When you think of cannabis, you might not immediately picture creams, ointments, and gels. However, these THC creams and topicals are sometimes the best cannabis products available for managing certain aches and pains. If soothing relief is your goal and you haven’t tried THC creams or other topical products, they could be exactly what you’re looking for.
How THC creams work
When you apply THC cream, the cannabinoids are absorbed by your skin in the immediate area. For example, THC can alleviate joint pain or muscle pain in the area to which it’s applied. This happens because there are cannabinoid receptors in your skin that the cannabinoids in the topical interact with. These cannabinoid receptors are part of the larger endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS), which spans your entire body and brain and is the reason cannabis works the way it does.
However, THC creams generally do not have a systemic effect, like smoking or vaping cannabis does. Typically, these creams only work in the area to which they’re applied and don’t enter the bloodstream, meaning you won’t feel high when you use them even though they contain THC.
What is a transdermal topical?
Be aware that there are some exceptions to this general rule, though; if you see a THC cream, topical, or patch labeled “transdermal”, it means these products do enter the bloodstream and can make you feel high. Both non-transdermal and transdermal topicals are applied on the skin, but transdermal topicals contain specific ingredients to allow the cannabinoids to absorb into your bloodstream.
Most THC creams and topicals on the market are not transdermal, and transdermal products are marked as such on the label. Non-transdermal topicals come in many forms, but transdermal products are most commonly found as balms or patches.
Why try a THC cream?
THC cream and topicals are formulated to provide localized relief for your skin, joints, and muscles. THC creams help manage aches and pains. This could be from a hard workout, a long drive, twisting an ankle, the general stress of the day, or just an ongoing issue that causes discomfort.
THC creams and topicals are easy to use as well. Simply apply a small amount to the affected area and rub them into the skin completely. It’s just like putting on any sort of lotion or sports gel, and you can reapply the product as needed.
Most THC creams are also non-intoxicating, so you can use them throughout the day for pain relief without concern that you may become too impaired to drive a vehicle or attend work or school with a clear mind. Just make sure the label doesn’t say “transdermal” before using a THC cream or topical to ensure you won’t feel intoxicated after applying it.
Types of THC creams
THC topicals come in formations you’ll recognize from the beauty aisle: balms, lotions, creams, and patches.
- Balms: These topicals are generally a thicker consistency and are made with oils. These products absorb more slowly than other topicals, providing a more gradual onset of effects and longer-lasting relief.
- Lotions and creams: These topicals are generally thinner than balms with a higher water content. They typically absorb more quickly for fast-acting relief but may need to be reapplied more often if you want long-lasting effects.
- Patches: Patches are applied directly to the skin and release cannabinoids over a long period. These products are great for a “set it and forget it” type of use, providing ongoing relief and preventing the need to reapply a cream throughout the day.
- Gels: Infused gels tend to include ingredients that are cooling and are typically most effective for fitness recovery. Athletes or people who frequently work out and need support for muscle recovery and rehabilitating injuries may choose gels.
What does it mean when a THC cream has a cannabinoid ratio?
When a THC cream has a cannabinoid ratio, there are other cannabinoids in the formulation. This is common in topicals that use whole plant extract, and the most common combination is THC and CBD. Many topical products in dispensaries have both. You may also see CBG in topicals.
How to use a THC cream
When applying a THC cream or another topical, test a small amount on a section of thin skin, such as your wrist, and observe the effects. See if it achieves your desired results and make sure you don’t have any allergic reactions.
To apply a THC cream, follow these three simple steps:
- Open your THC cream and scoop or dispense a small amount onto your fingers.
- Apply the THC topical to the desired area. Massage the topical gently until it is fully absorbed. Note that this will take longer for balms than it will for lotions or creams.
- Allow the topical to soak in, uncovered, for 15 to 20 minutes. You won’t feel high if it isn’t a transdermal product, but pain and swelling should be reduced if the product is working.
Available topicals at The Plant
If topicals sound like just the thing for you, check out the selection of cannabis topicals available at The Plant. Some of our favorites include:
Ayrloom Rescue Balm: This 1:1 THC: CBD balm contains 1,000 mg of each cannabinoid. It’s made with organic refined shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax, along with menthol crystals, peppermint, and eucalyptus essential oil for a cooling sensation.
Ayrloom Restore Balm: This 1:1 THC: CBD balm also contains 1,000 mg of each cannabinoid. It is made similarly to the Rescue Balm, but instead features lavender and rosemary essential oils for a soothing, relaxing property.
Ayrloom Revive Balm: This 1:1 THC: CBD balm also contains 1,000 mg of each cannabinoid. What makes it different from the Rescue and Restore products is its bergamot, grapefruit, and sandalwood essential oils, which produce a delightful scent that’s sure to please.
We’re always adding new products to our menu to ensure we’re offering our customers the best. Let us know what you think about the above products or if there’s something else you’d really like to see on our shelves.
Give THC cream and topicals a try
If you’re managing persistent aches and pains or you need a companion following a tough workout or sporting event, THC cream and cannabis topicals could be the product for you. Stop by The Plant in Yonkers, NY to review our wide selection of topicals and other cannabis products. Not exactly sure what you need? No problem! Our budtenders are always standing by to help you find the perfect pairing. So visit us if you’re ready to take the next step in your cannabis journey.
