How to Apply CBD Cream to Your Body

Given the incredible and intense research on hemp-derived CBD, CBD topicals have surfaced as efficacious products for boosting skin health. The article below explores the ideal way to apply CBD creams.

Over the years, cannabidiol has gained popularity due to its latent benefits in treating several conditions ranging from skincare to chronic pain. CBD is packaged in various forms, such as capsules, creams, oils, and gummies. As the name suggests, CBD topicals are used for topical skin conditions such as dermatitis or to help alleviate pain. CBD cream is a mixture of water and CBD oil but in equal portions. This article explains how one can apply CBD cream to the body.

Applying CBD Cream

Decide Location

According to  Eskander et al. (2020), the location of applying CBD topicals hugely depends on the condition being treated. CBD creams are excellent for treating body sores, especially in the neck and shoulders, since it helps to reduce pain and inflammation affiliated with soreness and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Defining the source of pain is essential in treating the area under pain.

Clean the Targeted Area

When using any topical product, it is vital to ensure the targeted area is clean and dry; working with a clean and dry spot is critical to ensure the easy absorption of the product. To clean the place, dab some soap on a washcloth and gently wash the area, rinse and pat with a clean towel or washcloth. If the targeted area has an open wound, avoid dabbing any product until it heals. Therefore, it is better to ensure the damage is clean and dry to prevent infections and germs.

Wash Your Hands

Clean hands are paramount while handling topical products. Human hands carry tons of germs, and when they contact any product, they may contaminate it. It is essential to ensure one's hands are clean before handling a CBD cream. Washing the hands is a necessary step before and after holding the cream. Most CBD topicals, CBD creams, are infused with ingredients such as;

• Triethanolamine salicylate
• Citrus
• Pepper
• Menthol
• Methyl salicylate
• Camphor

These products are sensitive to specific body areas like the mouth, nose, and eyes. Therefore, one must clean hands with mild soap and water to avoid getting these ingredients to other body areas.

Read the Packaging

According to Rathi & D'Souza (2012), topical products have detailed guidelines on how to use them. Often, the packaging lists the right amount to use and the frequency of use based on the specific condition being addressed. A good example is CBD lotions which necessitate a small amount due to their runny consistency. For CBD creams, given that they are intended for use on larger areas like the muscles and joints, they are used generously. If the brand of CBD cream has not included the instructions on the packaging, one can look up their website or get in touch with their customer service lines. Another factor to consider is that CBD works better when used quantifiably. This way, it will last longer, especially for people who use them in conjunction with other topical products.

Apply in Circular Motions

Dermatologists typically advise using a topical product in circular motions. It is a mild form of massage and helps the product absorb the skin. Another benefit of using circular motions when applying products is that it boosts blood circulation and helps drain the lymphatic system while distributing the cannabinoids to a broader surface area. CBD creams merge with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system in the targeted area. Before applying any topical product, it is vital to perform a patch test to ensure that it does not cause a skin flare-up. Before application, it is crucial to rub the product between the hands. It causes friction, generating heat that boosts a product's absorption rate.

Re-apply

Like any topical product, it is vital to ensure the product is absorbed into the skin for maximum effects. For CBD creams, it is essential that one re-applies the product at steady intervals throughout the day. However, one should consult a dermatologist on the frequency of use and re-application.

Do Not Expect Instant Relief

Most topical products do not offer instant relief, especially for individuals suffering from chronic pain. The symptoms may be bearable, but for continuous improvement, one may need to use the product regularly for an extended period.

Benefits of Using CBD Creams

According to Giacoppo et al. (2015), CBD derived from hemp has many benefits when used on the skin. They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, it is no wonder that many companies offer CBD topical products like CBD creams for pain relief. Such products target muscle soreness due to strenuous exercises like athletes or frequent gym goers. Holt, Poklis & Peace (2021) explained that CBD creams are often infused with additives like menthol for cooling effects and capsicum for warm products. Menthol and capsicum are common ingredients in most topicals designed for pain relief since they combat inflammation and discomfort and, in most cases, as a preventive remedy for aching muscles.

One advantage of CBD creams is their ease of use. Even though CBD creams have a thick consistency, they are easily applicable to the skin and are also the best for moisturizing the skin. Typically, CBD creams are infused with vitamins, valuable acids, and hydrating oils. They ease inflammation and offer myriad benefits to the skin. Additionally, CBD creams are infused with essential oils, which, despite boosting the scent of the products, also improve the effects of dry skin.

Side Effects of CBD Creams

Even though most people have a high tolerance for CBD with regular use, some people are met with side effects from using CBD creams. Some of the benefits include;

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Gastrointestinal problems

Conclusion

Considering the fantastic and extensive study on CBD extracted from hemp, CBD topicals have emerged as effective treatments for improving skin health. Cannabidiol has grown in popularity over time due to its potential to cure various ailments, from skincare to severe pain. CBD is offered in multiple products, including candies, lotions, oils, and capsules. As the name implies, CBD topicals are intended to treat localized skin disorders like dermatitis or to reduce discomfort. Equal parts of water and CBD oil are combined to make CBD cream.

References

Eskander, J. P., Spall, J., Spall, A., Shah, R. V., & Kaye, A. D. (2020). Cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment of acute and chronic back pain: A case series and literature review. J Opioid Manag, 16(3), 215-8.

Giacoppo, S., Galuppo, M., Pollastro, F., Grassi, G., Bramanti, P., & Mazzon, E. (2015). A new formulation of cannabidiol in cream shows therapeutic effects in a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. DARU Journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 23(1), 1-17.

Holt, A., Poklis, J. L., & Peace, M. R. (2021). A retrospective analysis of chemical constituents in regulated and unregulated e-cigarette liquids. Frontiers in chemistry, 854.

Rathi, S. K., & D'Souza, P. (2012). Rational and ethical use of topical corticosteroids based on safety and efficacy. Indian journal of dermatology, 57(4), 251.