How Cannabis Topicals Work
Cannabis topicals work through the endocannabinoid system in your skin. CB1 and CB2 receptors in skin cells respond to cannabinoids, providing localized effects without entering the bloodstream significantly enough to cause psychoactive effects.
The Endocannabinoid System in Skin
- • CB1 receptors in nerve endings and hair follicles
- • CB2 receptors in immune cells and sebaceous glands
- • Natural endocannabinoids produced in skin
- • Regulates pain, inflammation, and cell production
- • Controls oil production and barrier function
Mechanisms of Action
- • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and redness
- • Analgesic: Blocks pain signals at source
- • Anti-proliferative: Regulates skin cell growth
- • Sebostatic: Controls oil production
- • Antioxidant: Protects from environmental damage
✓ Why Topicals Don't Get You High
Topicals work locally in skin tissue and typically don't reach systemic circulation in amounts sufficient for psychoactive effects. Even THC-containing topicals rarely produce mental effects when applied to intact skin.
Types of Cannabis Topicals
Lotions & Creams
2-4 hoursLarge areas, daily moisturizing, general pain
Consistency: Smooth, spreadable
Absorption: Fast to moderate
Typical Potency: 10-100mg cannabinoids per container
Balms & Salves
4-6 hoursTargeted spots, deep tissue, dry skin
Consistency: Thick, waxy
Absorption: Slow, long-lasting
Typical Potency: 25-200mg cannabinoids per container
Patches
8-12 hoursConsistent dosing, specific areas, hands-free
Consistency: Adhesive patch
Absorption: Controlled release
Typical Potency: 10-40mg per patch
Roll-On Gels
2-4 hoursOn-the-go application, cooling effect
Consistency: Light gel
Absorption: Fast
Typical Potency: 50-150mg cannabinoids per container
Bath Products
1-3 hours post-bathRelaxation, muscle soreness, skin conditions
Consistency: Salts, bombs, oils
Absorption: Whole-body, gentle
Typical Potency: 25-100mg per use
Massage Oils
2-4 hoursMuscle work, intimacy, relaxation
Consistency: Liquid oil
Absorption: Moderate with massage
Typical Potency: 100-500mg cannabinoids per bottle
Medical Applications & Conditions
Cannabis topicals show promise for various conditions, offering targeted relief without systemic effects:
Arthritis & Joint Pain
Best Cannabinoids: THC, CBD, CBG
How it Works: Anti-inflammatory action reduces swelling and pain signals
Application: Apply to affected joints 2-3 times daily
Synergistic Ingredients: Menthol, arnica, turmeric
Muscle Soreness & Tension
Best Cannabinoids: CBD, CBG, minor cannabinoids
How it Works: Muscle relaxation and anti-inflammatory effects
Application: Massage into sore muscles after activity
Synergistic Ingredients: Capsaicin, eucalyptus, magnesium
Skin Conditions (Eczema, Psoriasis)
Best Cannabinoids: CBD dominant, low or no THC
How it Works: Regulates skin cell production and reduces inflammation
Application: Apply thin layer to affected areas twice daily
Synergistic Ingredients: Aloe vera, vitamin E, ceramides
Neuropathic Pain
Best Cannabinoids: THC, CBD in combination
How it Works: Modulates pain signals through CB1/CB2 receptors
Application: Apply to area of nerve pain as needed
Synergistic Ingredients: Lidocaine, capsaicin, menthol
Headaches & Migraines
Best Cannabinoids: CBD, small amounts of THC
How it Works: Reduces inflammation and muscle tension
Application: Apply to temples, neck, and shoulders
Synergistic Ingredients: Peppermint oil, lavender, magnesium
Discover Our Therapeutic Topicals Collection
From soothing salves to targeted pain relief patches