Do CBD Topicals Work? [Poll]

If we’re talking CBD, there’s a lot of back and forth about whether or not it “works.” Some people adore it. Others aren’t sure why it doesn’t work for them. There are plenty of reasons as to why CBD wouldn’t work for someone, some of which may be potentially contingent on how the user is administering it. In these cases, there are ways to troubleshoot.

CBD has evolved tremendously over the past couple of years. It has made its way into various products made possible with infusions. While it is all too delightful to live in a world where CBD-infused mascara exists, I, and I’m sure a lot of others have wondered: but do these kinds of products work? Well first, it’s fair to say that there should probably be a divide between non-essential aesthetic products like mascara, and products that are made for therapeutic benefit. We’re wondering, do CBD topicals for health-related reasons work?

CBD, Currently

The fight to get CBD products FDA approved is not over. While research has been conducted, the main challenge is that the long-term effects of CBD have not yet been determined. This is mainly because a long-term period must pass to conduct such studies, even with all of the available funding and resources.

The lack of approval and conclusive information and the diverse ways CBD may be used opens the door for many questions. It seems there are too many factors to slap on a “does” or “doesn’t” work when it comes to CBD products. One critical aspect to consider is the fact that not all CBD products are intended to do the same thing with the same magnitude.

For example, topical products may vary in effectiveness from edibles. It’s all in relation to how the body receives CBD throughout. It does so by activation of the endocannabinoid system in the body. This system contains receptors for CBD, which aids in homeostasis or the balance of internal systems in the body.

Why They Might Work

The way that topicals deliver cannabinoids to the system is possibly more effective than the way edibles do. In consuming a CBD edible, capsule, or tincture, the cannabinoids are subject to passing through the complex digestive system. When your body absorbs cannabinoids this way, they’re more likely to be lost.

Topical products offer a direct connection and isolation of receptors to a localized area on the skin.

Potential Benefits of Topical CBD Products

The ability to balance the endocannabinoid system belonging to the skin is the key benefit to topicals. Overarchingly, balance to this system may help to treat, cure, or prevent associated skin conditions.

If You’ve Got Acne

For those who are prone to acne, topical CBD is worth considering for its ability to reduce oil production. When the pores produce too much oil, they may become clogged with bacteria and buildup, causing breakouts. CBD-infused creams and gels may also be more gentle on the skin’s protective barrier than more abrasive acne treatments.

If You Struggle with Inflammation

Skin inflammation can happen from mild irritation, dietary changes, or allergies. Conditions such as these cause pain that topical CBD products can help alleviate. It may also be useful for those who have arthritis, muscle soreness or spasms, or weak joints.

Chronic skin conditions may improve with the help of topical CBD. Discomfort from sunburn, eczema, psoriasis, and allergic dermatitis may decrease.

If You’re into Anti-Aging

Topical CBD products may slow the signs of aging by protecting from environmental factors. They may also work to minimize dryness and collagen loss, which both lead to signs of aging. Additionally, their antioxidant properties help to liven-up the skin.

Choosing CBD Topicals

In choosing a topical CBD product, note that there are three main categories when it comes to their composition. They’re available in full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD Isolate.

Strengths

Full-spectrum contains all the benefits of the cannabis plant with faint traces of THC. It is known as the most effective for what’s called the entourage effect. The entourage effect means all the components of the plant interact with one another, intensifying its effects.

In addition, broad-spectrum is similar to full, with the THC completely removed. Then, topical CBD Isolate products are pure CBD, with all additional plant benefits removed.

Options

It’s important to choose a CBD product that aligns with your specific needs. Here are common types of products that exist on the market and what they can help with.

• Oils and serums: Hydration and acne control
• Lotions: Moisturizer, pain relief, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory
• Transdermal patches: Continuous release into bloodstream for long-term relief
• Ointments: Extended pain relief

What to Look for

When looking for a CBD topical to try, make sure you follow these guidelines to make sure you’re buying a safe product.

Rule of Thumb #1

Find a trustworthy company. A company you can trust allows you access to their Certificate of Analysis. This is the assurance that companies have assimilated to in place of regulation. This information determines the specific contents of the product and mentions any ingredient that may be potentially harmful for you.

To stay safe, try to choose a product with all-natural ingredients only. But, be mindful of what they are, in many cases they may still affect you on an individual level.

Rule of Thumb #2

Choose a high-quality product sourced from hemp and can back up its facts. Trust-worthy products indicate the amount of CBD in the product per serving. Lack of indication is a red flag that the product does not contain much CBD at all.

A Note from GR8NESS

Remember, there’s a lot we don’t know about how CBD affects our bodies long-term. As always, we recommend you speak with your doctor before trying any new product.