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Cannabis topicals are products applied directly to the skin — creams, balms, lotions, salves, and transdermal patches infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Unlike smoking or eating cannabis, topicals work locally, targeting pain and inflammation at the application site without producing a psychoactive high. This makes them one of the most accessible entry points for people curious about cannabis but hesitant about the intoxicating effects.
Your skin is home to a dense network of cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB2 receptors, which are part of the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). When you apply a cannabis topical, the cannabinoids — THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and others — bind to these receptors in the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin. This localized interaction can reduce inflammation, modulate pain signaling, and support skin health without producing systemic effects.
The key difference between topicals and other consumption methods is the skin barrier. Human skin is remarkably effective at preventing most molecules from entering the bloodstream. Standard topicals stay in the outer skin layers, which is why they provide localized relief without intoxication. Transdermal products, on the other hand, use permeation enhancers to push cannabinoids through this barrier and into the blood.
Cannabis-infused creams and lotions are the most common topical products. They typically combine cannabinoid extracts with moisturizing bases like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. These products absorb relatively quickly and are ideal for large surface areas like the back, shoulders, or legs. Most creams contain between 100 mg and 500 mg of total cannabinoids per container, though formulations vary widely.
Balms and salves use a wax or oil base (beeswax, coconut oil) that creates a thicker, more concentrated product. Because they sit on the skin longer before absorbing, they provide more sustained relief and are popular for targeting specific areas — sore joints, muscle knots, or localized pain. Many athletes and physical laborers prefer balms for post-workout recovery.
Transdermal patches represent a fundamentally different approach. They use permeation enhancers to deliver a controlled dose of cannabinoids through the skin and into the bloodstream over 8-12 hours. Unlike other topicals, transdermal patches can produce psychoactive effects if they contain THC. They offer precise dosing and long-lasting effects, making them popular among medical patients managing chronic conditions.
Roll-on applicators and spray formulations offer convenience and mess-free application. They typically use a lighter, faster-absorbing base and are great for on-the-go use. Many contain cooling agents like menthol or camphor for immediate relief sensations while the cannabinoids take effect.
Cannabis bath bombs, bath salts, and soaks combine cannabinoids with warm water immersion. The heat opens pores and may enhance absorption. These products are popular for full-body relaxation, muscle recovery, and general wellness. Doses typically range from 25 mg to 100 mg of total cannabinoids per bath product.
The right topical depends on your specific needs, the area you're treating, and whether you want systemic or localized effects. Browse available topicals in our product catalog or visit a dispensary near you to see options in person.
Both THC and CBD provide therapeutic benefits when applied topically, but they work through slightly different mechanisms. THC binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors and has strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. CBD interacts with CB2 receptors and also influences non-cannabinoid receptors involved in pain and inflammation.
Explore our full product catalog for topicals, or browse strains to learn about the cannabis varieties used in topical formulations. For other consumption methods, check out our edibles vs smoking comparison or our tinctures guide.