When you think of cannabis, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Many people tend to immediately think of smoking or vaping, which are two of the most common ways to enjoy the many benefits that cannabis has to offer. Tinctures and edibles are also well-known cannabis products. Cannabis topicals offer yet another way to gain the benefits of the plant without having to put anything into your body.
How Cannabis Topicals Work
Cannabis topicals are a bit different than other forms of cannabis. Instead of being ingested, they’re applied directly to your skin to help ease pain or alleviate symptoms of skin conditions. They come in many forms, including lotions, salves, creams, balms, massage oils, gels, and ointments.
Instead of absorbing into your bloodstream, cannabis topicals absorb into your skin at the site where they’re applied. While many endocannabinoid receptors reside in your brain, your endocannabinoid system also extends to your skin. You have numerous CB2 receptors in your epidermis. The cannabinoids in a properly infused topical should find their way to the receptors in your skin to provide you with the relief you need.
What Can They Treat
Cannabis topicals are used to provide quick relief for a wide array of different issues, including such things as:
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Muscle aches
- Inflammation
- Acne
- Psoriasis
- Burns
- Irritation from bug bites, scratches, and scrapes
- Bacterial infections
- Signs of aging
Benefits
The benefits of cannabis topicals include:
- Fast, localized pain relief
- Reduced inflammation
- Antibacterial properties
- Providing the skin with vital antioxidants
- You don’t have to ingest anything
- Discreet
- There’s no smoke or vapor inhalation
Will They Get You High?
Another major benefit of cannabis topicals is that they’re non-psychoactive, meaning that they won’t get you high. Even topicals with a high THC content will not affect the way you think or act. You can use them at any time during the day for the relief you need without having to worry about them affecting how you function at work or home.
How to Get the Most Out of a Topical Cannabis Product
To get the most of your cannabis topical, you should first thoroughly clean and dry your hands and the area where you plan to apply it. Next, apply a generous amount of the topical to your skin and massage it in, using firm but gentle strokes. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent even more discomfort. If necessary, apply a second or even third coat.
When you’re done, wash your hands thoroughly. Some cannabis topicals contain other ingredients that can irritate the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Finally, to ensure that you get the most out of your experience with cannabis topicals, don’t expect a miracle cure. While topicals can provide you with pain relief or alleviate symptoms of skin conditions, you shouldn’t expect them to cure the issues. They aren’t a cure, but they can help to ease your specific issues.
If you’re looking for a discreet and effective way to treat pain or alleviate symptoms of a skin condition, you may benefit from the use of cannabis topicals. Keep in mind that topicals are made using different strains of cannabis. A budtender at your local dispensary can help you to find the best products to meet your unique needs.