Potency of Cannabis Topicals

Last updated December 13, 2024 | Published on April 28, 2021

Although topical cannabis products provide a smoke-free option for consuming cannabis, there are many considerations when it comes to the amount you should apply, the potency and the potential effects. Here’s what you need to know — and why you should always buy legal. 

How Much Should I Apply?

While their ingredients may vary, every topical product starts with a base that will eventually contain the cannabis. It’s not surprising that producers use the same elements that compose non-infused skincare products — such as shea butter, beeswax, argan oil and Epsom salt — to provide consumers with a similar experience. 

Cannabis topicals come in many different forms, ranging from gels to bath bombs. Some of the options include:  

• balms 

• creams and salves 

• cooling gels and sticks 

• roll-ons 

• bath bombs, salts and soaks 

• suppositories 

• lubricants and massage oils 

• transdermal products 

How much of a cannabis topical should I apply? 

There is no general guideline for how much topical cannabis should be applied. Start with a small amount and gradually increase it if needed. This approach allows you to gauge your body’s response and determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs. It is always better to start with less and add more, if necessary, rather than applying too much and experiencing unwanted effects.  

Read the label before you apply: Some products may have a higher concentration of THC, the intoxicating compound in cannabis, while others may have a higher concentration of CBD, a non-intoxicating compound known for its potential therapeutic benefits. 

Additionally, it’s important to follow the Licensed Producer's directions provided with the product. These directions will often include information on how much to apply, how often to use the product and any precautions or warnings to be aware of. By following these directions, you can ensure you are using the product safely and effectively. 

Can topicals be intoxicating?

Unlike smoking dried cannabis, which has been reported to produce an intoxicating effect within minutes, the effect of intoxication after applying cannabis extract–infused topical products is believed to be low. However, there is a lack of research to evaluate its potential effects. 

When you apply a cannabis product to 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. Current regulations for topicals allow for no more than 1,000 mg of THC in a package. 

Do cannabis topicals work to relieve pain?

Studies to determine whether cannabis topicals really work to relieve pain are ongoing. 

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. It also shows improved daily physical function for former elite athletes. 

Why buy legal cannabis? 

When you purchase a topical cannabis product from the legal market, either through OCS.ca or an Authorized Cannabis Store, you can be sure the THC and CBD content in the product is correct. Topicals that are available on the illegal market are unregulated, and may contain harmful substances, such as unauthorized pesticides, fungus or other contaminants. 

Legal cannabis products undergo rigorous testing and quality control measures. They’re tested for potency, purity and safety, ensuring that the products you consume are reliable and consistent.  

Products sold by the OCS do not claim to have health or cosmetic benefits and must be made of cosmetic-grade ingredients. 

Safety around children and pets is another reason to buy legal topicals. All products sold through legal channels are required to be in child-resistant packaging. 

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