Cannabis Topicals: Common Questions Answered

If you are new to the world of cannabis and you’ve been experimenting with topical cannabis products (or thinking about it), then you may be full of questions. To help you find all your answers in one place, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about cannabis topicals.

How Do You Use Cannabis Topicals?

One might think that “how to use cannabis topicals” seems straight forward – but this is still a commonly searched question. It is relatively simple to use cannabis topicals – just apply the THC or CBD infused lotion, cream, salve or oil to your skin. The effects are generally almost immediate, which is why cannabis topicals are a favorite choice localized relief for aches, pains and even burns.

Can Topicals Get You High?

Probably the most common FAQ about cannabis topicals is whether topicals can get you high. While vaping, smoking and edibles are all known for supplying a potent buzz after consumption, sometimes a topical will provide relief you couldn’t otherwise get. The downside? If you are looking for the body or head buzz you get from THC, then topicals aren’t the cannabis products you are looking for. However, if you want almost immediate relief from pain, topicals will be your best bet.

Will You Fail a Drug Test for Using Cannabis Topicals?

Next to wondering if cannabis topicals will allow you to catch a buzz, the next most commonly asked question about cannabis topicals is whether they will cause you to fail a drug test. In most cases, cannabis topicals don’t have enough THC in them for it to reach your blood stream through your skin – meaning you won’t likely fail a drug test from using a cannabis cream, lotion or salve. However, transdermal patches are the exception – while they are applied topically, they are meant to cross into the bloodstream and often results in a positive drug test.

Is CBD or THC Better?

When it comes to whether CBD or THC is the better option for cannabis topicals, it really comes down to personal preference – and why you need it. CBD has added benefits for our skin, binding to CB2 receptors in the skin and helping to regulate glands that control oil production in the skin. However, while CBD had anti-inflammatory effects and potentially painkilling effects as well, THC is the clear winner when it comes to pain relief in most cases. Finding a topical that is infused with both THC and CBD is likely your best bet.