Topical CBD creams and oils seem like the perfect way to spot-treat pain and inflammation regularly without side effects, but do they actually work? If so, how?
Topical CBD products don’t enter the bloodstream; instead, they bond with endocannabinoid receptors found on the skin. These receptors allow CBD to directly influence sensation in the area of application, reducing discomfort or pain as a result.
Much of what we understand about CBD and how it impacts our body comes from our knowledge of the endocannabinoid system inside of the body. More inquiry into topicals and just how they get the job done is certainly needed, but for now, we do have some information to work off of.
Understanding how your topical products actually do what they’re supposed to makes it easier to use them wisely, and it can also give you some much-needed peace of mind.
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Does topical CBD get into the bloodstream?
Typically, topical CBD products do not enter the bloodstream in significant amounts. The skin acts as a natural barrier, preventing CBD from penetrating deeply enough to reach systemic circulation. Instead, CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, producing localized effects such as pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits.
However, there are some exceptions:
- Transdermal CBD: Applied through patches, transdermal CBD can penetrate the thicker middle layer of skin with stronger blood flow, allowing it to enter the bloodstream.
- Novel delivery methods: Recent research has shown that certain technologies, such as Gefion Canada GT4 Technology, can deliver CBD and THC into the bloodstream via a topical cream. This is a significant development, as it demonstrates the potential for topical cannabinoid delivery without using transdermal patches.
- Product formulation: Some topical products may be specifically designed to enhance penetration, potentially allowing small amounts of CBD to enter the bloodstream.
It’s important to note that for most standard CBD creams and lotions, the CBD remains in the skin layers and does not circulate through the bloodstream. This localized effect is often sufficient for users to experience the intended benefits without systemic absorption
How is topical CBD absorbed?
Topical CBD, or CBD products that are rubbed onto the external surface of the body (skin, joints, etc.), can be absorbed into the body via endocannabinoid receptors on human skin.
Standard topical CBD products:
- Penetrate the outer layer of skin (stratum corneum)
- Interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin
- Generally do not enter the bloodstream in significant amounts
What are endocannabinoid receptors? They function almost like messaging systems that run between molecules found in external substances like CBD and various systems in the body.
These receptors are a fundamental part of the endocannabinoid system, a complex network that exists in the human body to help it maintain homeostasis. The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, is found in the body regardless of whether or not a person uses substances with cannabinoids (marijuana or CBD hemp).
When a cannabinoid comes into contact with a receptor, the two interact with one another and create a specific effect as a result.
CBD, for instance, tends to bind to receptors that influence the central nervous and immune systems, giving it the ability to impact things like inflammation, pain, and anxiety.
Topical CBD is absorbed thanks to these receptors. Their presence on the skin means that CBD can bind to them without having to fully penetrate into the body, though the consequence of such a reality is that the effects of your product will be localized, not full-body.
How much CBD is absorbed through skin?
Most CBD creams and lotions do not penetrate deeply enough to enter the bloodstream in significant amounts. Instead, they interact primarily with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, producing localized effects.
Does topical CBD show on a drug test?
Topical CBD products generally do not show up on drug tests. Here’s why:
- Limited absorption: Topical CBD products like lotions, creams, and balms do not penetrate deep enough into the skin to reach the bloodstream.
- Drug tests target THC: Standard drug tests screen for THC or its metabolites, not CBD.
- Localized effects: CBD in topical products interacts primarily with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, producing localized effects without systemic absorption.
- Research support: A study found that topical application of THC-containing products did not cause positive cannabinoid findings in blood or urine.
Fortunately, with CBD topicals, there’s no need to worry. CBD itself isn’t going to be a problem on a drug test, and the fact that topicals don’t enter the bloodstream means that any THC present in them won’t linger in the body.
Does topical CBD interact with medications?
While topical CBD products are generally considered safe to use with most medications, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before combining CBD with any prescription medications, especially if you have concerns about potential interactions.
How long does CBD cream stay in your system?
Because topicals aren’t absorbed into the bloodstream, they can’t cause the same sort of build up of CBD in bodily tissue (fat, mainly) that other products might. The effects of CBD topicals may wear off within a few hours, but it really depends on how frequently you use your product.
Generally, CBD and other cannabinoids linger in the body for longer periods of time because they are partially stored in fat (and other tissue) found in the body.
Cannabinoids aren’t immediately broken down all at once when they enter the body – instead, they are slowly disposed of or build up as regular use continues.
No CBD in your bloodstream means no CBD entering other parts of your body or taking long periods of time to break down. It also means that your product can’t interact with bodily systems like digestion, sleep, organ functioning, etc., which may be a con for those looking for a more immersive experience.
Final thoughts
Topical CBD is a great option for those looking to use CBD to spot-treat pain, inflammation, or other physical discomfort. Because it doesn’t enter the bloodstream, its effects are limited to the area it’s been applied to.
It’s easy to understand why many people assume that topicals absorb into the bloodstream, especially given how misunderstood and overlooked the ECS is as both an element of CBD use and a crucial part of bodily functions.
Still, the majority of CBD topicals can’t work their way through the skin and into blood – that’s simply not how the body (or the ECS) works. If you’re looking for a product that can absorb into the bloodstream and impact your entire body, opt for options that are inhaled or consumed either orally or sublingually.
No matter who you are or what sort of products you’re looking to try out, being an educated CBD consumer can take you far. For many of us, that means ensuring that the sellers we buy from are credible and reliable, and that their products are among the highest-quality options on the market.
Finding sellers and topicals that tick these boxes can be a real challenge, though, and no one wants to waste money on products that don’t work for them.
Be sure to visit our directory if you’re looking for amazing brands, product types, and specific product recommendations. After years in the industry and with lots of personal experience under our belt, we feel confident in our ability to seek out only the best options for anyone looking to take advantage of all CBD has to offer!
FABCBD Topical Cream
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FABCBD Salve
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