Everything You Need to Know About Cannabis Topicals

THC-based topicals and creams are two of the more popular items in the cannabis umbrella. These items and many others are reportedly helping millions with cosmetic and medical needs.

What are Cannabis Topicals?

Cannabis topicals take classic lotions, balms, and creams and infuse them with extracted plant oil. DIY topicals typically feature THC or CBD as the dominant cannabinoid. However, the rise of plant science and extraction tech has allowed cannabinoids like THCA, CBG, CBGA, CBDA, and many others to be more prominent in topical blends.

Topicals work in several ways, with various intended outcomes. In most cases, CBD and THC topicals are meant to be skin or muscle-deep without reaching the bloodstream, eliminating any concerns regarding an intoxicating effect. 

On the other hand, transdermal patches do reach the bloodstream by avoiding the body's first-pass metabolism through the liver. In doing so, cannabis transdermal products typically deliver a quicker onset as they can get through to the bloodstream much more quickly through the skin.¹ 

Topicals have a loyal fanbase of consumers, mainly health and wellness-minded and medical consumers. 

Today, many brands have started to infuse CBD into their cosmetic products. With cannabinoids combined into a cream or topical, CBD, CBC, THCV, and CBDV are reported to have benefits for acne and as an antibacterial and antioxidant.² 

Topical products have become central to many consumers’ skin regimens, potentially providing relief for various conditions, including:

• Acne
• Dermatitis
• Dry skin
• Eczema
• Hives
• Inflammation
• Menstrual pain
• Muscle pains, strains, and sprains
• Neck and head pain
• Pain (short-term and chronic)
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Skin irritation

Cannabis Topical Types

Cannabis topicals come in many product types and application methods, with each providing unique potential relief.³  

Cannabis Lotion

Cannabis lotions are intended to provide relief directly to the surface of your skin. 

Unlike other topical products, such as transdermal patches (which may be better for whole-body pain relief), cannabis lotions are often used by consumers to address skin problems, such as dry skin, acne, and more. There is some documented evidence that CBD may provide benefits for skin conditions, though further research is required.⁴ 

Studies have also suggested that THC lotion may have anti-inflammatory properties.⁵ While cannabis lotions are more commonly used to help with skin conditions, lotions containing these cannabinoids may still help relieve pain and soothe inflammation.

Cannabis Creams and Ointments

Many cannabis topical products also come as cannabis creams and ointments. Many are also infused with CBD and designed for targeted relief. Still, legalization has allowed a variety of THC creams and ointments to be produced, depending on the state market and regulations. 

As such, cannabis creams and ointments, particularly CBD-based options, may be a helpful choice for patients seeking relief from conditions such as:

• Arthritis: A study on rats found that CBD ointments made with transdermal ingredients helped relieve arthritis-related pain and swelling.⁶
• Nerve pain: Another study found that patients suffering from nerve damage experienced pain relief after using transdermal CBD ointments.⁷
• Jaw pain: A third study found that patients suffering from jaw pain who applied CBD creams made with transdermal ingredients twice a day experienced pain relief in targeted areas.⁸

Many creams contain other functional ingredients besides CBD that claim to bolster their pain-relieving properties. For example, many CBD creams and ointments may also include menthol, caffeine, and eucalyptus, among other things.

Cannabis Balms and Salves

A cannabis balm is a moisture-sealing, localized relief topical cannabis product made from butter, waxes, and oils concentrated with active ingredients such as THC and CBD. Cannabis-infused salves and balms are thick and sometimes oily topicals, similar to Vasoline in texture. They are used by many patients for localized pains and skin conditions, including minor cuts and scrapes, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and muscle discomfort. These types of topicals must be placed directly on the area of need to feel the effects.

Balms provide relief, but be aware of the difference in texture before applying. In many cases, infused or otherwise, balms are very thick, especially compared to lotions and creams, due to ingredients like shea butter or beeswax.

CBD Oil

Perhaps the simplest kind of topical cannabis product is CBD oil, where CBD extract is mixed into an oil, such as coconut oil. 

There are many different ways you can use CBD oil. Many people use it as a dietary supplement and add it to food and drink. However, depending on the ingredients, it can also be used as a topical and be absorbed into the skin in this form. 

It’s important to note that CBD oil made with coconut oil or a similar product is not the same as cannabis oil meant for vaping and should not be inhaled.

If you're interested in trying cannabis topicals for pain or inflammation relief, a cream or balm might be best. Given the popularity and availability of CBD oil, this kind of topical may be easier for many consumers to find.

Transdermal Patches

Transdermal patches are adhesive patches formulated with penetration-enhancing ingredients attached to the skin. When left on the skin, the patch's active ingredients will absorb through the skin and into the bloodstream over a period of time, ranging from 6 to 24 hours. Due to the way cannabinoids from transdermal patches are absorbed, they have the potential to result in intoxicating effects–whereas THC found in other topicals won’t.

Typically, people seek out cannabis transdermal patches to alleviate chronic pain. Given that their design allows the compounds to be absorbed over an extended period, they may be more appropriate for treating chronic or long-term pain or inflammation problems over a balm or cream that must be reapplied regularly.

Cannabis Bath Bombs or Salts

Cannabis bath bombs are preferred by people looking to relax and potentially receive some therapeutic relief. Cannabis bath bombs act like a standard bath bomb would, with users placing the orb into bath water. Once in the water, the bath bomb will dissolve and release the listed cannabinoids into the water. While in the water, a person will not only absorb the cannabinoids into their skin, but they may absorb them into their bloodstream via vaginal or rectal mucous membranes.

Cannabis-infused bath salts are another popular option. Much like THC or CBD bath bombs, users place a handful or more of the small stones into the water, and the cannabinoids are released over time. In addition to promoting relaxation, bath salts may help soothe muscles, creating a rejuvenating experience.

How Do THC Topicals Work?

Cannabis-infused topicals have presented a world of promise to address various conditions using localized relief. The vast array of topical options offers users a good degree of specificity to treat their unique needs and goals. However, users must be aware that not every product will function similarly.

Most of the products in the topical category will function similarly. Salves, lotions, creams, and bombs all provide a localized treatment. A person seeking relief must place the topical directly on the area of need to experience any therapeutic effects. 

The effects of THC topicals are created by the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). Along with endocannabinoids like anandamide and 2-AG, this intricate system throughout our body is made up of CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors play crucial roles in various functions within the body, including follicular cells, sensory neurons, immune cells, sebaceous glands, and keratinocytes. The receptors also play a part in the modulation of various skin functions, including inflammation and pain. 

The receptors are activated when one or more cannabis compounds, like THC or CBD, are introduced onto the skin. Reported effects include reduced inflammation and improvements to the skin barrier.

Unlike smoked and vaped cannabis or edibles, most topicals are intended to affect users on a skin-deep level, reaching the top layers of the skin but not the bloodstream. As such, most THC topicals will not produce a “high” sensation.

Transdermal patches act in a different capacity. When placed on the body, the THC and other possible medications on the adhesive will enter the body, eventually reaching the bloodstream. 

This process sees the topical absorbed into the body and carried around by the blood vessels. The process allows transdermal topicals to avoid the liver's initial processing before reaching the body's circulation. 

To make it easier for the cannabinoids to pass through the skin barrier, topical producers can use oleic acid and ethanol to help deliver cannabinoids further into the body. Nanoemulsions, or methods that break cannabis oil down to microscopic particles, have also proven effective at penetrating the skin and reaching the bloodstream.⁹

Both topical and transdermal applications have been shown to typically generate higher bioavailability rates at steady plasma rates in subjects, allowing more cannabis to enter the body.¹⁰

Can You Get High on Topical THC? 

Most topicals will not cause an intoxicating reaction. Transdermals, though, may cause intoxicating effects when using high THC-infused options that are not time-released. The results from a topical can come overtly or subtly, depending on the condition. A consumer may not notice the increased mental relaxation from a bath bomb or salt, but the effects on the muscles and joints are often much more apparent.

In any case, these effects can last for hours or even days. Select animal studies have found that CBD topicals maintain steady plasma levels for 72 hours after application, while THC topicals do the same for the first 24 hours after application.

Topical THC Risks and Side Effects

Topicals and transdermal options tend to carry a low-risk profile for consumers. Cannabinoids are commonly considered low allergy risks. Remember that every person is different and has a unique medical profile. Some products may contain allergens or irritants that could aggravate people with certain skin conditions, so use caution when trying new items.¹¹ 

Users should consult with their physician before making any decisions about topicals or transdermals. While both may carry low risks, it's always best to practice safety whenever possible.

Cannabis Topicals Compared

Topical	Benefits	Possible Side Effects	Ideal for	Price range
Cannabis lotion	Moisturizing, Healthy Skin	Other ingredients may cause irritation in some patients.	Dry skin, acne, eczema	$20 - $60
Cannabis cream	Pain/Inflammation Relief	Some active ingredients may cause drug interactions depending on the product.	Light pain, joint swelling, inflammation	$25 - $100
Cannabis ointment	Pain/Inflammation Relief	Some active ingredients may cause drug interactions depending on the product.	Light pain, joint swelling, inflammation	$25 - $100
Cannabis balm	Pain/Inflammation Relief	Some active ingredients may cause drug interactions depending on the product.	Greater concentrations of cannabinoids ideal for more severe or long-lasting pain/inflammation	$20 - $60
CBD oil	Pain Relief, Healthy Skin, Relaxation	Some products may not absorb in the skin very well or aren’t meant to be used as a topical.	Relaxation of the muscles/skin	$50 - $150
Transdermal patch	Chronic/Severe Pain Relief	Some active ingredients may cause drug interactions depending on the product. Some contain THC which may not be ideal for all patients.	Chronic pain, nerve damage, moderate to severe injuries	$5 - $50

Cannabis Topicals: Legality

Depending on your state of residence, cannabis topicals that contain THC may not be available. Unfortunately, in the United States, each state decides the legality of the plant and which products can be sold in any legalized market.

As of April 2024, THC and THC-infused topicals remain illegal in the following states:

• Georgia
• Idaho
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Nebraska
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

In these states, the only cannabis topicals that are available will be those made with hemp-derived CBD. 

Even so, cannabis legalization is increasing in popularity across the country, and these laws may soon change with time. This is especially true as the federal government reschedules cannabis to Schedule III, downgrading from Schedule I. As of early 2024, the government is finalizing the details of the move. 

---

Which topical THC is most potent?

This answer will vary based on your state market and its rules. A general rule of thumb is to check the label for product potency. Be sure to note the product's cannabinoid profile and overall dosage. Instructions for cannabis topicals generally do not provide serving sizes for application and instead instruct users to apply liberally and as needed. 

It may be frustrating not to find a topical with your ideal potency. Before getting upset with the retailer, check your state laws. Many states place caps on the amount of cannabinoid content, notably THC, allowed in items like topicals and edibles. If your state has a more rigid cap on THC, you may struggle to find high-potency products on the legal market.

Do topical THC products show up in drug tests?

Cannabinoids in a standard topical product will not reach your bloodstream, meaning their appearance on a drug screening is highly improbable. However, transdermal cannabis products can reach the bloodstream and could potentially trigger a positive drug test.

Which topical has the longest-lasting effect?

Transdermal topical cannabis products are often the ones with the longest-lasting effect due to their time-released nature, ranging between 6 to 24 hours. Non-transdermal products don’t last as long, typically up to 4 hours. Many individuals use topicals as needed, varying wildly depending on the person.

References

1. Bruni N, Della Pepa C, Oliaro-Bosso S, Pessione E, Gastaldi D, Dosio F. Cannabinoid Delivery Systems for Pain and Inflammation Treatment. Molecules. 2018;23(10):2478. Published 2018 Sep 27. doi:10.3390/molecules23102478 ↩︎
2. Mnekin L, Ripoll L. Topical Use of Cannabis sativa L. Biochemicals. Cosmetics. 2021; 8(3):85. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics8030085 ↩︎
3. Spindle TR, Bonn-Miller MO, Vandrey R. Changing landscape of cannabis: novel products, formulations, and methods of administration. Curr Opin Psychol. 2019;30:98-102. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.04.002 ↩︎
4. Baswan SM, Klosner AE, Glynn K, Rajgopal A, Malik K, Yim S, Stern N. Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Skin Health and Disorders. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020 Dec 8;13:927-942. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S286411. PMID: 33335413; PMCID: PMC7736837. ↩︎
5. Anil SM, Peeri H, Koltai H. Medical Cannabis Activity Against Inflammation: Active Compounds and Modes of Action. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:908198. Published 2022 May 9. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.908198 ↩︎
6. Hammell DC, Zhang LP, Ma F, Abshire SM, McIlwrath SL, Stinchcomb AL, Westlund KN. Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis. Eur J Pain. 2016 Jul;20(6):936-48. doi: 10.1002/ejp.818. Epub 2015 Oct 30. PMID: 26517407; PMCID: PMC4851925. ↩︎
7. Xu DH, Cullen BD, Tang M, Fang Y. The Effectiveness of Topical Cannabidiol Oil in Symptomatic Relief of Peripheral Neuropathy of the Lower Extremities. Curr Pharm Biotechnol. 2020;21(5):390-402. doi:10.2174/1389201020666191202111534 ↩︎
8. Nitecka-Buchta A, Nowak-Wachol A, Wachol K, Walczyńska-Dragon K, Olczyk P, Batoryna O, Kempa W, Baron S. Myorelaxant Effect of Transdermal Cannabidiol Application in Patients with TMD: A Randomized, Double-Blind Trial. J Clin Med. 2019 Nov 6;8(11):1886. doi: 10.3390/jcm8111886. PMID: 31698733; PMCID: PMC6912397. ↩︎
9. Filipiuc S-I, Neagu A-N, Uritu CM, Tamba B-I, Filipiuc L-E, Tudorancea IM, Boca AN, Hâncu MF, Porumb V, Bild W. The Skin and Natural Cannabinoids–Topical and Transdermal Applications. Pharmaceuticals. 2023; 16(7):1049. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16071049 ↩︎
10. Mahmoudinoodezh H, Telukutla SR, Bhangu SK, Bachari A, Cavalieri F, Mantri N. The Transdermal Delivery of Therapeutic Cannabinoids. Pharmaceutics. 2022 Feb 18;14(2):438. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020438. PMID: 35214170; PMCID: PMC8876728. ↩︎
11. Patel PM, Lio PA. Safety and Sourcing of Topical Cannabinoids: Many Questions, Few Answers. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(8):49-51. ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.