CBD Topicals For Skin & Pain Management: What To Look For In The MAGNITUDE Of Products
It all depends on your skin type and what you’re looking for in CBD topicals.
Researched, written by 
Amber & The Team
Updated on January 23, 2023
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CBD topicals seem ideal if you’re seeking a product that you can apply to a specific area. While CBD oil and edibles may help you manage pain symptoms, users of CBD topicals claim these products are more effective for that specific purpose. They get to work quickly and can provide long-lasting relief.
Yet when you look for CBD cream for sale, you’ll encounter products with different names. You may find CBD ointment, gel, and lotion, along with CBD cream. For new users, in particular, this can seem a little confusing, and you may inadvertently purchase an unsuitable item.
This article aims to clarify the confusion by explaining how the various CBD topicals you can find are different.
CBD Topicals: A Question of Consistency
One of the biggest differences between CBD topicals is their consistency and texture.
CBD creams, for example, have a smooth texture. You can buy non-greasy creams or opt for slightly greasy products.
A CBD ointment is even thicker than a cream. This makes it a great product if you want something that spreads further on the skin. However, please note that ointments are sticky and greasy on the skin.
As CBD lotions contain more water than ointments or creams, they are less thick and leave a little residue on the skin. Gels are similar to lotions since they contain a combination of alcohol, water, and cellulose.
CBD balms have perhaps the thickest consistency of any topical. With base ingredients such as fatty oils and waxes, they are highly concentrated and ideal for application on extremely dry areas.
Absorption Of Different CBD Topicals
When buying CBD topicals, deciding whether you want something that absorbs quickly into the skin or a product that stays longer and offers protection against the elements is important.
A CBD cream is ideal if you want a product to help with dry skin, skin lesions, or rashes. As it contains a 1:1 ratio of oil to water, cream remains on the skin’s surface long enough to provide moisturizing properties.
A CBD ointment has a 4:1 ratio of oil to water. This means it stays on the surface for a long time, ensuring maximum product absorption. Consequently, a CBD ointment is ideal if you have extremely dry skin. Likewise, balms are thick and will stay on the skin for a long time.
CBD lotions and gels contain more water than oil, so they absorb into the skin more quickly. One could argue that this means faster pain relief. On the flip side, it also means that the effects don’t last as long. Lotions and gels are suitable for individuals with normal to slightly oily skin.
Which CBD Topical Should I Use?
It depends on your skin type and what you’re looking for in CBD topicals. For instance, an ointment or balm is probably the best option for dry skin. Their thick, oil-based formulas can trap moisture and ensure your skin doesn’t dry out or get itchy. A cream is a good second choice for dry skin because it also traps moisture. CBD creams are also less greasy than CBD ointments.
A CBD lotion is a solid option for individuals with skin that isn’t too dry or oily. If you have oily skin, consider buying a CBD gel, as its high absorption rate means your skin feels less greasy. It also reduces the likelihood of acne breakouts.
Final Thoughts on the Different Types of CBD Topicals
Hopefully, this article will make it easier for you to navigate the world of CBD topicals. The product you choose should depend on your skin type and how quickly you want to feel the effects. CBD creams, balms, and ointments are perhaps the best options if you have dry skin. They keep your skin moisturized for longer due to their thicker texture. However, please note that they may take longer to have an effect compared to other products.
CBD lotions and gels are likely the top choices if you have normal or oily skin. They don’t trap moisture and absorb into the skin fairly quickly. Choose one of these products if you also want faster effects, although you should note that their effects may only last a relatively short time.
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