We’ve definitely come a long way in terms of how we consume cannabis. From primarily working with joints, bongs, and edibles, modern society has devised a new way to enjoy the herb’s benefits: topicals.

In case you haven’t heard about them yet, CBD topicals are exactly what the name suggests—CBD products you apply to the skin. They usually come in the form of balms, lotions, sprays, and oils, with hundreds of ranges currently available to purchase. Since topical products don’t enter the bloodstream, unlike when smoking or ingesting, cannabis topicals won’t get you high. They do, however, work well with the body’s largest organ, the skin, to provide their benefits.

Benefits of CBD Topicals

Apart from giving your lungs a break, CBD topicals have many advantages.

They’re Very Easy to Use

This is a huge advantage of topical cannabis. Simply apply your product to the affected or desired area, and you’ll feel the effects in no time. Depending on the product, cannabis topicals are usually applied more than once per day; for example, first thing in the morning, then at night—or just as-needed. No swallowing or smoking necessary—just smooth it on and you’re good to go.

They Won’t Get You High

This is worth repeating for those who aren’t fond of mind-altering experiences. No, cannabis topicals won’t get you intoxicated—even if your chosen product contains THC. Why? The substance needs to enter the bloodstream for its psychotropic properties to take effect. This is obviously not the case with topical cannabis. That said, cannabinoids are still capable of exerting localised effects on the skin, and can potentially help soothe rough, red, and sensitive skin, among other issues.

You Can Easily Make Them at Home

Here’s another benefit when it comes to cannabis topicals: they’re easy to make at home! Apart from high-grade cannabis and some natural wax, the rest of the ingredients on the list can be found in your kitchen. The great thing about homemade cannabis topicals is that you can customise them according to your preferences. And, if all goes well, you can make some extra money by selling them to your friends.

They Have a Multitude of Uses

We previously mentioned how CBD topicals are great for soothing the skin. But let’s delve a bit deeper into their uses, shall we?

• Soothe the Skin, Muscles, and Joints

CBD topicals are often used post-workout to soothe muscles and boost recovery. Even if you don’t go to the gym, topicals can still work to support healthy function of the muscles, joints, and skin. As topicals produce localised effects, make sure to apply your cream, lotion, etc. to the specific areas experiencing the issues. Even if you just want a soothing cleanse for your skin, CBD topicals can be just what’s needed—no expensive spa visit necessary!

• Spice Up Your Bedroom Life

You can definitely add “aphrodisiac” to the list of cannabis’ benefits. Studies and personal accounts describe how smoking before doing the deed can enhance the overall experience. These days, topical cannabis manufacturers have specifically developed products to spice up users’ sex lives. These products tend to come in the form of oils and sprays used as lubricants.

• Keep the Skin Youthful

Everybody wants to keep their skin youthful. Thanks to CBD topicals, that is very much possible. For this, we can partly credit the antioxidant properties of CBD, which, when combined with other natural ingredients, makes for a well-rounded and age-defying formula. This is why cannabis cosmetics have become so popular as of late. With the correct diet and lifestyle choices, this could very well be an effective supplement for retaining that youthful glow year after year.

• Great for Massages

What could possibly make a massage more relaxing or invigorating than it already is? Adding cannabinoids to the mix, of course! Mixing massage oils with cannabinoids allows for the active components to work their way deep into the skin for lasting localised results. Whether you’re looking for an intense Swedish massage or just a light rubdown, a CBD-infused massage will have you feeling like a new person.

The Different Types of Cannabis Topicals

Since you’ve made it this far into the article, we think it’s safe to assume you’re at least a little bit curious about cannabis topicals. Now, you’re probably asking yourself some questions along the lines of, “What type of topical cannabis should I go for?”.

For your sake, dear reader, we’ve narrowed it down to four categories:

1. Cannabis Skin Care and Cosmetics

Over the last few years, the beauty industry has hopped on the cannabis bandwagon. Major companies have since developed cannabis-infused lotions, face creams, moisturising products, lip balms—even makeup. And demand for these products has yet to wane. Industry experts count on CBD’s skin soothing effects to underpin products used for daily hydration, to prevent premature ageing, and to keep blemishes under control.

2. Bath Products

This is for those who enjoy long soak sessions after a tiring day at work. Alternatively, those looking to soothe the discomfort surrounding menstruation also tend to enjoy these products. Cannabis-infused bath products, such as bath bombs, soaks, and scrubs, are becoming a hot commodity. Many enjoy the herb’s soothing powers, especially when enjoyed alongside a joint in the bath. Bask in the pure relaxing power of the cannabis plant.

3. Salves, Balms, and Ointments

If you’re looking for supple joints and muscles, CBD-infused salves and balms may be your new best friends. They’re all highly concentrated, and formulated to provide relief for a sensitive, stiff, and tired body. These salves can be used daily to wake up the muscles and reduce monotonous strain, or used pre and post-workout to ease muscle soreness. You can also find formulas used to quell redness and chapped skin, and to support sensitive skin.

4. Lubricants

We did mention that cannabis is a form of aphrodisiac, making infused lubricants a natural response to this phenomenon. Given the effects of cannabinoids like CBD on the muscles, it stands to reason that cannabis lubes could support heightened sensations and more relaxed muscles during sex.