CBD topicals: when and how to use them for the best effects

CBD has already become a buzzword, and most of you already know that it can be used orally. But what about the topical use? In this article, we’ll talk about how CBD topicals work, their types, benefits, and criteria to choose the most potent ones.

What is a CBD topical & how does it work?

CBD (also commonly known as cannabidiol) is an active, chemical compound found in the cannabis Sativa plant. Unlike its relative THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is also found in the plant, CBD doesn’t change your mental state. This is because most CBD topical and oral products contain less than 0.3% of THC to comply with legislation.

CBD topicals include products infused with cannabidiol that can be applied topically, for example, a CBD cream, balm, salve and lotion. This way, CBD penetrates the dermal and subdermal skin layers, reaching further than the surface of the skin. After application and absorption through the skin, cannabidiol is broken down by fatty acids and goes further to interact with receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for the sensations of pain and pleasure while its cell receptors are found in skin, muscle tissue and nerves. Therefore, using CBD oil for pain can help alleviate both pain and inflammation.

The skin is quite thick, so when you apply CBD cream, the CBD soaks into the skin; it does not make it to the bloodstream. It interacts with receptors and can modulate the pain and inflammatory response.

When to use CBD topicals?

• For pain. CBD topical might help ease chronic pain in part by reducing inflammation. As CBD doesn’t reach the bloodstream, it is best used for localised pain since it doesn’t offer full-body pain relief;
• For psoriasis. It is an autoimmune disease characterised by patches of abnormal skin. CBD topicals can ease psoriasis by reducing the inflammation and slowing down skin cells growth;
• For acne. Studies have shown that CBD topicals can regulate sebum production and act against inflammation;
• For eczema. CBD in topicals reduces inflammation and relieves dry skin. CBD can also help to soothe itching and pain;
• For dry skin. CBD topicals have a perfect balance of essential fatty acids Omega 3 and Omega 6 that can nourish and moisturise any type of skin;
• For wrinkles. Since wrinkles and fine lines are more visible on dry skin, CBD topicals may help to balance and stimulate oil production. Also, its antioxidant activity might be beneficial in preventing the appearance of skin ageing.

How to choose a CBD topical

These are the criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency of the best CBD oil for anxiety, pain, insomnia or any other ailment you may have:

• The product is made by a company providing proof of third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant lab;
• The product contains no more than 0.2 (0.3 in the US) per cent THC, according to the Certificate of Analysis (COA);
• The product passes tests for heavy metals and pesticides, according to the COA;
• The company’s certifications and manufacturing processes;
• Overall ingredients;
• The product potency;
• Customer reviews and whether the company makes any unsupported health claims.

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