(NewsNation) — An active ingredient in marijuana could help shield the skin from sun damage, according to new research in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 

Cannabidiol (CBD) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can reduce damage from ultraviolet-A radiation. 

This means CBD could also effectively reduce DNA mutations associated with ultraviolet A-induced skin cancer according to study authors. 

Participants in the study applied either CBD cream or the same cream without CBD twice a day and then had their skin exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Researchers found less cellular and DNA damage on the skin of those who had used the CBD cream according to the study. 

The researchers have not yet compared this to the effects of current ultraviolet protection, like sunscreen.