Your Skin On CBD: Why Salves and Topicals Are All The Rage

It’s safe to say the “fad” element of the cannabis compound cannabidiol (CBD) is fast fading. More than half a decade after the floodgates opened with The Farm Bill, you’ll be hard pressed to still find customers turning to CBD bath bombs and energy drinks. The market for novelty products quickly came and went, while the wellness market only grew for applications like pain management, anxiety, and sleep. Why? Because consumers realized – despite the cannabis connection – that the non-psychoactive compound is best used as a targeted tool.

Case in point – the rise and rise of CBD salves and topicals. These products penetrate the skin to interact with the endocannabinoid system. As a result, consumers with joint pain or arthritis can identify their problem areas and find relief from inflammation and discomfort. 

In concert with other therapeutic benefits in the salves, and not to mention likely sleep and anti-stress benefits from CBD, these products are becoming vital in the bedtime routines of millions. Let’s explore the science and best practices behind your skin on CBD.

The what and the why of CBD salves

It’s worth reiterating that CBD isn’t some sort of baseless wellness trend. Harvard Health confirms there is “moderate evidence” that CBD can improve sleep disorders, fibromyalgia pain, muscle spasticity related to multiple sclerosis, and anxiety. There is increasing data that CBD may help people overcome various addictions, and there’s also emerging research that it can help with menopause, hair growth, and even pet health.

CBD salves are ideal for those who wish to experience the benefits of CBD without ingesting it. It’s most effective for treating superficial chronic pain, muscle relaxation, and tension relief.  Consumers share that topicals and salves help them with a range of chronic pains – from arthritis to muscle soreness and post-workout recovery, insomnia, migraines, and menstrual cramps. In a nutshell, it’s an easy and convenient way to absorb CBD through the skin and relax your muscles, particularly before bed.

The secret sauce of salves is how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to relieve tension and soothe inflammation. If you’re suffering from arthritis and joint pain, for example, topical application of these products is a good bet. Even athletes anecdotally report faster, easier recovery from pain and inflammation with the assistance of CBD – particularly promising given that other studies find the compound doesn’t appear to impair aerobic exercise performance.

Keep in mind: red tape is only recently falling away in this field. Additional time, resources, and focus should reveal more concrete and peer-reviewed evidence about CBD’s effects on the body. 

A new nighttime wellness routine

Many are turning to CBD salves as part of their new nighttime wellness routine because they can help alleviate some physical ailments while also promoting mental relaxation. 

When applied before bed, CBD salves work particularly well on muscle tension that accumulates throughout the day. The compound’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the physical stress stored in your shoulders, neck, and back, common problem areas for desk workers and active individuals alike. As you massage the salve into tight spots, you’re not just delivering CBD to localized pain points but engaging in the therapeutic act of self-massage, which further promotes muscle relaxation and prepares your body for restorative sleep.

This is backed up by other benefits delivered by what’s called “the entourage effect”. Quality salves containing additional cannabinoids like CBG and natural terpenes work synergistically to amplify both the pain-relieving and calming effects, meaning you’re getting enhanced therapeutic benefits compared to CBD alone. Taken together, researchers believe CBD salves can be a crucial sleep aid tool that’s just as effective as melatonin. This matters for public health since approximately one in three adults isn’t getting the recommended amount of uninterrupted nightly sleep.

Again, salves can also benefit your skin if – and it’s a big if – they come from a good producer. Some products also contain a blend of beneficial ingredients, including organic grapeseed oil, beeswax, and eucalyptus oil, which soothe the skin while delivering CBD. But, it’s up to consumers to tread carefully and select products consciously given the current state of this emerging market.

Be careful what you buy

Unfortunately, there remains a gap between CBD products and regulation, creating space for bad actors to cut corners. Research shows that less than half of CBD brands test the majority of their products for potency, with 60% of products failing to match their labeled CBD content. Even more concerning, other studies reveal that 40% of CBD products contain dangerous levels of pesticides and heavy metals that exceed legal limits. It goes without saying these contaminants can pose serious health risks, particularly when applied directly to your skin through topicals. The good news? These issues can be avoided by cautiously selecting your provider. Don’t be swayed by rock-bottom prices, preference those with good reviews and proven safety and testing track records.

Additionally, ingredient quality becomes even more critical since you’re applying salves directly to your largest organ. Cheap producers often use harsh extraction methods or synthetic additives that can irritate sensitive skin or cause allergic reactions. Quality salves, by contrast, should contain organic carrier oils and essential oils that complement CBD’s effects. Therefore, carefully read the recipes and look for products with USDA organic and third-party lab certifications. This can help assure that what goes on your skin is pure, potent, and safe for nightly use.

My advice? Be aware but don’t be scared of this market reality. Regular users of salves and topicals swear by the anti-inflammatory and relaxation benefits, even if they need to keep a close eye on the producers and products. Better yet, backed by the right provider, CBD is proven non-toxic and completely safe. Improved sleep, relaxed muscles, and general improved wellness awaits.

This article is by Scott Mazza, Co-Founder of Vitality CBD and Certified Headies