Topicals and Transdermals
What are Topicals and Transdermals?
Topical and transdermal cannabis products are both applied directly to the skin. However, these products work somewhat differently. The effects of topicals are limited to the top layers of the skin, but transdermals move through the skin and enter the bloodstream, potentially impacting your entire body. (“Transdermal” means “through the skin.”)
Studies on cannabis infused topicals and transdermals are limited, but many patients report that they are effective. This makes sense, considering that we all have cannabinoid receptors on our skin and throughout our bodies. Cannabis topicals or transdermals may be helpful for treating cancer, chronic pain, inflammation, wound healing, itching, and various skin conditions. If you have never tried cannabis infused topical or transdermal products, you may want to consider them. Check out our menu to see what topical and transdermal products we have available.
Types of Topicals and Transdermal Products
Transdermal Lotion
Great for treating pain and inflammation in a localized area. It may also get into the deeper tissues that other topicals cannot. Because it can enter the bloodstream, there is a possibility of some full body effects and mild intoxication.
Coconut Oil Salve
Great for treating pain and inflammation on the skin. It may also be used as a personal lubricant to increase sensitivity and to help with pain. Our salve is made with coconut oil, beeswax, and cannabis extract.
Roll-On Topical
Great for treating pain and inflammation on the skin. It may be helpful for treating joint or muscle pain that is close to the skin. We have two kinds of roll-on topicals: a warming topical and an unscented topical.
Lip Balm
Great for inflamed or chapped lips. It may also be used on the temples to help with headaches and migraines. Our lip balm is typically seasonal and is offered during the colder months.
Topicals and transdermal products may cause a allergic reaction on the skin. Apply a small amount to the back of your hand and check for a rash before applying to other locations.
Possible Therapeutic Benefits
The anti-tumor properties of cannabinoids may assist in treating skin cancers when applied topically. One famous example was Rick Simpson, who used a potent cannabis oil as a topical to treat his skin cancer and reported a dramatic positive change in his condition. This led to him creating the RSO (“Rick Simpson Oil”) protocol for treating cancer and other serious conditions.
Itching can be caused by many different factors, whether it’s environmental, like a mosquito bite, or a medical condition, like psoriasis. Though there are limited studies to support the anti-itch properties of cannabis topicals, patients report the benefits. One study on THC found that it was effective at reducing itching because of how it interacts with the nervous system and the inflammatory response.
Cannabis is well known to help with pain relief, and cannabis topicals and transdermal products are a popular option for this purpose. A combination of CBD, D-9 THC, and THCA may help relieve inflammation, peripheral neuropathy, arthritis pain, and muscle tightness. Research is very limited, but many patients report that topicals and transdermals are effective products for relieving pain.
There are cannabinoid receptors on the surface of our skin, which explains why topicals and transdermals may be useful for treating a variety of skin conditions. Cannabis based topicals have been found to help with acne, dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory properties of certain cannabinoids and terpenes may reduce pain, redness, swelling, and itching.
The cannabinoid receptors found on the surface of the skin also influence wound healing. For injuries on the surface of the skin, the wound healing properties of cannabis topicals and transdermal products may be beneficial. In addition to the wound healing properties of CBD and D-9 THC, the terpene alpha-Bisabolol, which is found in some cannabis cultivars, also has wound healing properties.
Disclaimer: This is an educational document and is not intended to be taken as medical advice. Please consult your medical provider if you have questions related to your healthcare.
Updated August 9, 2023
