CBD, or cannabidiol, has gained significant popularity for its potential health benefits, particularly in the form of topical products such as creams and lotions. As more people explore CBD for localized relief from conditions like joint pain, muscle soreness, or skin irritation, one common question arises: Does CBD cream get into the bloodstream? In this article, we’ll break down the science behind topical CBD products and how they interact with your body, as well as explore the difference between topical and transdermal CBD applications.

Understanding Topical CBD Creams

Topical CBD products, such as creams and lotions, are designed to be applied directly to the skin. These products are formulated to provide localized relief by interacting with cannabinoid receptors found in the skin’s epidermal (outermost) and dermal (second layer) tissues. The goal of CBD creams is to target specific areas of discomfort without affecting the rest of your body.

When you apply CBD cream to your skin, the active compounds in the cream work with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating various functions like pain, inflammation, and immune responses. The cannabinoid receptors in the skin can interact with CBD, potentially reducing pain or soothing inflammation. However, this localized effect remains confined to the area of application.

Does CBD from Creams Reach the Bloodstream?

While it may seem logical to assume that CBD could eventually enter your bloodstream through the skin, this is generally not the case with topical products. The skin acts as a natural barrier, preventing many substances from penetrating deeply enough to enter systemic circulation.

In the case of CBD creams, the skin’s layers—specifically the stratum corneum (outermost layer)—serve as a protective shield that limits how much CBD can actually pass through. This means that when you apply CBD cream, the compounds typically do not enter the bloodstream in significant amounts. Instead, they interact with cannabinoid receptors on the surface and within the deeper layers of the skin, producing localized effects like pain relief, anti-inflammatory benefits, or skin hydration.

For most users, this is enough to experience the intended benefits. The effects of CBD creams are typically felt only where the product is applied, and they tend to be short-term, as the CBD remains in the skin layers rather than circulating through the bloodstream.

What About Transdermal CBD Products?

While topical creams don’t generally reach the bloodstream, there is another category of products known as transdermal CBD. These products are designed to penetrate deeper into the skin, bypassing the epidermis and dermis to reach the bloodstream.

Transdermal products—such as CBD patches—are formulated with permeation enhancers. These enhancers are substances that help improve the absorption of CBD through the skin’s barrier, allowing the compound to pass into systemic circulation. As a result, transdermal CBD products can deliver CBD into the bloodstream, potentially producing more widespread effects throughout the body.

This means that transdermal products are often used for more long-lasting or systemic effects, whereas topical creams are more effective for short-term, localized relief.

CBD Cream vs. Transdermal CBD: Key Differences

Here’s a quick comparison of the two types of CBD products:

Topical CBD Creams:

• Designed for localized relief.
• Do not significantly enter the bloodstream.
• Effect is typically short-term and confined to the area of application.

Transdermal CBD Products:

• Formulated to penetrate deeper into the skin.
• Can deliver CBD into the bloodstream.
• Effects may be more long-lasting and felt throughout the body.

Understanding these differences can help you decide which type of CBD product is best suited for your needs, whether you’re looking for targeted pain relief or more general wellness benefits.

 

Pharma Hemp: A Full Range of CBD Products

At Pharma Hemp, we offer a wide variety of CBD products designed to meet different needs and preferences. Our products are enriched with various types of hemp extracts that contain beneficial phytocannabinoids, ensuring you receive high-quality CBD that can be used for both personal and professional purposes.

Product Range

Pharma Hemp’s extensive product line includes:

• PharmaHemp® CBD Oil
• CBG Oil
• CBN Oil
• PharmaHemp® CBD Paste / CBG Paste / CBN Paste
• Mikka® CBD Skin Care Products
• COSMO HEMP’S® CBD Elixir Oral Care Products
• PharmaHemp® CBD Balms
• Dr. Kent® CBD Active Creams
• PHA Nutritionals™