Topical CBD products are fast becoming more popular, especially among our age group. Around one-third of American adults have used CBD at least once, and that figure is expected to increase in the coming years.
How much do you know about CBD products, though? Take topical CBD — you might be unsure exactly what it is or how it works.
That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to explain all you need to know about topical CBD and whether or not it works. Keep reading to find out more!
What Are Topical CBD Products?
There are several different forms of CBD — you can get CBD water and coffee — but generally, people will use oral and topical CBD. To Shop CBD products, click here.
Oral CBD is self-explanatory — you take it with your mouth — but what about topical CBD?
You apply topicals to a part of your body on the outside. CBD topicals help with physical discomfort when applied to the affected area. CBD topicals include creams, balms, and lotions — as you can see, topical CBD products differ from oral CBD products like CBD tea and similar.
Do They Work?
Simply put, yes, they do.
When you use CBD topical treatments, your epidermis and pores absorb the CBD, which then works with the cannabinoid receptors in your skin. Topical CBD products can also contain other ingredients that look after your skin as a bonus, so it can be sensible to use them when dealing with physical discomfort.
Topical CBD Benefits
Topicals are easy to use, and they don’t take long at all to start working. It also feels less invasive than taking CBD orally, as it doesn’t enter your body at any point.
They have low bioavailability, so the CBD won’t reach your bloodstream, but because you’re applying directly to the affected area, the effects are quick and generally more centralized, too.
Moreover, topical CBD can help manage:
- arthritis,
- acne,
- epidermolysis bullosa, and
- psoriasis.
It’s even a more potent antioxidant than vitamins C and E, so it can help your skin and hair look young!
Topical or Oral – Which is Better?
There’s no easy answer to this question, as both are effective and have advantages. It will depend on your needs and requirements — why are you using CBD products?
If you’re looking to focus on a specific area where you’re experiencing physical discomfort, you may choose to use CBD topically.
In contrast, oral CBD products make the CBD enter your bloodstream so it can affect various parts of your body at once — if you’re taking CBD for a mental health condition, oral CBD use is more advisable, too.
Choosing Topical CBD
When considering topical CBD products, it’s essential to be informed. We’ve covered the basics here — we know what topical CBD is and how it’s used, so why not think about whether it might be right for you and then go ahead and start using it?
Side Effects Of Using Topical CBD
Even though very few people experience this, it is one of this form’s most severe side effects.
Topical CBD is capable of causing skin irritation in people who misuse it. It can also cause a heightening of the symptoms they are prescribed for.
It can lead to many side effects that may not leave you feeling comfortable. Many people find that CBD daily is more effective than sporadically – meaning, once within a gap of a few days.
Even though you should be careful about topical CBD, its use differs from person to person and cannot be the same for everyone. If you think topical CBD products aren’t meant for you. Check out the following section for alternatives that can help!
Topical CBD Alternatives You Did Not Know Existed!
Topical CBD products, such as creams and balms, are commonly used for localized pain relief, inflammation, or skin care. However, if you’re looking for alternatives, several options can provide similar benefits without relying on CBD. Here are a few:
1. Arnica Creams and Gels
Arnica, a natural herb, is widely used for reducing inflammation, bruising, and joint pain. It is available in creams, gels, or oils and is especially effective for sore muscles or swelling.
2. Capsaicin Creams
Capsaicin, which comes from chilli peppers, can be good for topical application to reduce pain by desensitizing nerve receptors. It’s beneficial for arthritis, nerve pain, and muscle aches.
3. Essential Oil Blends
When diluted with carrier oils, essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus can be applied to soothe sore muscles, reduce tension, and promote relaxation. For inflammation, tea trees or frankincense oils work well.
4. Over-the-Counter Pain-Relieving Creams
Products containing menthol, camphor, or salicylates (like Bengay or Icy Hot) can provide a cooling or warming sensation to relieve muscle and joint pain.
5. Magnesium Lotions and Sprays
Magnesium-based topicals are effective for muscle relaxation and pain relief. Athletes often use them to address cramps or stiffness.
6. Herbal Compresses or Patches
Herbal heat or cooling patches containing natural ingredients like turmeric, ginger, or menthol can provide targeted relief for aches and inflammation.
7. Aloe Vera Gels
Aloe vera gel offers soothing and anti-inflammatory properties for skin care and mild irritation. It’s ideal for sunburn, minor cuts, or redness.
8. Turmeric and Curcumin Topicals
Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric-based creams or oils can help reduce joint pain or skin inflammation.
Wrapping It Up!
That was all about using a topical CBD to improve your health. The best way to do it is by following the best recommendation by your physician.
Ensure you are consuming only the dose your doctor recommends, for the area they specify. There may be several side effects that you may experience with its improper use.
Talk to your physician about using the alternatives here, or anything better they may suggest!
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