In recent years, cannabis-infused topicals have carved out a niche in the broader wellness industry. From salves and lotions to balms and bath soaks, these products offer an option for those curious about how cannabinoids interact with the body in ways beyond traditional inhalation or edible consumption. This article provides a clear, fact-based look at what cannabis topicals are, their most common forms, and why they’ve become a regular feature on retail shelves.
What makes topicals stand out is their ability to tap into the expanding interest in plant-derived wellness products, without some of the concerns typically associated with other forms of cannabis. Consumers who might hesitate at the idea of inhaling or ingesting cannabinoids often find topicals a more approachable option, as they’re integrated into familiar formats like creams or bath soaks. As this product category continues to evolve, it reflects a wider cultural shift toward holistic and natural personal care.
What Are Cannabis Topicals?
At its simplest, a cannabis topical is a product applied directly to the skin, infused with cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), or a combination of both. Unlike other methods of cannabis use, topicals typically don’t enter the bloodstream in significant amounts. This means they’re often non-intoxicating, even when containing THC.
According to a review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, cannabinoids have demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and analgesic properties when applied to the skin in preliminary studies. This has contributed to a rising interest in topical applications for a range of personal care and wellness products.
The Most Common Types of Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis-infused topicals have diversified considerably as consumer demand has grown. Below are the most frequently encountered types in dispensaries and specialty retailers:
Balms and Salves
Typically thick and oil-based, balms and salves are used for targeted application. They often combine cannabinoids with other plant-derived ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or essential oils.
Lotions and Creams
These water-based products absorb more quickly into the skin and are designed for broader coverage. They may contain a blend of CBD, THC, or minor cannabinoids alongside moisturizers and botanical extracts.
Bath Products
Cannabis-infused bath bombs and soaks have gained popularity for those looking to combine cannabinoids with the soothing qualities of a warm bath. These products dissolve in water, releasing cannabinoids and essential oils.
Patches
A more controlled delivery option, cannabis patches adhere to the skin and slowly release cannabinoids over time. Some are formulated to allow a small amount of cannabinoids to enter systemic circulation, but most remain localized.
Why Have Cannabis Topicals Gained Popularity?
The rise in cannabis topicals is part of a broader shift toward natural and plant-based wellness options. The global CBD skincare market alone was valued at over USD 964 million in 2022 and is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, according to Grand View Research.
Several factors have fueled this growth:
- Non-Intoxicating Appeal: Topicals allow people to engage with cannabis-derived compounds without the psychoactive effects typically associated with THC.
- Familiar Formats: Lotions, balms, and bath soaks are everyday personal care products, making them more accessible to those new to cannabis.
- Regulatory Flexibility: In many regions, topicals have faced fewer regulatory hurdles than inhaled or ingested products, opening additional retail channels.
What Does Research Say?
While clinical research on cannabis topicals is still in its early stages, preclinical studies and anecdotal consumer reports have pointed to several potential areas of interest.
A 2020 review in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology noted that topical CBD showed promise in reducing symptoms associated with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, though large-scale human trials are still needed (3). Another study published in Pain in 2020 observed that topical CBD application appeared to reduce symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in a small sample of patients.
It’s important to note that most of these findings are preliminary, and cannabis-derived topicals should not be considered medical treatments unless specifically approved by health authorities.
How Are Topicals Made?
Most cannabis topicals start with an oil-based infusion or isolate powder. Cannabinoids are fat-soluble, binding well to carrier oils such as coconut, olive, or hemp seed oil. These infused oils are combined with additional ingredients depending on the desired product type, thickening agents for balms, emulsifiers for lotions, or salts for bath soaks.
Some manufacturers also incorporate terpenes, the aromatic compounds found in plants, which may work synergistically with cannabinoids through what researchers call the “entourage effect.” A 2011 review in the British Journal of Pharmacology suggested that cannabinoids and terpenes together could enhance therapeutic effects, though more specific topical research is still required.
How They Fit Into the Modern Wellness Market
Topicals occupy a unique position within the cannabis sector. They bridge the gap between natural skincare, personal care routines, and the expanding interest in plant-derived compounds.
Cannabis topicals are frequently found alongside wellness-forward offerings like herbal tinctures, essential oils, and adaptogenic supplements. This alignment with holistic wellness trends has helped normalize cannabis products in spaces traditionally dominated by non-cannabis health and beauty items.
Looking Ahead: The Growing Role of Cannabis Topicals in Wellness and Self-Care
Cannabis-infused topicals have quickly moved from niche products to mainstream wellness staples, showing up in dispensaries, specialty retailers, and even some skincare boutiques. While much of the research into their effectiveness is ongoing, early findings and consumer interest continue to drive product innovation and category growth.
For businesses, formulators, and wellness-focused brands, the growing demand for cannabinoid-infused topicals opens new opportunities to reach audiences interested in botanical, plant-based ingredients. Even as regulations and research catch up, the market presence of these products signals a broader acceptance of cannabis-derived ingredients in everyday self-care routines, positioning topicals as a category worth watching.
