Health and Beauty

Many brands now make one or several of the following: CBD creams, salves, gels, lotions, ointments. Now, even mainstream cosmetic companies are looking to get in on the act, by incorporating CBD extracts into their products. In this article, we will explain why CBD topical creams have emerged from nowhere, to become some of the most popular CBD products around. We’ll also look at how manufacturers are using other natural ingredients to further enhance the therapeutic value of their products.

Introducing the science behind CBD creams

If you are unfamiliar with CBD, the compound is non-psychoactive and part of a group of chemicals known as cannabinoids. These are very rare in the plant world, but are found in abundance in strains of hemp and cannabis. The health benefits of both have been known to humans for thousands of years. But much of the science stayed a mystery until recently. Things began to change with the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This identified why cannabinoids such as CBD affect the body in the way they do. Furthermore, knowing where cannabinoid receptors are in the body allows for products to be created that work specifically with those receptors. This is the case with CBD and the skin. The skin is rich with cannabinoid receptors (both CB1 and CB2). Rubbing CBD into the skin has a regulatory effect on the ECS, similarly to how taking the substance orally does. The only difference is in how the CBD gets into the body. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, so there’s no danger of becoming ‘high’ from it. But even so, it appears that when applied to the skin, CBD stays in one area, rather than being transported in the blood all over the body.

4 reasons why CBD is beneficial in a cream

There are many reasons why people like to use CBD topical creams. These range from general nourishment to naturally treating an ailment with a plant-based remedy.

CBD has anti-aging properties

CBD face creams can be used for moisturizing purposes, and to maintain a blemish-free look. They may also help to keep you looking younger, fresher and more vibrant for longer, by putting the brakes on aging. There is a type of irreversible aging known as intrinsic aging. This is caused by a decline in production of collagen and elastin, of roughly 1 percent annually. These proteins ensure the skin holds its structure - hence why wrinkles form in old age. The other form of aging is extrinsic, and caused by external factors. Free radicals are uncharged molecules that have a pernicious effect on the skin’s DNA accelerating the aging process. Some free radicals, such as those found in cigarette smoke, are easily avoidables. Others, like those in the sun’s UV rays are more problematic. However, by lathering the skin with an antioxidant-rich CBD cream, you can fight back against the free radicals. Antioxidants stop the destruction of skin DNA, neutralizing free radicals by giving them an electron. From an anti-aging angle, CBD creams are best described as a protective shield for the skin.

CBD reduces inflammation

The immune system is the body’s greatest defence, but when things go wrong it can be our worst nightmare. Overactivity causes high levels of inflammation, which can be damaging for all of our organs, including the skin. Several skin conditions are characterized by inflammation of the skin, which is either triggered externally, or occurs due to an autoimmune disease. Treating skin inflammation is a difficult task, because of skin sensitivity. Some products don’t work and others can even make matters worse. The latter has happened on multiple occasions with alternative acne treatments, which cause the skin to become overly dry. However, researchers are developing new treatment options for skin inflammation, using cannabinoids like CBD. The CB2 receptor in the ECS can be activated to transmit signals to the immune system, tempering rampant inflammation. CBD is not a CB2 receptor agonist in itself. But the compound increases activity at the receptor by stopping reuptake of anandamide, an endocannabinoid. Cannabigerol (CBG) is an example of a cannabinoid that does bind to the CB2 receptor. This non-intoxicating compound is present in some full-spectrum CBD creams. Therefore, it’s possible that CBD topicals made with whole-plant extracts have extra therapeutic value for skin inflammation. A CBD user survey found arthritis to be one of the main conditions that people are using CBD to manage. A CBD arthritis cream would help to alleviate inflammation. It may also reduce the pain that is caused by exposed joints.

CBD is antibacterial

There is good bacteria and bad bacteria. But unfortunately, if bad bacteria starts to multiply in the skin, it can lead to infection. The effects of bacterial infection on physical health can be devastating. And it can also have a knock-on effect mentally, reducing a person’s confidence. Traditional antibiotics may help, but there is a new alternative that holds great promise: CBD. The potential of CBD as an antibiotic has not been researched a lot. But the signs are good and we know that the compound has antibacterial properties. Interestingly, scientists are unsure as to how CBD produces its antibiotic effects. This suggests we still have lots to learn about how cannabinoids work. CBD is safe for the skin and won’t cause any adverse reactions. If you’re looking for a skincare product that can cleanse the skin and tackle infections, try a CBD topical. Not to mention, CBD also boasts antimicrobial and antifungal qualities.

CBD provides natural pain relief

Many CBD topicals are marketed as pain creams, and for good reason. The benefits of cannabinoids generally for pain give cause for optimism. But recent research has confirmed that CBD alone can help to relieve pain. There’s no need for the psychoactive properties of THC. The ECS is definitely involved, as we know it modulates pain perception. This is done through the central nervous system and the CB1 receptor. CBD boosts availability of CB1 receptor anandamide, where it can administer an analgesic effect. However, the TRPV1 receptor, which is found in the skin, may also be involved. CBD is an agonist of the receptor, which regulates sensitivity to pain and heat. Pain has been one of the most tricky symptoms for scientists to get to grips with. It makes sense that the mechanism in which CBD eases pain is also complex.

Exploring different types of CBD topical

Now we have gone through some of CBD’s helpful properties for the skin, let’s look at a few different types of cream.  

CBD cream for pain

Pain creams infused with CBD are a classic topical product in the hemp-based market. Most people are already familiar with pain rubs and soothing creams, so there is instant appeal. While some benefit from taking CBD orally for pain, in a tincture or even by smoking or vaping it, this provides general and not targeted relief. With a pain cream, you can be efficient about your CBD use, only applying it to the areas where you have discomfort. CBD creams offer localized rather than all-body relief because the CBD molecules are kept within the skin. They don’t travel all over the body. There are CB1 receptors and TRPV1 receptors in the skin. Pain may also be eased by reducing inflammation via the CB2 receptor. Menthol is an ingredient that you find in some CBD pain topicals, including the ‘Green Roads Pain Cream’. Menthol provides a wonderful cooling sensation to the skin, which is great for tackling pain or even just relaxing the muscles. However, it’s advised not to use pain creams with menthol on the face, as there may be a risk of irritation.

CBD lotion

If you are looking to improve your general complexion, or want to push back against the aging process, then a CBD face cream could make a real difference. CBD is packed with myriad of benefits which protect from infection, and it’s also a good way of managing inflammation in sensitive areas. For best results, make sure to apply regularly. Any CBD-infused topical product that is intended for use on the face will be made with ingredients that are safe for sensitive skin.

CBD topical salve

Topical salves are also recommended for all kinds of relief. These CBD-rich topicals are somewhat thicker than standard creams, but the nourishing effects are great for dry skin. Salves usually smell great, too, since they are made with lots of other ingredients. For instance, the 500mg CBDistillery salve is also infused with lavender, tea tree oil and essential oils. Salves can also be used for minimizing the risk of an open wound getting infected. However, these are perhaps most commonly used for alleviating pain, too. Considering that more people use CBD for pain than for any other health issue, this is to be expected!

CBD muscle rubs

After exercising hard, it’s vital to cool down properly and to treat your body with care. One great way to heal and replenish the muscles is by lathering the skin with a CBD rub. The calming benefits of CBD are well-documented, and CBD has a similar relaxing effect on the muscles to magnesium salts. CBD is good for the bones, too, with the ECS regulating the life cycle of bones. Keeping the skin topped up with CBD should help to keep bones strong. This is really important in old age.

Buy CBD creams wholesale

There are so many properties in CBD that can help to improve and maintain skin condition. And customers have so many topicals to choose from. As the science becomes even more concrete, we should see even more growth in the cosmetic and skincare CBD markets. For an existing business or startup, there has never been a better time to get involved with CBD creams. And as CBD gets talked about more and more in the media, you’re going to see lots of people decide to take the plunge and try a product. If you want to market your own CBD topicals, the best way to do so is by buying your stock wholesale. This will significantly bring down your cost per unit, increasing your potential profits. It’s much better to do this, than by purchasing a smaller order of products at a higher price. We have a variety of CBD creams for sale in our wholesale collection. To find out more, click on the ‘Wholesale’ tab at the top of the page, create an account, and we’ll be in touch.

Final thoughts on CBD creams

CBD creams prove that you can put CBD into just about everything! This versatile compound can help us in so many ways, and it’s great to see that CBD’s potential is finally being realized. Hopefully this guide has taught you a little more about CBD creams. We’re really excited about these products, but please keep in mind that this article should be considered as informational only. If you are in need of medical advice, contact a doctor.