Even more interesting? A significant portion of these women are using CBD daily, not occasionally. We’re talking routine, not a once-in-a-while experiment.

Millions of people are now exploring CBD, and with over 6 million having tried it in markets like the UK, it’s clear that CBD isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle shift.

Curious what they’re using it for? We’ll get to that in a second.

Women aged 25–40 represent the fastest-growing segment of CBD buyers, especially in wellness-driven categories like stress relief, sleep, and menstrual care.

But what’s behind this shift? Why are so many women turning to CBD now?

Let’s break it down…

Why Women Are Turning to CBD

Let’s be honest…

Women are dealing with a lot — career pressure, emotional labor, fluctuating hormones, and society’s nonstop obsession with balance and beauty.

So when something promises calm, clarity, and fewer cramps?

You better believe we’re paying attention.

1. CBD for Anxiety & Depression

Between work deadlines, social overload, and daily mental gymnastics, stress is basically baked into modern life. CBD’s reputation as a natural calming agent is one of the biggest reasons women are embracing it.

Studies suggest CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to help regulate mood and anxiety. No prescription. No fog. Just calm

But wait — it’s not just about stress…

2. Sleep Support

Women are more likely than men to report insomnia and poor-quality sleep, especially around hormonal cycles or during perimenopause. CBD products like oils, gummies, and even bedtime teas have become go-to options for those seeking deeper rest.

3. Pain & Hormonal Relief

From period cramps to chronic pain and even menopause symptoms, many women are exploring CBD as a gentler alternative to pharmaceuticals.

Menstrual cramps can be debilitating, and traditional pain relievers sometimes just don’t cut it. That’s where CBD steps in. An increasing number of women are reporting that CBD for menstrual cramps offers a natural alternative to ease discomfort, allowing them to go about their day without the dreaded pain holding them back.

Some products are designed specifically for women — targeting PMS, endometriosis, and hot flashes — giving them a sense of control and relief without side effects.

And the best part? It’s not just about feeling better…

4. Wellness with a Side of Empowerment

CBD brands targeting women are changing the wellness game — using language around self-care, empowerment, and routine rather than illness or stigma.

The branding is clean. The packaging is chic. The message is: “You deserve to feel good — on your terms.”

And guess what? That message is landing.

5. CBD for Menopause Symptoms

Now here’s the kicker:

Menopause brings its own set of challenges—hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, to name a few. Women are turning to CBD for menopause symptoms as a way to manage these unpredictable changes in their bodies. This natural remedy is gaining traction for its potential to promote balance during a time of transition, offering relief when it’s needed most.

6. CBD Skincare for Women

The rise of CBD skincare for women is a testament to the growing demand for products that harness CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers. From serums to moisturizers and CBD lip balms, these products are helping women achieve healthy, glowing skin while also soothing irritation and redness.

How CBD Brands Are Winning Women Over

Here’s the thing:

CBD isn’t just a wellness trend anymore — it’s a lifestyle. And brands that are thriving? They’ve figured out how to speak to women in a way that feels real, empowering, and aesthetically irresistible.

Let’s break down the blueprint:

1. Targeted, Relatable Messaging

Forget the clinical, bro-science vibe. Leading CBD brands now focus on:

• Calm, clarity, control
• “You time,” not just treatment
• Ritual over remedy

Think words like balance, glow, soothe, unwind.
They’re not selling medicine — they’re selling peace of mind wrapped in beautiful packaging.

2. Design That Feels Like Skincare, Not Snake Oil

CBD packaging used to scream “alternative health.” Now? It whispers “premium self-care.”

Clean fonts. Soft neutrals. Instagrammable everything.

Brands like Equilibria, Feals, and House of Wise have mastered the art of:

• Minimalist design
• Luxury skincare vibes
• Gender-inclusive but female-forward tones

3. Influencers & Community Building

Women trust other women — especially those who’ve “been there.” CBD brands are:

• Partnering with female influencers and wellness coaches
• Hosting IG Lives, TikTok AMAs, and educational reels
• Creating online communities where users can share stories and support

It’s less “buy this product” and more “join our movement.”

4. Personalized Products = Brand Loyalty

Successful brands aren’t just offering CBD — they’re offering solutions:

• “CBD for stress, sleep, cramps, or clarity?”
• Quiz-based personalization (“Tell us about your cycle/stress/sleep habits”)
• Subscription boxes tailored to women’s needs

When it feels like the brand gets you, you’re more likely to stick around.

5. Female Founders Leading the Way

Many of the fastest-growing CBD companies were founded by women, for women.
This adds an authenticity and relatability you just can’t fake — and consumers feel that.

From branding to mission to community-building, the focus is simple:
Make women feel seen, supported, and empowered.

The Science & Health Side of the Story

CBD isn’t just a buzzword anymore.
It’s the subject of serious research, clinical trials, and policy debates — especially when it comes to its effects on stress, pain, and hormonal health.

But here’s the twist…

While science is catching up, women’s health is still majorly under-researched in general — which makes the demand for answers even stronger in this space.

Let’s break down what we know (and what we don’t just yet):

CBD & Anxiety Relief

One of the most studied uses of CBD is for anxiety — something women are statistically more likely to experience.

• Small-scale human studies have shown that CBD may reduce social anxiety symptoms and help regulate cortisol (your body’s stress hormone).
• It’s believed to work by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain — similar to how some antidepressants function, but without the side effects.

But what about monthly mood swings and pain?

CBD & PMS / Menstrual Cramps

Anecdotally, many women report relief from cramping, bloating, and irritability when using CBD oils or balms during their cycle.

While clinical research is still emerging, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties are promising — and companies like Juna, Lavinia, and Equilibria are betting big on the trend.

CBD & Menopause

Hot flashes? Mood swings? Sleep disruption?
Yep — CBD is being explored as a non-hormonal support option during menopause.

Some women claim it helps with:

• Regulating mood
• Reducing hot flash intensity
• Improving sleep

But full-scale clinical evidence? Still in the works.

So, is it all just hype? Or is the FDA and FSA backing any of this?

What the FDA/FSA Is Saying (and Not Saying)

• CBD is not yet FDA-approved for most wellness uses, aside from Epidiolex (a prescription CBD used for rare epilepsy).
• The FDA continues to warn companies against making unverified medical claims — especially those targeting women’s reproductive health.
• The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) is set to approve the first officially authorized CBD products by Spring 2025, shaping future market trends.

That said, ongoing studies funded by the NIH and academic institutions are digging into CBD’s role in:

• Chronic pain
• Hormonal health
• Mental well-being

In short: we’re still early, but the momentum is real.

The Critics, the Controversy & the Marketing Grey Zone

Let’s keep it real…
Not everyone is buying into the CBD hype — and for good reason.

As women become the largest demographic in the CBD market, critics are starting to ask some tough (and fair) questions:
Are these products really helping — or just cleverly marketed wellness fluff?

Let’s unpack the concerns.

Overpromising & Under-Evidencing

One of the biggest criticisms?
Many CBD brands tiptoe dangerously close to unsubstantiated medical claims — especially when targeting women’s pain, PMS, or mental health.

“Relieves cramps instantly!”
“Balances hormones!”
“Cures your stress!”

The FDA has cracked down on several companies for these exact claims. Why? Because while there is promising research, there’s not yet enough to make sweeping medical promises.

Wellness Washing” Is a Thing

CBD is often packaged with vague wellness buzzwords:

• “Calming”
• “Balancing”
• “Mood-supporting”

The issue? These terms are intentionally unregulated and emotionally charged — which can mislead consumers, especially those dealing with real health conditions.

That doesn’t mean the products don’t work — it just means the industry needs to do better at earning trust.

Quality Control Concerns

Not all CBD is created equal.

Some brands use low-quality hemp, questionable extraction methods, or contain less CBD than the label claims (yikes).
Others may include trace levels of THC, which can be problematic for certain users.

Women looking for relief or balance deserve products that are:

• Third-party tested
• Transparently labeled
• Consistently dosed

Accessibility & Cost

There’s also the question of equity.

Premium CBD products marketed to women — especially those wrapped in influencer luxury — often come with luxury prices.
That means many people who might genuinely benefit from CBD can’t afford to try it, or worse, get duped by cheaper, less reliable alternatives.

So… Is It All a Scam?

Not at all.

CBD can absolutely be helpful.
But like anything in the wellness world, it walks a fine line between solution and sensation.

The takeaway?
Consumers — especially women — are savvy, but still vulnerable to marketing that sells “feel-good” over facts.
The brands that will win long-term? The ones that combine science, transparency, and empathy.

Emerging CBD Wellness Trends for 2025

Hold on—get ready for the future of CBD!
As we zoom through 2025, the CBD industry is not just growing—it’s reinventing itself. Projections indicate that the UK market alone is on track to hit £1 billion, with the global market poised to surpass $20 billion. But what’s really fueling this meteoric rise? Let’s dive into the innovative trends setting the stage for tomorrow’s wellness landscape.

Innovative Product Formats

But wait—there’s even more!

• Water-Soluble CBD: Designed for faster absorption, these formulations are perfect for those who demand quick, effective relief.
• Transdermal Patches & Sprays: Convenience meets efficiency as these mess-free alternatives make dosing a breeze.
• Edibles & Beverages: Imagine enjoying your daily dose through tasty treats and drinks—with reliable, consistent potency every time.

Personalized Wellness Solutions

Now, picture this:
Brands are shifting from one-size-fits-all to tailored solutions. By honing in on individual needs, companies are crafting products that don’t just offer generic benefits but are fine-tuned to manage specific health challenges—whether it’s stress relief or targeted skincare. This personalization is a game changer in the CBD wellness trends 2025 arena.

Holistic Health Integration

CBD is evolving beyond a standalone supplement. It’s increasingly being woven into broader wellness routines, where it’s paired with mindfulness practices, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise. This integration transforms CBD into a holistic ally in achieving overall well-being, making it indispensable for modern lifestyles.

Key Takeaway:
These emerging trends underscore a powerful message: innovation, personalization, and holistic health are driving CBD’s future. The brands that adapt quickly to these shifts will lead the market as the industry continues its rapid evolution.

The Wrap-Up: CBD is More Than a Trend — It’s a Movement

So, what did we learn?

CBD isn’t just a passing fad.
It’s becoming a cultural shift — and women are right at the center of it.

They’re turning to CBD not out of hype, but out of a real need:
✨ To feel calm in the chaos.
✨ To manage cycles, moods, and pain naturally.
✨ To reclaim wellness — without side effects or stigma.

But here’s the thing…

Not all CBD is created equal.

There’s a lot of noise out there. A lot of pretty labels. A lot of promises.

And that’s exactly why working with people who understand the terrain — from scientists and healthcare professionals to certified CBD educators and trusted wellness curators — is essential.

Why It Matters:

• They know which products are third-party tested and actually do what they claim.
• They can help you navigate dosing, product types, and safe usage.
• They’re the bridge between curiosity and confidence.

So before you hit “add to cart” on that pastel bottle of CBD bliss…

Ask yourself:
Is this product vetted by someone who understands the science and the space?

Because when it comes to your body, your mind, and your money — you deserve better than a guess.