It seems Cannabidiol, otherwise known as CBD, is popping up everywhere... and for good reason. Its therapeutic value and anti-inflammatory properties seem to be benefiting all who use it. But did you know there’s a vast array of other products available than just CBD oil?
If you’re one to suffer from unwanted aches and pains and you’re looking for some sort of relief, a therapeutic topical may actually help target those painful areas. According to research, it seems that when CBD is applied on the skin, it targets these troublesome symptoms in a completely unique way. But how do you know which CBD topical is best? In this article we’ll explore what CBD topicals are, how they work in our body, plus we’ll breakdown the differences between the most popular CBD topicals on the market today.
What are CBD topicals?
First let’s discuss what CBD is…
As mentioned before, CBD is short for Cannabidiol, a natural phytocannabinoid that occurs in the cannabis plant. This includes both marijuana and hemp. Many people often worry about its origin because it is present in marijuana. However, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the phytocannabinoid known for its psychoactive effects, CBD does not produce a high. In fact, studies show that CBD can actually prevent the high of THC when it’s taken in higher amounts.
CBD is primarily studied and known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. And it’s these properties that have everyone raving about all things CBD. Now let’s look at what topicals are…
According to the medical dictionary, “topical” means applying an anti-infective agent to a certain area of the skin. In other words, the phrase “CBD topicals” is just an umbrella term for multiple CBD products that are designed for the skin.
How do CBD topicals work?
Believe it or not, the skin is the largest organ of the body, and its main function is to protect us from a number of factors:
- Chemicals
- Bacteria
- Temperature
- And a number of other environmental toxins
Additionally, our skin is very porous and therefore it’s constantly absorbing more than we think. This includes the substances we put on our body. According to one study, researchers found that the skin absorbed 64% of the chemicals found in water. This confirms that applying CBD topicals directly to the skin may help address a number of unwanted symptoms.
In fact, research shows that when topical medications are applied to the skin, the mucous membranes allow the medication to enter straight into the body. Topical medications are often used for specific areas of the body and usually target inflammation and pain. However, certain topical medications can affect the whole body once they’re absorbed through our skin. They can also be used to protect or nourish the skin. This includes CBD topicals.
CBD topicals usually work by interacting with our Endocannabinoid System (ECS) –– a neuromodulatory system that plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining human health.
What makes this recently discovered system so unique is that it’s made up of endogenous cannabinoid receptors. These receptor cells naturally occur throughout the human body and are responsible for regulating our hormones, perception of pain, skin health, immune response, appetite, mood, cognitive function, sleep, etc. So where does CBD come in?
Because our skin is so porous, when we apply CBD onto troublesome areas, it gets absorbed through the mucous membranes of our skin. This then allows the properties of CBD to enter the body and reduce unwanted inflammation. This phenomenal process takes place anytime you apply CBD topicals to the skin.
So does this mean there’s really no difference between CBD lotion, cream, balms, salves, ointments, and other CBD topicals?
CBD cream vs. CBD lotion vs. CBD balm vs. CBD salves vs. CBD ointments
The best way to approach these comparisons is by breaking each CBD product down.
CBD cream
Creams usually contain a mixture of water and fat. This allows the cream to easily spread on the body. However, because water and fat don’t usually combine easily, an emulsifying agent must be added to keep these two ingredients together. CBD creams can either be created using more water than oil, or vice-versa: more oil than water.
CBD creams that contain more water than fat are considered a lighter cream. They are more easily absorbent and moisturizing for the skin. On the other hand, CBD creams that contain more fat than water are considered to be richer creams. They contain a protective layer that helps the skin stay moisturized. Fatty, richer creams are said to be better for dry skin conditions like eczema.
CBD lotion
CBD lotion is very similar to CBD creams, in that they contain water, fat, and an emulsifying agent. The difference here is that lotions are usually much lighter. Research shows that products with “more liquid emulsion on a water basis are called lotions or milk.” Meaning, CBD lotions that contain more water than fat cause them to be considered a lighter moisturizer.
CBD balm
CBD balms are usually much thicker in their consistency. They are also much harder as well. This is because CBD balms tend to have higher ratios of wax. For the most part, CBD balms will use beeswax because it’s a 100% natural wax.
CBD balms contain a protective layer that keeps the skin moisturized for a longer period of time. The only downside to CBD balms is that due to their thickness, they will need to be rubbed into the skin in order for them to be properly absorbed.
CBD salve
CBD salves aren’t much different than CBD balms. The biggest difference that consumers see is that the consistency of CBD salves are usually not as thick or hard as balms.
CBD salves usually don’t have as high of a ratio to beeswax as balms do. Therefore CBD salves spread much easier on the skin than balms. CBD salves usually come in small jars and contain a somewhat semi-solid consistency. Like CBD balms, CBD salves will need to be rubbed into the skin in order for it to be absorbed.
CBD ointment
Ointments contain a mixture of fat, oil or wax, or even a blend of all three. They’re usually fattier and have a semi-solid, oily or greasy consistency. Most ointments are designed for medical use and often contain antiseptic and healing properties. CBD ointments are no different.
Because CBD is considered an individualized medicinal herb, it is often added to ointments for external use. CBD ointments can also be made into pastes if a large amount of powder is added. CBD ointments are softer than balms, but they may feel similar to CBD salves. The only difference of CBD ointments is that they contain more fat and often leave users feeling a bit oily or greasy. They should also be rubbed into the skin in order for it to be absorbed. They’re still soothing and moisturizing nonetheless.
What is the best CBD topical?
While all CBD topicals have their pros and cons, the most popular CBD topical is CBD cream. This is because CBD creams can be made with variations of fat and water, making them thicker or lighter depending on what you are in need of. They’re also much more nourishing, moisturizing, and can easily be spread on the skin.
For the most part, CBD creams take effect faster than other CBD topicals. The effects of all CBD topicals usually last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on how much CBD the topical contains, how much you use, what you’re treating, and where it’s applied on the body. Now let's discuss the benefits of CBD topicals.
The benefits of CBD cream, lotion, and balm
Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of scientific data involving the benefits of CBD cream. However, there are a few studies that do stand out. Below is a list of some of the most promising studies:
CBD cream for pain and inflammation (arthritis)
Pain and inflammation is usually the first sign the body gives that something isn’t right. According to one study, researchers actually used a gel-like CBD topical on arthritic rats for 4 days. Not only did it help reduce the arthritic pain, but it also reduced the inflammation and swelling. The study also showed that no negative side effects were recorded.
CBD cream for acne
Acne is a skin condition that affects over 9% of the world’s population. However, studies show that CBD helps reduce the overproduction of sebum, which could help acne prone skin. It was also discovered that it reduces inflammation in these oil-producing glands as well. While this study doesn’t mention the use of a CBD topical, the American Academy of Dermatology announced in a meeting that they would look into using more CBD topical creams and lotions for skin conditions in the future.
CBD cream for psoriasis
Scientists theorized that because the cannabinoid receptors found in the skin could help reduce excessive skin cell growth, CBD could potentially help put those over-producing receptors to a halt. While this study was done on only cadaver skin and not living skin, researchers still believe that CBD could help reduce the unwanted symptoms of psoriasis.
CBD cream for itchy skin
According to a 2005 study, scientists found that 81% of patients who applied CBD cream to their itchy skin found relief. Researchers believe CBD contains a soothing property that signals the brain and nerve endings to stop itching.
More studies are definitely needed, but what research has uncovered so far is that transdermal CBD is a lot more effective than what meets the eye. Still, consumers need to familiarize themselves with the safety profile of CBD topicals.
Are CBD creams and lotions safe?
Every person is different, and they may react differently to certain products. This includes CBD oil and CBD creams, lotions, and balms. Thankfully, in the studies mentioned above, no side effects were recorded or mentioned. And according to the Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research journal, CBD has a good safety profile.
Still, it’s important to note that there have been some side effects reported from CBD. These side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Fatigue
- Sleepiness
- Possible drug interactions
While it’s possible that an individual person could have an allergic reaction to topical CBD, the side effects mentioned above were only reported from people who ingested CBD, not from those who applied topical CBD.
If, for any reason, you have any unwanted symptoms like itchy skin, swelling, or strange peeling after applying topical CBD, be sure to thoroughly clean the affected area and discontinue the product.
In rare cases like these, it may not be the CBD causing the problem, but the other ingredients in the topical product. Be sure to do your research before purchasing CBD creams, lotions, and balms. Just because it contains CBD, doesn’t mean it will be a well-formulated safe product to apply to your skin. Unfortunately, some companies have seen the popularity in CBD and only want to capitalize on its sales. This is why it’s imperative to seek out reputable CBD companies that produce safe, high quality CBD creams, lotions, and balms.
Where to buy CBD cream, lotion and balms?
If you’re looking for the best CBD cream for sale, your best bit is to shop online. Reputable CBD companies take the time to place their third-party test results on their website. They will offer high quality customer care and transparency in all they do regarding the formulation and manufacture of their CBD products. If you come across a questionable CBD brand or CBD salve, thoroughly look at their ingredients and research the reviews from people who have tried the product. The more research you do, the better clarity you’ll have in finding the best CBD lotions, balms, and creams that can better address your symptoms.
Remember to consult with a doctor before applying CBD topicals on your body, especially if you currently have a skin disease or condition. CBD may interact with prescription drugs, so keep your doctor in the loop anytime you add a new product to your regimen. This may help them determine how much CBD cream you need for your condition.
