Does Topical CBD Cream Get into Your Bloodstream?

What Is Topical CBD Cream?

 

CBD Cream (AKA, CBD Salve) is a type of topical product made with cannabidiol (CBD) extracts derived from hemp plants. It can be directly applied onto the skin to target specific areas of discomfort or inflammation. 
 
Apart from cannabinoids like CBD, and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD cream also contains a variety of ingredients such as carrier oils, beeswax, essential oils, and other natural extracts. Besides, companies may use ingredients like aloe vera, lavender, and peppermint extracts for additional benefits. These are skin-friendly ingredients and can nourish your skin from the inside. 
 
Users apply CBD cream to obtain both pain relief and skincare benefits. The use of CBD-infused cream is super easy. You just have to put it on the skin like any other lotion or cream. Nevertheless, you should always remember that CBD cream differs from CBD oil, or other oral CBD products, as it is designed for external use only. 
 

Does It Get into Your Bloodstream?

 

Now let’s face the big question: Does topical CBD cream get into your bloodstream? The short and simple answer is “No”. Topical CBD cream doesn’t get into the bloodstream. Even if it reaches the bloodstream in any possible way through topical application, the amount of CBD would be too insignificant to consider. 
 
Applying CBD cream is simple. You just need to take a small amount of cream and gently massage it on the area where you feel pain or discomfort. For maximum absorption, massage using your fingertips in a circular motion for one or two minutes. 
 
Topical CBD cream can only be absorbed by the dermis and sub-dermis layer of the skin. They are meant to be absorbed through the skin and interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, without reaching the bloodstream. 
 
Another reason why CBD cream doesn't get into the bloodstream is that the molecules of CBD are too large to get through the skin and into the bloodstream. 
 
However, it would be best if you don’t get confused between topical and transdermal CBD products. Though topical products do not mix with the blood, transdermal products (e.g., CBD patches) that are also applied topically can reach the bloodstream. 
 
If you want to address non-localized issues such as anxiety, stress, or non-localized pain and still prefer to use topical CBD, you should go for CBD patches. However, for localized pain such as muscle recovery, or skincare management, topical CBD creams or CBD rubs are suitable options. 
 

How Does CBD Cream Absorbed into the Skin?

 

So, how does topical CBD cream permeate our skin surface? 
 
The skin is the largest organ of the human body. The outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, is made of keratin and lipids. It acts as a barrier to prevent harmful substances from entering the body. 
 
CBD molecules in topical CBD cream must penetrate this barrier to reach the underlying tissues. Once CBD passes through the sternum corneum, it enters the epidermis. The molecules of CBD continue to diffuse through various sublayers within the epidermis. This way it makes its way deeper into the skin. 
 
After crossing the epidermis, CBD molecules reach the dermis, the inner layer of the skin. Here, they may encounter cannabinoid receptors (CB1) of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). ECS consists of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes and it regulates various bodily functions such as pain, appetite, hunger, emotion, and so on. 
 
Cannabidiol found in topical CBD cream interacts with the CB1 cannabinoid receptors and influences the ECS to block pain and reduce inflammation. That’s how CBD-infused topical cream delivers its benefits. However, some key factors may affect CBD cream absorption and its efficacy.   
 

Factors Affecting the Absorption and Effectiveness

 

A study published by Springer Journal states that cannabidiol (CBD), the main non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid in cannabis plants, hydrating, sebostatic, antipruritic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, wound healing, photoprotective, anti-fibrotic and antitumoral. 
 
This is why so many people prefer topically designed CBD to alleviate muscle soreness, joint discomforts, exercise-induced pains, and regular body aches. Besides, cannabidiol cream can also deliver great benefits to your skin as well by combating conditions like dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, and acne. 
 
To achieve these skincare and therapeutic benefits, you must ensure the topical product you’re using is of high quality and can provide the desired advantages. You’ve already learned that topical CBD cream neither penetrates too deep nor gets into the bloodstream. It works in the epidermis and dermis layer of your skin. However, the absorption process can be affected by various factors and negatively influence its effectiveness. 
 
Here is a list of factors that can affect the absorption of topical CBD cream: 

 

• Skin Type and Condition  
• CBD Concentration and Formulation  
• Application Practices 
• The Quality of the Product 

 

Skin Type and Conditions
 

Thicker skin, for instance, palms, or soles, is more likely to have a lower absorption rate compared to thinner skin areas like the face, or inner arms. 
 
Skin integrity also matters. If your skin is intact, and healthy with no cuts, abrasions, or irritation, it’s supposed to enable better absorption. And the opposite might occur in the case of damaged skin. 
 
Besides, moisturized skin may show enhanced permeability. It’s because hydration can improve the flexibility of the outermost layer of your skin. However, you should also be concerned about the side effects of CBD cream if you have sensitive skin.  
 

CBD Concentration and Formulation

 If you’re using a higher concentration of CBD, you may experience a faster absorption rate. It happens because more concentrations of CBD molecules are available to permeate the skin wall. 
 
However, some topical CBD creams also possess ingredients known as permeation enhancers. This can improve skin penetration and absorption of cannabidiol. The most commonly used enhancers are liposomes, nanoemulsions, and certain oils such as olive oil, and coconut oil. 
 

Application Practices
 

Consistent use of CBD cream may result in cumulative absorption. This way CBD gradually builds up in the skin and underlying tissues. Therefore, it may lead to more sustained therapeutic effects. 
 
Additionally, it’s also a good practice to spread out applications over time. This may allow for better absorption and utilization of CBD. Because frequent reapplication of CBD cream may saturate the skin’s capacity to absorb additional CBD molecules. 
 

The Quality of the Product
 

Low-quality CBD cream may not be absorbed properly or may take longer to be absorbed in the skin. Plus, it is not going to offer you the expected effects as well. 
 
That’s why you should get products that are tested by a third-party lab. CBD products tested by an independent lab will have an attached QR code or labeling through which you can check the lab results, known as a Certificate of Analysis (COA). 
 
While purchasing CBD cream, always check whether the manufacturer offers COA or not. Also, read reviews and feedback as well given by the customers. This will help you to choose the right product from the right CBD store. 
 

Topical CBD Cream into Bloodstream: Safety and Consideration 
 

There is almost no chance that cannabidiol cream will get into your system. Do you need to worry, though, if it gets into your system for some unknown reason? 
 
The answer is negative. You don’t need to be anxious if CBD reaches the bloodstream. If a small amount of cannabidiol gets into your body, you might not even know it. 
 
CBD compound is completely safe. However, while using CBD creams, you need to be mindful of the mild side effects such as skin irritation, redness, itchiness, or skin flaming. 
 
To avoid any potential risks, here are some things you should think about: 

 

• Always ensure product quality and legality. Purchase from reliable and trustworthy brands. Also, verify the product’s ingredients through a Certificate of Analysis (COA). 
• Don’t apply topical CBD cream on open wounds or cuts. 
• Avoid using any products contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria, or fungus. 
• If you’re pregnant or a nursing mother, do not use cannabidiol in any form. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
 

Here are some relevant questions and answers related to “Does topical CBD cream get into your bloodstream?”. 
 

How Does CBD Cream Enter the Bloodstream?   

Topical CBD cream in fact doesn’t enter the bloodstream. It doesn’t penetrate that deep! It reduces pain from localized areas as well as improves skin health. However, transdermal CBD can enter the bloodstream and help you with non-localized issues such as stress, anxiety, and so on. 
 

How Can You Ensure the Safety and Quality of CBD Cream?

Always look for products from reputable and trustworthy manufacturers that undergo third-party testing for purity, potency, and contaminants. The result of the test is called a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Before you purchase, check whether the company offers this document or not. 
 

Do I Need to Consult a Healthcare Professional Before Start Using CBD Creams? 

Though it is not mandatory, to be on the safe side, you should consult a dermatologist before starting to use CBD cream. Plus, you should avoid any CBD use if you’ve any underlying health conditions or are on certain prescription medications. 
 

The Bottom Line

 

In short, if you use CBD cream on your skin, you don't need to worry about it getting into the bloodstream. However, it’s possible for cannabidiol to enter the system through transdermal CBD products such as CBD patches. Topical CBD products don’t go too deep into the skin. They can only interact with cannabinoid receptors present in the skin and deliver therapeutic effects in certain areas where you’ve applied CBD cream.