CBD Topicals UK Shopping Guide

There are many CBD products in the market following the legalisation of hemp-derived CBD in the UK. Therefore, when purchasing CBD, do not limit yourself to CBD oil or e-liquids because most people also opt for CBD topicals. CBD provides the skin with a new unique way to deal with skincare. CBD is infused in different skin care products, for example, creams, lotions, saves, gels, and bath bombs. CBD for topical use offers the body various benefits, from easing pain to boosting skin health. The effectiveness of CBD topicals the in the UK varies due to cannabinoid profile, quality of ingredients, and potency of CBD. This article reviews CBD topicals the in the UK.

What Is CBD Topicals

Topicals are many products that users can apply directly to the skin. However, unlike other regular topicals, CBD topicals have an additional compound called cannabidiol. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical compound derived from the hemp or cannabis plant. It is the second most known after THC, a marijuana compound known for its psychoactive effect. The legal THC in the UK is below 0.2% because it is approved as non-intoxicating to the consumer. The standard CBD topicals available in the market include creams, topicals, balms, salves, oils, bath bombs, and gels.

CBD topicals are used for different issues, for example, joint pain relief, easing muscle soreness, acne, and other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The effectiveness of CBD topicals is limited but ongoing; many CBD topical users have had positive feedback after using the product for different reasons. CBD Types infused in topicals include full-Spectrum, Broad Spectrum and Isolate.

The Full Spectrum CBD

It contains all the compounds derived from the plant, including tetrahydrocannabinol THC. This type of CBD is also called whole-plant CBD.

Broad-Spectrum

All plant components, terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids, except THC.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is also known as pure CBD since it has cannabidiol alone.

Studies indicate that CBD full spectrum and broad spectrum provide more effective due to the entourage effect from all compounds, and an increase in the dosage increases the impact, Unlike CBD isolate, whose result is always constant. Before using any form of CBD product, it is best to consult a professional doctor to avoid side effects or unexpected drug interactions.

How To Use CBD Topicals

CBD topicals are designed to be used on the skin surface to provide a soothing effect for the body; before using CBD topicals, clean the affected area and let it dry; gently apply the product on the skin. The amount of CBD topical used differs from one person to the other due to the severity of the problem.It is advisable to start low and gradually increase the product to know the amount which works for you. CBD topicals can be used up to 5 times a day. Remember to read the product’s label before use.

How CBD Topicals Work

The human body has cannabinoid receptors that are highly concentrated in the skin. CBD applied on the skin activates the endocannabinoid receptors in the epidermal and dermal, thus relieving different skin disorders and body conditions. CBD topicals work best for pain and soreness because the product is applied directly to the affected area. The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) has CB2 and CB1 receptors CB1 receptors are majorly found in the central nervous system. At the same time, CB2 is located in the rest of the body, including the immune system and skin.

CBD applied on the skin can offer various benefits because it goes deep into the skin to the nerves and is thus supplied to the whole body.

The Benefits of Using CBD Topicals

CBD topicals are easily accessible because they are infused in different skin care products, including creams and lotions. They are the best option for people who have trouble taking CBD orally due to their natural, earthy taste. There are different benefits of using CBD topicals, for example;

 Recovery

CBD topical offers recovery for the skin. The products are best for muscle recovery in mind. Studies were carried out using full-spectrum CBD, containing several other ingredients from the sourced plant. The combination of different elements works best due to the entourage effect. It thus provides ultimate recovery for the body and the mind due to the relaxing and calming effect of cannabidiol.

Pain Relief

CBD is appreciated for its ability to relieve pain in the body, as stated by Überall (2020). Pain is inevitable and thus can be experienced by all people. Pain can be severe, Moderate or mild, and CBD can offer relief despite the type of pain or course. Therefore, CBD is used for treating health conditions characterised by unmanageable discomfort.

Relief

CBD topicals are good for relief in localised areas of the skin; thus, CBD topicals can provide joint and muscle relief on numerous occasions, thus providing comfort to the user on demand.

Relaxation

CBD is used topically and offers the body a calming and relaxing effect. By applying CBD, you can amp it up tenfold, especially when using full spectrum CBD because of its other ingredients, which combine efforts for the well-being of the body. You can reap all the benefits of CBD by utilising CBD body lotion. It is easy to incorporate into your daily routine because you replace regular cream with it. The ointments can be infused with other ingredients, such as lavender, geared toward general body relaxation. You will not only find relief but also restore and nourish the look of the skin and soothe muscles.

 Potentially Helps Inflammation

 CBD is touted to have anti-inflammatory properties, as suggested by Pellati et al. (2018). When CBD is applied to the skin, it interacts with the receptors. It thus turns Dow the inflammatory response by reducing the interleukins. These chemicals in the body’s immune system initiate an alarm in case of inflammation; therefore, CBD minimises the notice. Hence, CBD can treat and control other skin conditions, such as eczema,acne, and psoriasis. It reduces the appearance of swelling, lessens the redness, and may tamp down the itchiness.

Skin Hydration

CBD can be useful for treating common skin conditions symptoms, including itchiness and dryness. CBD can potentially be used for reducing triggers of dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema due to the anti-inflammatory effect. Cubed topicals help to soothe the skin and reduce the appearance of irritation. CBD is well tolerated and thus can be used by people with all skin types.

Infection

According to Gildea et al. (2022),CBD has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can treat skin infections.

Ageing And Wrinkles

Less collagen production leads to ageing signs like wrinkles and skin sagging; the signs could emanate from multiple factors, although reduced collagen production is the main cause. Collagen maintains skin elasticity and firmness. The human body stops when we get older stops; environmental factors like UV rays could also reduce its production. Toth et al. (2019) opined that CBD interacts with the collagen signalling system; the interaction stimulates collagen production and deregulates irregular activities of the Sebocyte glands; a proper sebum flow and corresponding collagen production leads reduces ageing signs. CBD's capacity to treat diseases like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and pigmentation disorders suppresses signs of early ageing.

Research on the effectiveness of CBD’s role in collagen loss is anecdotal among humans. 

Where To Purchase CBD Topicals In The UK

CBD products are widely used due to the health benefits associated with them. Therefore, there are many places you can get CBD topicals; local stores and online.

Online store

Online CBD stores allow the purchaser to buy products in the comfort of their homes. With the paying delivery fee, the product can be brought to your doorstep.

Advantages Online CBD Stores

Wide Range of Options

Purchasing CBD products from local stores, the number of products on the shelves is limited. There is an excellent option for getting the product from online stores where the products are many, and you can choose based on budget, brand, preference, and available deals. You can also purchase your topical CBD product direct from the dealer or manufacturer.

Easy Access and Convenient

While offline stores are time-limited when they are all closed down, the online store is open 24/7; thus, you can get your product anytime.Distance from your home and the local store can also be a hindrance, but with online stores, you can avoid facing any of this. Online stores can deliver the product at home compared to walking stores.

Value For Money

When you frequently purchase your products from the same online website, you have discounts and thus offer value for your money compared to offline stores.

You can Easily Research the Product Before Purchase.

Online CBD products can be researched and thus choose the best quality among many on the shelves. Although CBD is legal in the UK, many companies have ventured into the business and thus opened a loophole for counterfeit products.

Steps To Take Before Trying CBD Skin Care Products

CBD topical products are generally safe for use, as research suggests, since they make the skin look and feel different. However, it would be best to consult a dermatologist since CBD may not solve all your skin problems. Before you use or purchase the product, you need to know the following;

Test the product

 It is essential to ensure that all the ingredients in the product do not set off your skin, especially when you have sensitive skin. Start by using the effect on your arm and monitor if there will be any newborn rash before using it on the face.

understand CBD

You should have the background information on CBD oil and be sure to differentiate it from hemp seed oil. Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds, while CBD oil is from the leaves and flowers. Hemp oil has a minuscule CBD amount from it. Therefore, some stores must be sure of the product they sell.

Do your homework

The exact dosage of CBD topicals for a particular reason has yet to be determined. Therefore, it is up to you, the consumer, to try out the product to d figure out the exact amount you need for the skin issue. It is advised to start low and slow and gradually increase the amount to your satisfaction.

Shop smart.

Companies are making CBD topical products, so there are poor-quality products in the market. Studies carried out on the products from online stores were subjected to mislabelling. The consumer should take precautions by ensuring they get the best quality product from the stores. Here are some of the factors to consider when purchasing CBD topical products.

The Source Of CBD

CBD is derived from hemp and cannabis plants.Hemp-derived CBD is legal in the UK because it has less THC, a compound that alters the user's mental state. Please read the label of the product to ensure the source of the CBD in it is hemp.

The Type of CBD In the Product

The type of CBD product is essential because there are consumers who avoid some compounds in their products. Full-spectrum CBD has all the plant's compounds, including THC: Below 0.2%. Broad-spectrum CBD has all other compounds for the plant except THC. CBD isolate has cannabidiol as the only plant compound. Therefore, based on the product in the

Method Of Extraction

 CBD can be extracted from the plant using chemicals or carbon dioxide. CO2 is considered the best method of CBD extraction since it does not expose the compound to the substances leading to contamination of the product, as stated by Rochfortet al.(2020). Therefore, the product label or manual should show the method of CBD extraction. This will help you know if the product is quality.

Certificate Of Analysis

The certificate of analysis contains information about the product, the source, where the plant is grown,the type of plant CBD is extracted, the method of extraction, and if there are foreign components available in the products, such as heavy metals and pesticides.

Third-Party Testing

The manufacturer carries out third-party testing, or you, as a consumer, can have the product sample conducted before using it. This helps the consumer know all the available compounds in the products, including heavy metals or pesticides, which expose the user to risk.

 Studies indicate CBD is well tolerated because it is a natural compound band with fewer effects. However, people respond differently to the compound. Before using CBD, consult your medical doctor before taking any form of CBD because it reacts with other medications. CBD consumers experience different effects because of various factors such as;

The Potency Of CBD

 The potency of CBD is the strength of the compound. A highly potent CBD has an immediate effect compared to a low potent one.

Body Weight

People have different body weights, and the body weight can determine how the user feels the effect. For example, people with high body weights take a long for to impact the surface because the compound has to take a long to surface.

The Metabolism Rates

People's metabolism rate is different; thus, people with a fast metabolism rate experience an immediate effect compared to those with a low metabolism rate.

Method Of CBD Administration

 Different ways of taking CBD include inhaling, oral ingestion, and topical. Oral ingestion takes quite some time before the effect surface because the compounds affect the surface. This is because the compounds are subjected to the fast-pass effect; they are broken down in the digestive system and the liver before being absorbed into the bloodstream. CBD topicals are used on the skin surface and thus offer an immediate effect since they can be used directly on the affected area.

Concentration And Dosage Of CBD

CBD products come in different concentrations and amounts. Therefore, someone can have the desired effect determined by the concentration of CBD in the product and the dosage used. A person who uses a high amount of CBD will have an immediate impact compared to a low dosage. There is no exact dosage of CBD topical; thus, the consumer must take note of the amount that serves her needs. This can be achieved by starting slow and low and increasing the amount. The reason and the intensity of the problem using CBD can also determine the dosage.

Risks of using CBD

Although CBD is often well tolerated, some side effects are associated with the compound, for example, dry mouth.

• Diarrhoea
• Change in appetite
• Increased fatigue
• Skin irritation

According to Lamb et al. ( 2016), some consumers have reported drowsiness or THC-like effects due to overdose or commonly experienced by beginners. Studies on CBD and its side effects are still in their infancy stage; thus, involving a professional before taking any form of CBD product is necessary. Some studies indicate that CBD can result in liver and lung damage which are long-term side effects. Therefore, there is a need for more research on the possible long-term side effects of CBD. CBD has also been reported to react with other medications, for example, blood thinners.

FAQs About CBD

Is CBD Legal in the UK?

Yes. CBD is sold and produced under the guidelines to ensure the safety of consumers. It is legal in the UK. Food Standards Agency states that CBD products should have THC amounts below 0.2%.

Can CBD Get Me High?

CBD cannot make you feel high because it does not have THC-like effects on the body. It works by binding CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body. Although THC has a psychoactive effect when used in the approved amount (below 0.2%), it does not alter your judgment; instead, CBD and 

Should I Take Pure CBD Oil, Broad Spectrum CBD?

 Using CBD isolate, pure CBD, or broad-spectrum CBD depends on your needs. CBD isolate has cannabinoids alone, while the broad spectrum has another compound derived from the plant except for THC. You can choose what works for you based on what you want because each has its advantages.

Can I Use CBD With Other Medications?

 CBD can react with other medications, for example, blood thinners. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with the doctor be incorporating CBD into your daily routine.

Why Has My CBD Changed Colour?

CBD oil can change colour to hazy. However, this should not worry you because it happens mainly due to the compound's reaction with light, oxygen,or heat. CBD has polyphenol oxidase, which may turn into a rosy pink when exposed to sunlight. However, in this state, it is still consumable.

Can I Take CBD Abroad?

Before taking CBD, check on what custom say of the compound in your destination because laws surrounding CBD varies among states. The legal limits liquid CBD on flights. Therefore, CBD oil, creams, or liquids are subjected to the 100-millilitre rule, meaning the amount to travel with should be below 100ml. Also. THC is the main compound of cannabis which alters the mental state of the user. Therefore, the THC amount in your product should match the amount approved by the state you are going to. For example, THC below 0.2% is legal in the UK, while it should be below 0.3% in the states. Other states allow THC to mount above that.

Conclusion

 CBD is a compound derived from the hemp band cannabis plant; however, in the UK, hemp-derived CBD is approved with a THC below 0.2%. CBD topicals are legal in the UK, and they are infused in most skin care products and thus readily available in walk-in stores and online stores. CBD topicals include salves, creams, lotion, and gels. They are mainly designed for external use and thus can help with pain relief, reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and treating different skin conditions such as eczema don psoriasis. CBD has various risks, including skin irritation when used topically, which calls for an immediate stop in case of such reactions.

References

Gildea, L., Ayariga, J. A., Ajayi, O. S., Xu, J., Villafane, R., & Samuel-Foo, M. (2022). Cannabis sativa CBD Extract Shows Promising Antibacterial Activity against Salmonella typhimurium and S. Newington. Molecules, 27(9), 2669.

Lamb, R., Rohrer, J. D., Lees, A. J., & Morris, H. R. (2016). Progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal degeneration: pathophysiology and treatment options. Current treatment options in neurology, 18(9), 1-18.

Pellati, F., Borgonetti, V., Brighenti, V., Biagi, M., Benvenuti, S., & Corsi, L. (2018). Cannabis sativa L. and nonpsychoactive cannabinoids: their chemistry and role against oxidative stress, inflammation, and cancer. BioMed research international, 2018.

Rochfort, S., Isbel, A., Ezernieks, V., Elkins, A., Vincent, D., Deseo, M. A., & Spangenberg, G. C. (2020). The utilisationof design of experiments approaches to optimize supercritical fluid extraction of medicinal cannabis. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 1-7.

Überall, M. A. (2020). A review of scientific evidence for THC: CBD oromucosal spray (nabiximols) in chronic pain management. Journal of pain research, 13, 399.

Wang, Z., Zheng, P., Chen, X., Xie, Y., Weston-Green, K., Solowij, N., ... & Huang, X. F. (2022). Cannabidiol induces autophagy and improves neuronal health associated with SIRT1-mediated longevity. GeroScience, 1-20.