Topical cannabinoids are getting a lot of attention. These are lotions, balms, and oils made with cannabinoids like THC, CBD, or CBG that you apply to your skin, rather than smoking, vaping, or eating them.
When cannabinoids are inhaled or eaten, they’re absorbed into the bloodstream and travel throughout the body. Topicals work differently: they’re applied to a specific area of skin, where they interact with cannabinoid receptors found in the skin itself.
Let’s take a closer look at how they work.
How Topical Cannabinoids Work
Application and absorption
It all begins with a simple application. Whether it’s a creamy lotion, a rich balm, or a smooth oil, the product is massaged into the skin, where it’s absorbed into the epidermis—the skin’s outer layer. Most topicals aren’t designed to reach the bloodstream, so they typically don’t produce the “high” associated with THC, even when THC is one of the ingredients. (Transdermal patches are the exception: they’re made to reach the bloodstream, so always read the label.)
Formulation matters
How a topical absorbs depends a lot on how it’s made. Many products use carrier oils or other ingredients to help cannabinoids work their way into the skin, and most are formulated to stay local to where you apply them.
What the research says
Researchers are still learning how topical cannabinoids interact with the skin, and much of the research so far is early. Topicals aren’t approved to treat, cure, or prevent any condition. If you have a skin condition or other health concern, talk with your healthcare provider before trying a new product.
Things to Keep in Mind
Not all products are alike
Not all topical cannabinoid products are created equal. The concentration of cannabinoids, the carrier ingredients, and the specific blend of cannabinoids all vary from product to product, so it’s worth reading the label and asking questions.
Everyone’s skin is different
Skin types vary, and so do people’s experiences with topicals. Try a small area first, and stop using any product that irritates your skin.
Quality matters
Not all products on the market are equally trustworthy. That’s why we’re committed to offering only the highest quality topical cannabinoid products. Every item on our shelves undergoes rigorous third-party lab testing to ensure it’s free of microbial contamination, pesticides, and heavy metals. Our staff is thoroughly trained in these products and can help you find the right one for you.
At GP716, we’re proud to carry our own line of topical cannabinoids under the Elevated Botanicals brand. Our Soothe Lotion, available in lavender or citrus vanilla, is made with a blend of THC, CBD, and CBG. Stop in and our Cannabis Educators will be happy to tell you more.
Consult a physician before use if pregnant, nursing, have or suspect you have a medical condition, or taking medications. The information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.
