CBD Cream: 7 CBD Topicals, Balms, and Salves
You can get CBD in all sorts of forms — like oils, tinctures, gummies, and even creams. Ever since CBD was legalized in 2018, many people are discovering how many health benefits CBD cream can have, particularly when it comes to muscle pain and skin health.
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CBDfx
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CBDistillery
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Aspen Green
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If you’re looking to try out some topical CBD products, you may be wondering where to start. Well, we’ve got you covered. We found seven of the best CBD creams that can help relieve pain, soothe sore muscles, and improve your skin health.
Summary of the Best CBD Creams
1. Best Overall CBD Cream: CBDfx CBG + CBD Lotion for Muscle & Joint
2. Great Post-Workout CBD Cream: CBDistillery CBDol Topical CBD Salve
3. Ideal CBD Cream For Sensitive Skin: Aspen Green Relief Full Spectrum CBD Cooling Cream
4. Top CBD Cream For Inflammation: Receptra Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical
5. Most Moisturizing CBD Cream: Batch CBD Cream
6. Great Organic CBD Cream: Joy Organics Organic CBD Salve
7. Top CBD Cream For Pain: Zatural CBD Hot Cream
Benefits of CBD Cream
The main reason CBD is such a powerful ingredient is that it works with your body's natural endocannabinoid system (ECS). Since this system regulates so many different functions, cannabinoids like CBD can make sure it works as efficiently as possible.
There are three primary benefits of using topical CBD creams:
Fast-Acting Pain Relief
Pain and inflammation can be common problems for many people. What's amazing about CBD is that it can help relieve pain, both chronic and acute.
CBD creams work well for pain relief because the cannabidiol goes into the skin directly where it's applied. So, instead of waiting for a CBD product to go through your digestive system, you can get fast-acting relief where you need it the most.
CBD pain cream is ideal for both post-workout soreness and arthritis. One study showed a significant reduction in pain and inflammation within test subjects, although more research is needed to verify these results fully. Using CBD cream for pain can help soothe those sore muscles.
Alleviates Skin Conditions
Inflammation isn't just relegated to causing pain and discomfort in your body. It can also result in various skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
While a CBD product can't prevent or cure these conditions, it can mitigate their worst effects. For example, with acne, topical CBD cream seems to reduce the amount of sebum your skin produces, which is the leading cause of acne.
For CBD topical creams to work effectively, you have to use them regularly on the areas most affected by these conditions. Again, the cream won't cure or necessarily prevent an outbreak, but it can reduce the effects of the condition.
Moisturizes and Rejuvenates Your Skin
CBD can help your skin retain moisture and elasticity. So, pairing CBD with other topical ingredients can yield some incredible results. While CBD won't necessarily make you look years younger, it can help with dry skin conditions and make your skin more supple and moisturized.
Best of all, when using the best CBD creams, you can experience all of these benefits at once. However, as we'll discuss, there are a few elements to pay attention to when comparing CBD topicals to ensure you're getting the best results.
Best CBD Creams in 2023
1. Best Overall: CBDfx CBG + CBD Lotion for Muscle & Joint
This product combines broad spectrum CBD and CBG, another cannabinoid, for better results. It’s available in two different strengths, so you can find the perfect dosage for your needs.
It’s also formulated with soothing ingredients like tea tree oil and white willow bark, making it a helpful CBD cream for pain. Overall, the combination of ingredients and volume of cannabidiol make this one of the best topical CBD cream options available.
What customers love
Customers appreciate how well this product works, even for severe itching as a result of eczema. One customer wrote, "I have allergies and eczema that can drive me crazy with non-stop itching, especially at night. At 2:00am last night, in desperation, I tried this cream and was thrilled with the results. It worked great! Within 15 minutes my skin calmed down enough that I could actually fall asleep."
About CBDFX
CBDFX was founded in 2014, and it's based in California. The company makes a wide range of CBD products, including CBD oils, vape pens and juice, and even CBD + THC products. The company is highly rated with over 53,000 positive reviews and counting.
Pros:
- Available in two high potencies
- Enhances muscle pain relief with camphor, vanillin, and tea tree oil
- Organic, vegan, and cruelty-free
- More affordable than other CBD creams
Cons:
- Not as intense of an entourage effect as a full spectrum CBD cream
Specs:
- CBD type: Broad spectrum CBD
- Size: 1.7 oz
- Strength: 1000 mg, 3000 mg
2. Great Post-Workout CBD Cream: CBDistillery CBDol Topical CBD Salve
What we love
We like that this cream is made with full spectrum CBD oil, because it can sometimes produce better results than other types of CBD. It’s also formulated with other high quality ingredients, like coconut oil and peppermint oil.
We also like that this CBD cream is compact and easy to carry. Since you get the best results when using this CBD cream for pain, you can toss it in your gym bag for easy access whenever you need it. Plus, it comes mixed with other ingredients to help soothe your aching muscles.
What customers love
Customers love this CBD cream for pain because it lasts a long time, even though its concentration is not as high as other products.
About CBDistillery
CBDistillery is one of the most prolific manufacturers of CBD products. In addition to this muscle cream, the company offers a wide selection of capsules, gummies, oils, and even pet products.
CBDistillery also sells delta 9 THC, which is a legal version of THC available for purchase. However, the full effects of delta 9 THC have not been studied extensively.
Pros:
- Long-lasting effects
- Compact and convenient design
- Made with clean ingredients
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Not as much cream compared to other brands
Specs:
- CBD type: Full spectrum CBD
- Size: 1 oz
- Strength: 500 mg
3. Ideal CBD Cream For Sensitive Skin: Aspen Green Relief Full Spectrum CBD Cooling Cream
What we love
While most CBD creams are helpful for muscle pain and skin irritation, some products may bother those with sensitive skin. Fortunately, this full spectrum CBD lotion from Aspen Green is specially formulated to be as soothing as possible for your skin.
So, even if it weren't a CBD cream, you could still benefit from its healing properties. There are no synthetics, plasticizers, or harmful ingredients — just high-quality cream and CBD. The cream is also water-based, so it will hydrate your skin as it relieves inflammation.
Plus, it’s made with food-grade ingredients, so you know you’re getting a high quality product.
What customers love
Customers appreciate how well this CBD cream alleviates pain and discomfort. As a full spectrum CBD product, it can yield added benefits beyond what cannabidiol can do for your body's ECS. One customer wrote, "I use this cream every day, it helps with all the aches and discomfort. Some days it totally takes all the aches and discomfort away."
About Aspen Green
Aspen Green is based in Colorado, and the company is founded and run by cannabis-enthusiasts and physicians. The company also sells a wide selection of CBD products, including CBD oil, gummies, and pet products.
Pros:
- Physician formulated
- Non-GMO, sustainable, vegan, all natural ingredients
- USDA certified organic
- Manufactured in an FDA-regulated facility
Cons:
- May not be the best CBD cream for pain
Specs:
- CBD type: Full spectrum CBD
- Size: 2 oz
- Strength: 1000 mg
4. Top CBD Cream For Inflammation: Receptra Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical
What we love
While all CBD creams aim to provide pain relief, the Serious Relief cream from Receptra is particularly good at reducing inflammation. Part of the reason for its benefits is that the product uses a combination of CBD and other all-natural ingredients, like coconut oil.
Receptra uses a certified full spectrum hemp extract, which offers the most benefits. Combined with arnica — a natural herb with anti-inflammatory effects — users can feel immediate relief from most symptoms.
What customers love
Customers love the effectiveness and reliability of this cream for pain and inflammation relief. One customer wrote, "We have tried other products that do not work as well. Serious Relief has properties that make it last longer too. You can't beat the beautiful hint of jasmine."
About Receptra
Receptra was founded in 2015 in Colorado. The founder and CEO created the company because he tried CBD cream for his knee pain, and it worked better than most other creams available. Since then, Receptra has expanded, and the company now sells gummies, CBD oil, and capsules. Products can also provide targeted relief, such as sleep, stress relief, and relaxation.
Pros:
- Contains soothing ingredients like coconut oil and beeswax
- Ideal for pain and inflammation
- Made with all-natural full spectrum hemp extract
- Larger amount of cream compared to other brands
Cons:
- May not be potent enough for some users
Specs:
- CBD type: Full spectrum CBD
- Size: 2.5 oz
- Strength: 800 mg
5. Most Moisturizing CBD Cream: Batch CBD Cream
What we love
Just because you're trying to use a CBD cream for pain or inflammation doesn't mean you can't also take care of your skin. Batch CBD cream is mixed with all kinds of refreshing ingredients — like aloe vera and lavender oil — so your skin will feel its best, all day long.
It’s also an effective CBD cream, thanks to the high CBD potency. It’s also independently lab tested to verify quality. This way, you can feel confident that you're getting what you pay for.
What customers love
Most customers love how well this CBD cream makes their skin feel after use. One customer wrote, "The cream has helped my arthritis and moisturizes my skin well. With old age it's great to have a product that does both."
About Batch
Batch is a Wisconsin-based company that focuses mostly on CBD creams and topical ointments. The company was founded in 2018, thanks in part to the passage of the Farm Bill. Batch also works with local growers to ensure the best CBD possible for its products.
Pros:
- High CBD potency
- Moisturizes the skin with natural oils
- More affordable than other brands
Cons:
- Not as well reviewed as other products
Specs:
- CBD type: Full spectrum CBD
- Size: 2 oz
- Strength: 1500 mg
6. Best Organic Cream: Joy Organics Organic CBD Salve
What we love
If you're a big fan of CBD, chances are you're also heavily into sustainability. Fortunately, Joy Organics shares those values, which is why the company is so committed to providing certified organic products.
This cream is made with non-GMO ingredients, so you can still get decent CBD potency without any additives or synthetic extras. While this cream isn’t as strong as others, it still packs quite a punch that you'll notice right away.
What customers love
Customers appreciate how well this product makes them feel, particularly when they use it every day. One customer wrote, "I love my products. They help me sleep and are great for sport recovery after hard workouts."
About Joy Organics
Joy Organics was founded on the beliefs of sustainability and quality, and it shows in every product the company produces. In addition to CBD cream, Joy Organics also makes supplements, capsules, gummies, oils, and much more.
Pros:
- USDA-certified organic
- 90-day money-back guarantee
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Contains tree nuts
Specs:
- CBD type: Broad spectrum CBD
- Size: 1 oz, 2 oz
- Strength: 500 mg, 1000 mg
7. Best Pain Relief: Zatural CBD Hot Cream
What we love
When it comes to pain relief, we've found that creams that offer both hot and cold relief can have the best effect. Fortunately, this hot cream from Zatural provides the most soothing results we've found, which is why we believe it's the best CBD cream for pain.
This CBD cream for pain is available in two different sizes, and is formulated with pain relieving ingredients like aloe vera and eucalyptus oil.
What customers love
Customers also love how potent this cream is, with one customer writing, "The cream works better than other pain meds without affecting vital organs."
About Zatural
Zatural was founded by a healthcare professional and nutritionist, meaning each product is verified and tested rigorously. In addition to this CBD cream, Zatural also sells a wide variety of other products, including gels, capsules, gummies, oils, and much more.
Pros:
- Multiple sizes and potencies available
- Contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera
- Positively reviewed
Cons:
- Only designed for muscle pain
Specs:
- CBD type: Broad spectrum CBD
- Size: 2 oz, 8 oz
- Strength: 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg, 2000 mg
How We Picked the Best CBD Creams
With so many CBD creams on the market, it's hard to narrow down the best of the best. Since all brands, both old and new, make bold claims, we had to scrutinize each of them to verify whether they were worth buying.
So, with that in mind, here are the factors we paid attention to when looking for the best CBD cream:
Quality ingredients
A CBD cream is only as good as its ingredient list, and we prefer natural over synthetic. So, we prioritized CBD topicals that had as few fillers and additives as possible. We like creams that use water-based ingredients, as well as all-natural oils and derivatives.
Customer reviews
No matter much research or scrutinizing we do, we understand that the best CBD cream can mean different things to different people. So, we paid attention to products that had lots of reviews (tens of thousands, in some cases). This way, we can be sure that the results will be more or less universal, no matter who uses the product.
So, as you'll notice, our highest ranked CBD topicals have the most positive reviews, and the list works down from there. Since customers are the best option for verifying the effects of a CBD cream, we decided to outsource to them.
Brand reputation
CBD brands are numerous and easy to find, so we wanted to pay attention to companies with a strong reputation online. Beyond getting positive customer reviews, we also paid attention to any third-party reviews and certifications.
So, the best CBD cream is one that comes with a lot of high praise from both customers and peers, not just one that promotes itself online.
How To Find The Best CBD Cream for You
As we mentioned, a fantastic CBD topical can mean different things for different people. Some customers may use it for pain relief, while others might use it for inflammation or acne. Since CBD creams can be formulated for specific results, here are the factors to look at when comparing each option:
CBD Type
We've mentioned that there's a difference between CBD isolate, broad spectrum CBD, and full spectrum CBD. Here's a quick breakdown of what each ingredient is and why it might work best for your needs.
- CBD isolate: In this case, the manufacturer has isolated CBD from the cannabis plant, meaning the product contains no other cannabinoids. While a CBD isolate might have the highest potency, those extra cannabinoids can make cannabidiol work more efficiently.
- Broad spectrum CBD: You may be wondering, how is CBD cream legal? The answer is because it contains 0.3 percent THC (or less). However, some manufacturers choose to remove all traces of THC, just to be safe. Broad-spectrum CBD cream has no THC, but it contains all the other cannabinoids, so it's much better than CBD isolate.
- Full spectrum CBD: As you'll notice, most CBD creams say "full-spectrum." This means that the manufacturer uses the entire cannabis plant, including THC. Since the amounts of THC are so minimal, you don't have to worry about getting high from using these products. However, because THC can offer some health benefits, you get a better CBD cream overall.
Price
Unfortunately, because the industry is unregulated, it's hard to say whether pricier CBD creams are better than cheaper ones. Overall, looking at the ingredients and the type of CBD included will tell you more about the quality. So, if two creams have similar ingredients, you might want the more affordable option.
Another point to consider is that more expensive creams can simply just have more product. For example, a cheaper CBD topical might only have an ounce of product, while a pricier version has two ounces.
Potency
When looking at any product, especially a CBD cream for pain relief, you want to make sure it has enough CBD to be effective.
As a rule, the best CBD cream for pain is one that contains the most cannabidiol since it will be the most effective. However, because CBD affects everyone differently, it's hard to say whether you need that much.
If you're new to CBD products, we recommend starting small to see how it affects you and then working your way up.
Third-Party Testing
As we mentioned, the CBD industry is unregulated, so companies can make a lot of unsubstantiated claims. The best way to verify the validity of a CBD topical is to look for third-party testing.
If a cream or CBD oil has a certification from an independent lab, you can feel confident that the product contains as much CBD as it says. For example, if you’re looking for products that are made with the best CBD oil for pain, make sure it’s been third-party lab tested to verify the quality and potency.
What is CBD Cream?
Topical CBD cream is a lotion that contains high amounts of cannabidiol. Some companies will make a cream first and then add CBD to it, while others incorporate CBD into the manufacturing process.
How to Use CBD Cream
Fortunately, it's easy to use a CBD topical. All you have to do is apply CBD cream liberally to the affected area. For example, if your muscles are hurting, you can rub cream into the skin and wait for it to absorb into the bloodstream.
With high-potency CBD creams, we recommend starting with a small amount and then adding more as necessary. This way, you don't overuse your product and waste it.
FAQs
Can CBD cause any side effects?
There are no known reports of adverse side effects from topical CBD cream. At worst, it seems that CBD products may not make you feel any differently.
Is CBD legal?
Yes, CBD is legal in all its forms, either as CBD oil or as a topical CBD cream. Since the passage of the 2018 farm bill, CBD derived from hemp is legal for sale in all 50 states. However, some states still regulate the industry, so it might be harder to buy CBD products in those locations.
Can I use CBD cream every day?
Since CBD cream doesn't have any adverse side effects, there is no reason you can't use it every day. In many cases, daily usage offers the best results since you can manage chronic conditions, such as muscle soreness or arthritis pain.
How does CBD cream work?
CBD cream works by allowing cannabidiol to get absorbed into your bloodstream via your skin cells. Because CBD helps regulate your body's endocannabinoid system, it can help with issues like inflammation and pain receptors. CBD cream offers targeted relief because you can apply the cannabidiol directly to the area where it's needed most.
Conclusion
Overall, the best CBD cream is one that offers sufficient relief for your pain or discomfort. While the products listed are our top picks, you may find relief from other products, such as CBD oils, tinctures, or gummies.
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