Cannabis topicals are cannabis-infused products applied directly to the skin, including balms, lotions, patches, and bath soaks, and they deliver localized relief without producing the psychoactive high associated with inhalation or edible consumption.
What Products Count as Cannabis Topicals?
Any externally applied product containing cannabis compounds, most commonly CBD, THC, or a blend of both, falls into the cannabis topicals category.
- Balms and salves: thick, waxy formulas applied to joints, muscles, and dry skin
- Lotions and creams: lighter emulsions that absorb quickly over larger skin surface areas
- Transdermal patches: adhesive patches that deliver cannabinoids through the skin steadily over several hours
- Bath soaks and bath bombs: cannabis-infused products dissolved in bathwater for full-body exposure
- Massage oils: cannabis-infused carrier oils for use during muscle and tension relief massage
- Sprays: fast-application formats used directly on targeted areas like the neck, knees, or lower back
Do Cannabis Topicals Get You High?
Standard cannabis topicals do not produce a high because cannabinoids absorb into skin and muscle tissue but do not reach the bloodstream in concentrations sufficient to produce psychoactive effects.
- Balms, lotions, salves, and creams are non-psychoactive when applied externally as directed
- Transdermal patches designed for systemic delivery are the exception and can produce psychoactive effects
- CBD-only topicals are non-psychoactive regardless of the dose or application method
What Are Cannabis Topicals Most Commonly Used For?
Cannabis topicals are used most often for localized pain, muscle soreness, and skin inflammation. Research on cannabis for joint pain is growing, and for a deeper look, see cannabis and arthritis: can it help with joint pain and inflammation.
- Muscle soreness and post-workout recovery applied directly to the affected area
- Joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the hands, knees, and lower back
- Skin conditions including dryness, eczema-related irritation, and localized inflammation
- Tension headache relief when applied to the temples or base of the neck
What Is the Difference Between CBD and THC Topicals?
CBD and THC topicals both interact with receptors in the endocannabinoid system at the skin level, but THC topicals require purchase from a licensed Nevada dispensary while CBD products are more broadly available.
- CBD topicals: non-psychoactive, widely available, used for inflammation and general skin care
- THC topicals: available at licensed dispensaries, often associated with stronger localized relief for pain and recovery
- Combined CBD and THC topicals activate the entourage effect where cannabinoids work together for enhanced results
- For a detailed look at how THC absorbs through skin, see does topical THC get absorbed into the bloodstream
How Do You Apply a Cannabis Topical for Best Results?
Apply topicals directly to the target area, use enough product to cover the zone fully, and massage thoroughly for 30 to 60 seconds to maximize absorption.
- Clean the target area before applying to remove oils that can slow cannabinoid absorption
- Apply a dime-to-quarter-sized amount and massage in circular motions for at least 30 seconds
- Effects typically begin within 15 to 45 minutes and last 2 to 4 hours for most formulas
- Reapply as needed. For a longer-lasting, smoke-free alternative, cannabis tinctures and edibles are worth comparing
Conclusion
Cannabis topicals offer a smoke-free, non-intoxicating way to target localized discomfort and are one of the most accessible cannabis formats for new and experienced users alike. Browse the full selection of topicals at Green Cannabis Co. online, or order through same-day cannabis delivery in Las Vegas or Henderson.