CBD Topicals: Creams, Balms & Salves

Pain & Inflammation Relief for Muscles & Joints

CBD and other cannabinoids mimic the effects of the body’s endocannabinoids, bringing wellness support throughout the body. CBD topicals are designed to make the most of that interaction with TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors, in particular, giving soothing relief for minor aches and pains. Because CBD topical creams and related hemp products are so effective, people return to them again and again for relief against minor pain.**

Skin Health & Moisturization

Those same TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors also address skin health. In addition to CBD’s own soothing properties, we also sometimes use ingredients like shea butter and mango to moisturize skin. This is particularly true of our Soothing and Calming Formula CBD Bath Bombs.

Targeted Use vs Full Body Use

Our CBD Muscle & Joint Cream: Cooling Formula, CBD Muscle & Joint Cream: Heating Formula, and CBD Balm Stick are designed for targeted use to address localized aches and pains.** Our CBD Massage Oil can be either for targeted use or for a soothing full-body massage. And our CBD Bath Bombs are designed for a delightful, full-body soak.

To use a CBD topical cream or CBD body lotion, simply rub the cream onto the affected area of your skin. You should feel the effects of the CBD in about 15 minutes, depending on personal bioavailability factors. If not, you can reapply the CBD cream for pain over the affected area, if necessary. We recommend not applying CBD cream more than three or four times in a day.

How Much Should You Use per Area?

Depending on the size of the area, you can start with anywhere from a dime-size to a quarter-size dollop of CBD body lotion or cream. Make sure to rub it into the entire area affected by discomfort.

When Will You Feel the Effects?

It should only take about 15 minutes for you to begin feeling the effects of your CBD cream or balm. And because hemp-derived CBD is non-toxic, you can comfortably reapply it multiple times. Often, you’ll see the best results when you apply your CBD cream three or four times a day.

Tips to Enhance Absorption

There are a few ways you can enhance your body’s ability to absorb your CBD topical. For starters, the area should be clean and dry so that no dirt or oil is blocking your CBD from doing its job. Also, heat opens up pores, so a warm shower (make sure to dry off!) or warm compress can help, too. Lastly, make sure to massage the oil or cream into the affected area with circular motions to increase circulation.

Third-Party Lab Reports & Certificates

At CBDfx, all of our CBD products are made with organic hemp, so you never have to worry about pesticides, heavy metals, or other potentially harmful chemicals. And because of our clean and safe oil extraction process, our CBD doesn’t contain any of the solvent residues you might find in the hemp products from cheaper CBD brands. You can verify the purity and potency of our CBD products by looking at third-party lab reports (called a Certificate of Analysis), which we provide for all of our CBD topicals and other products. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities!

THC Content, Regulation & Local Laws

The 2018 US Farm Bill made CBD legal at the Federal level, so long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. All of our products, including our CBD topicals, comply with this law, though some state and local restrictions may apply. Check your state’s CBD laws for details.

Contraindications & Skin Sensitivities

Topical CBD is generally safe, but there are a few contraindications you should be aware of. Don’t apply CBD topicals to open wounds or broken skin. If your skin shows signs of irritation when you use a CBD topical, you should discontinue use and consult with a dermatologist. You could have an allergy to the CBD or to one of the ingredients in your product. And you should be aware that CBD can interact adversely with some medications. So, if you’re using medication and are considering using a CBD topical product, make sure you consult with your doctor first. You should also avoid using CBD topicals when you are pregnant or nursing.

Topicals vs Oils/Tinctures

Topicals and tincture oils are two entirely different types of CBD products. Topical creams and balms deliver localized relief through the skin, while tinctures are absorbed through the capillaries under the tongue. Both deliver their effects in roughly the same time period (15–30 minutes), and both can potentially last up to six hours (depending on the product and your body’s own bioavailability factors).

Topicals vs Edibles/Gummies

Unlike topicals, which are absorbed through the skin, CBD edibles (such as CBD gummies) travel through the digestive tract before you can start to feel their effects. This can take between 30 minutes and two hours for most people, and the effects can last six to eight hours for most people.

Choosing the Right Format for Your Needs

If you need a CBD product for localized pain relief or to soothe your skin, a topical is the way to go. If you’re looking for a product to help with sleep, stress, or daily wellness, look for a CBD tincture, capsule, or gummy.