For more localized issues with pain and sore joints after physical activity*, topical CBD (cannabidiol) products may offer faster-acting relief because cannabinoids applied to the skin are processed differently from CBD oil drops or CBD capsules taken by mouth. Therefore, CBD topical dosage is somewhat different from recommended dosages with orally consumed products. Below is a comprehensive look at how to find the best topical CBD dosage for you.

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First, What Are Topical CBD Products

Topical CBD products are creams, lotions, salves, or oils that have been infused with cannabis extracts containing CBD (cannabidiol) and sometimes other ingredients. You can find many different types of these products on store shelves. We recommend using topicals with CBDA, the unheated precursor of CBD because CBDA absorbs better (more bioavailable) and potent compared to CBD. Our 1:1 CBDA:CBD Topical Hydrogel Cream, contains a one-to-one ratio of cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA); and each pump delivers about 20 mgs of total cannabinoids.

Different products can vary widely in regards to cannabinoid potency and carrier agents for easy application. With topicals, you simply apply the product to the area of discomfort. For example, if you are dealing with a sore knee or lower back, you would simply apply the product to the affected area. The carrier oils or moisturizers and the cannabinoids are absorbed through the skin for targeted relief.

If you have CBD or CBDA oil intended for oral use on hand, this can also be applied topically. You can simply apply the oil to the targeted area and rub it in. Or, you can add the oil to a favorite lotion or skin oil and use the mixture as your own topical. This is helpful to remember if you have skin sensitivities that require you to stick with certain products or avoid certain ingredients.

CBD Topical Dosage Recommendations

The best starting point with a topical CBD dosage for aches is around 10 to 20 mg applied roughly every 3 to 6 hours. When you apply the product to your skin, rub the area in a circular motion until the product is absorbed. For best results, you can keep rubbing somewhat vigorously until the skin turns pink or feels warm – this is a sign of increased blood flow in the area. The onset time with topicals is generally between 5 and 30 minutes, and the duration of effects can be variable.

Much like taking CBD orally, each individual may need a unique dose for the topical product to be as effective as possible. Therefore, take note of how the discomfort responds to the CBD topical dosage you use. If, after the initial dose, you don’t feel relief after about 30-60 minutes, try a second application. Because cannabinoid-based products applied to the skin are processed differently, you can apply the topical product to the skin as needed every 3 to 6 hours.

Keep in mind, you can combine topical and orally-consumed CBD products for added support.

Topical CBD Oil Dosage

If you are planning to use CBD oil topically, the same dosage recommendations apply: 10 to 20 mg. With something like Healer CBD Oil Drops which include a significant amount of CBDA, each drop contains 1 mg of total cannabinoids. Therefore, you may need 10 to 20 drops.

Dosage of Topical CBD Massage Oil

CBD massage oils have grown in popularity because they offer an added layer of relief to the massage experience. Most massage oils made with CBD do not contain as much CBD as topical products formulated for ache relief because a larger amount of oil is required for a massage. For example, a bottle of 4-ounce massage oil may only contain a few hundred milligrams of cannabinoids or less, whereas a 1.5-ounce bottle of Healer Hydrogel contains 850 mg of cannabinoids.

FAQs About Topical CBD Dosage

What does “localized issues with pain or sore joints after physical activity*” mean?

Localized issues with pain or sore joints after physical activity* refers to specific areas on the body that might experience discomfort, swelling , inflamed areas or soreness following activities or exercise.

How do cannabinoids applied to the skin work compared to those consumed orally?

Cannabinoids applied to the skin primarily affect local endocannabinoid receptors and other targets in the skin and tissues without entering the bloodstream in significant amounts. In contrast, when consumed orally or sublingually, cannabinoids enter the bloodstream to deliver system-wide beneficial effects.

Are there any potential side effects or adverse reactions when using topical CBD products?

Potential side effects of topical CBD products are generally mild and may include skin irritation, redness, or allergic reactions, and may primarily occur if someone is sensitive to one of the product’s other ingredients.

How does the efficacy of CBDA compare to other ingredients commonly found in topical products?

CBDA’s effectiveness in topical products is believed to be greater in terms of bioavailability (how well it is absorbed) and potency (how strongly it works in the body) compared to CBD. However, the efficacy of CBDA compared to other ingredients commonly found in topical products will vary depending on the specific ingredient and its intended use.

If CBDA is more bioavailable and potent than CBD, why does the Healer Hydrogel contain a 1:1 ratio of the two?

The 1:1 ratio in Healer Hydrogel is formulated to provide the benefits of both CBDA and CBD. While CBDA is more bioavailable, CBD has its unique beneficial properties, and combining the two can offer a broader range of benefits.

How long should I rub the product into the skin to achieve optimal absorption?

Gently rubbing the product in until it is fully absorbed by the skin is generally recommended to achieve optimal absorption. Rubbing until the skin turns slightly pink (more obvious in people with lighter skin) can indicate increased circulation in the skin and likely improves absorption. The exact duration for which an individual needs to rub can vary from person to person.

Can topical CBD products interact with any other topical medications or treatments?

It’s possible, but unlikely, for topical CBD products to interact with other topical medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional when combining treatments.

Is there any maximum limit to how many times a topical CBD product can be applied in a day?

CBD topicals can be applied as needed to the affected area.There’s no established maximum limit for topical CBD application per day, but users should monitor for any skin reactions and adjust usage accordingly.

Are there any specific storage recommendations for maintaining the potency of topical CBD products?

Storage recommendations typically include keeping the product in a cool, dark place and avoiding exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to maintain potency. Topicals that contain acidic cannabinoids such as CBDA and/or CBGA should be refrigerated for long-term storage to delay their slow transformation to their neutral counterparts (CBD and CBG)

If one is allergic or sensitive to certain carrier oils or moisturizers, are there hypoallergenic topical CBD products available?

While there might be hypoallergenic topical CBD products available, users with sensitivities should always check ingredient lists and conduct patch tests before full application.

What are the potential benefits of combining topical and orally-consumed CBD products?

Combining topical and orally – or sublingually- consumed CBD can provide both localized and systemic relief, potentially leading to more comprehensive benefits.

Why do CBD massage oils contain lower CBD concentrations than other topical products?

CBD massage oils may contain lower CBD concentrations because they’re spread over a larger body area and intended for a different experience than targeted ache and sore joint relief.

How long does the relief from topical CBD typically last?

The relief from topical CBD can vary, but effects typically last several hours. Duration can depend on the product’s formulation and the individual’s specific issue and body.

Are there any research studies or clinical trials that back up the effectiveness of topical CBD for ache relief?

While there are anecdotal reports and some preliminary studies suggesting the benefits of topical CBD, more rigorous clinical trials are needed for definitive conclusions.

How does the cost of topical CBD products compare to other topical alternatives available in the market?

The cost of topical CBD products can be competitive with other discomfort relief alternatives, but prices will vary depending on brand, formulation, and CBD concentration.

Can CBD topical products be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin?

CBD topical products are generally safe for all skin types, but those with sensitive skin should opt for products with fewer potential allergens or artificial ingredients and conduct patch tests.

Are there any areas of the body where applying topical CBD is not recommended?

While there’s no specific area where topical CBD is strictly contraindicated, it’s wise to avoid open wounds or irritated skin.  If the product contains menthol, avoid use on the face or other sensitive areas, and wash hands before touching eyes, face and other areas.

How long does it usually take before someone can determine the most effective topical CBD dosage for their needs?

It may take several applications or adjustments in dosage before determining the most effective topical CBD dosage for an individual’s needs. Using a product that delivers a measured amount per pump is very helpful.

How frequently should the “Healer CBD Usage Guide and Response Tracker” be updated for accurate monitoring?

Ideally, the “Healer CBD Usage Guide and Response Tracker” should be updated with each use or based on personal experiences and as one’s needs or the products they use change.

Does Healer provide other CBD products, and how do they complement the effects of the topical range?

Healer offers a range of CBD and whole plant hemp products, each formulated for specific uses.

How Do You Know How Much Product to Use for an Accurate CBD Dosage?

CBD topicals offer unique concentrations of cannabinoids depending on the product. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the manufacturer’s recommendations about how much of the product to use. At Healer, we make calculating the dose size easy: one pump gives you 20 mg of cannabinoids. It is always a good idea to stick with topical CBD products that have some way to measure the dose, so you know how much you are using during application.

Final Thoughts on Topical CBD from Healer

Topical CBD products can be highly effective for targeted relief. The key is finding the correct CBD topical dosage for you personally. Be sure to get the free Healer CBD Usage Guide and Response Tracker to help as you evaluate different CBD products and their efficacy.

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