Yes. Topical use is one of several methods of consuming CBD. But it works a little differently than, say, taking it sublingually, or under the tongue. Instead of entering the bloodstream, topical CBD reaches endocannabinoid receptors through the skin. That’s why you experience localized effects. Does CBD cream show up in a drug test? If you’re looking for a CBD topical specifically for pain relief, you may also want to look for products with additional pain-relieving ingredients. Warming and cooling creams, which often contain menthol or arnica, provide an added pain relief component for aches and pain. Potency If a product doesn’t work for you, consider trying another with different ingredients or a different amount of CBD. Ingredients In 2020, researchers sent a questionnaire to people living with arthritis to understand how effective CBD is for managing pain associated with the condition.

But it can be a bit tough to sift through the many CBD products on the market. How can you tell which CBD creams are the real deal? Iffland K, et al. (2017). An update on safety and side effects of cannabidiol: A review of clinical data and relevant animal studies.

That means it’s especially important to do your own research and find a quality product. The product’s COA should confirm that it passes tests for contaminants and that it contains the amount of CBD and THC it claims. A date of minimum durability such as best before a named date or a duration period after opening to show for how long the product may be kept or used. Research into CBD’s pain-relieving abilities is still in the early stages. However, so far, there’s some evidence that topical CBD products, like creams, may help with a variety of pain sensations, including:

Think about your motivation for buying. Are you hoping to benefit from a hydrating boost of CBD for your face or body in general? Are you treating tenderness somewhere specific? Being clear about the result you want can help you zero in on a product that will best suit your needs. Product consistency

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A 2020 research review indicates the application of topical CBD products could be therapeutic for acne and eczema. A 2021 review of human clinical studies also supports this. However, the review notes that topical CBD can sometimes cause mild side effects like stinging and burning.