Cannabis Basics
Intro to Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals, such as THC and CBD creams, lotions and oils, can be applied to skin, hair and nails. Learn how they work, discover their pros and cons and get shopping tips.
Published on January 30, 2021 | Last updated August 8, 2024
Cannabis topicals — think CBD- and THC-infused bath bombs, skin creams and bath salts — are unique products that might just shake up the way you think about consuming cannabis.
Learn what topicals are, how they work in the body and how they differ from other cannabis products. Plus, find out what to consider when choosing the right topical for you.
What are cannabis topicals?
Topical cannabis products are lotions, creams,oils, bath salts and bath bombsinfused with cannabis extracts. These are typically applied externally to the body, including hair, skin and nails. Unlike cannabis products that are eaten or inhaled, topicals work locally, targeting areas directly. They usually contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), or mixture of both, though more topicals are hitting the market containing minor cannabinoids as well.
How do topicals work?
When you apply cannabis on the skin, the cannabinoids travel into your epidermal system, not your bloodstream. You may feel tingling or muscle relaxation but it’s unlikely you’ll experience the psychoactive effects associated with other forms of cannabis that contain THC. (CBD does not produce intoxicating effects when absorbed into your bloodstream or epidermal system.)
Types of topicals
Many types of cannabis-infused topicals are available in the legal market. These are some of the most popular.
|
|
What they are |
How to apply them* |
Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cannabis balms | Cannabis balms contain high-quality cannabis extracts, carrier oils and waxes, and remain solid at room temperature. | Apply the desired amount to the affected area. | CBD balm, CBD lip balm, THC balm |
| Cannabis salves | Cannabis salves are substantial in texture and are formulated for intense hydration. They often include ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil or beeswax as a base. | Massage into the skin until fully absorbed. | CBD salve |
| Cannabis cooling gels and sticks | Cannabis-infused gels and sticks deliver a cooling sensation through added ingredients like arnica or menthol. Cannabis extracts do not produce a cooling sensation on their own. Some gels and sticks come in transdermal formulations intended for deeper absorption. | Glide the product onto muscles or joints with your hands or using the stick. | CBD cooling gel, 1:1 CBD and THC cooling gel, CBD stick |
| Cannabis roll-ons | These are cannabis-infused topical products designed for hands-free application and fast absorption. Roll-ons typically deliver a light, quick-drying formula without mess. Some rolls-ons come in transdermal formulations intended for deeper absorption. | Roll the product onto muscles or joints. | CBD roll-on |
| Cannabis bath bombs, salts and soaks | Cannabis bath products dissolve in warm water. They often include soothing terpenes and hydrating oils. | Drop product into a warm bath and soak for as long as indicated in product directions. | CBD bath salts, CBD bath bomb, THC bath bomb, CBD salt soak, CBD shower steamer |
| Cannabis suppositories | Cannabis-infused suppositories are inserted into the vagina or rectum and absorbed internally. | Follow the product’s insertion directions. | CBD suppository, THC suppository |
| Cannabis creams and salves | Cannabis-infused creams are applied to the face and body. | Massage into the skin with clean hands. | Cannabis lotion, cannabis salve, THC ointment, CBD skincare |
| Cannabis lubricants and massage oils | Cannabis-infused lubricants are designed to reduce friction during sexual activity and massage. | Apply liberally to the desired area. Follow product directions for use. | CBD lube, THC lube, CBD massage oil, THC massage oil |
| Transdermal products | Transdermal products are designed for deep absorption to provide transdermal delivery of cannabinoids. Transdermal patches offer precise dosing and discretion. | Apply patch to desired area. See above for suggested gel and roll-on directions |
Transdermal patches, transdermal gels and transdermal roll-ons |
How are topicals different from other types of cannabis?
The main difference between topicals and other forms of cannabis is in how the body processes the cannabinoids.
Most cannabis topicals differ from other cannabis products by not inducing an intoxicating "high" — even when they contain THC. Because most topicals are only applied externally, cannabinoids are absorbed into the skin superficially and don't enter the bloodstream in significant quantities. Topicals are designed to deliver targeted effects to those areas where the product is applied.
Transdermal patches can facilitate greater cannabinoid absorption into the bloodstream, but because they still need to penetrate layers of skin, and do not enter the body via ingestion or inhalation, it's unlikely consumers will feel a pronounced effect of THC. Similarly, suppositories are unlikely to produce intoxicating effects, although some consumers say they can experience a "high" at large dose. More research is required to understand these consumption methods. As with any format, it's always best to start low and go slow."
You can learn more about the potency of topicals below.
Do cannabis topicals work?
As with other consumption methods, the effects of topicals can be influenced by several factors, including personal body chemistry and product quality. Here’s what current research has to say about some of the most popular uses for cannabis topicals.
Topical cannabis for skincare: Research has explored CBD's potential to promote wound healing, reduce inflammation and improve skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and scleroderma.
More human studies are needed to fully understand its potential, but some promising science is emerging around CBD skincare.
Topical cannabis for pain management and relief: Does cannabis cream work for pain? Whether it’s soreness after the gym or chronic aches, many people explore topicals for their pain-relieving potential. Research on topical CBD shows promise in easing pain for neuropathy patients and former elite athletes, and it also improved daily physical function for the former athletes.
Topical cannabis for sexual health: While research on the impact of cannabis topicals on sexual health is limited, the endocannabinoid system has receptors implicated in sexual health. The use of cannabis, including CBD, is being explored for its potential in managing menstrual cramps, pelvic pain, endometriosis and menopause symptoms. More research is needed to fully understand its impact on these issues. There is no research yet that shows a definite relationship between topical cannabis and increased sexual performance or satisfaction.
What are the pros and cons of using topicals?
For people looking to incorporate cannabinoids in their day-to-day lives, topicals offer a smoke-free, non-intoxicating option. They’re convenient to apply, easy to incorporate into regular routines and come in familiar packaging and formats. Consumers used to the rapid onset of effects that come with inhaled cannabis formats, or the longer duration of effects of cannabis edibles, may have to adjust their expectations and get used to localized effects that could require reapplication to be sustained.
What to consider when shopping for topicals
Before you purchase a topical cannabis product, read the label or the information available on the product page at OCS.ca so you know how much THC and CBD it contains. Be sure to check for other ingredients that may influence its efficacy, smell, texture, absorption quality or suitability for you. As with any skincare product, look out for ingredients that work for your skin, and avoid ingredients that don’t. You may wish to consider potency and application process, too.
As with any wellness product, you may want to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing cannabis topicals into your skincare or wellness regime.
