CBD lotion is the best way to keep your skin looking and feeling great. Incorporating hemp plant cannabinoids shown to offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, CBD lotion is an excellent choice for those looking to reduce discomfort, pain, and redness when other products just aren’t doing the trick.
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CBDfx
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CBDistillery
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Receptra
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But like any CBD supplement, a lot goes into finding the right product for your needs. When it comes to topical CBD creams, essential factors related to ingredients, concentration, and type are especially important.
Navigate your way to better skin health and wellness with this detailed guide to CBD lotions. From top-rated CBD products to expert buying tips, our guide ensures you have everything you need to keep your body feeling good all over.
Top Five CBD Lotions
1. CBDfx: CBD Cream for Muscle & Joint Pain – Overall Best
2. CBDistillery: CBDol Topical CBD Salve – Ideal for Beginners
3. Receptra: Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical – Supports Active Lifestyles
4. Social CBD: Extra Strength CBD Muscle Balm Stick – Ideal for Acute Pain Needs
5. Bloom: Muscle & Joint Therapy Cream – Ideal for Chronic Conditions
How Does CBD Lotion Work?
Like other skin wellness creams, CBD lotion nourishes the skin with essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. As a natural antioxidant, CBD can help protect the skin from free radical damage while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
CBD lotions are available in multiple formulations to enhance the overall effects and create a personalized experience. Some formulas are designed with a full spectrum of hemp cannabinoids that relieve pain and discomfort while promoting a relaxed state of mind.
Other CBD products contain pure CBD oil, ensuring that the targeted application of topical CBD creams or lotions is the most effective and efficient. And for those wanting an aromatherapy experience, there are also CBD topicals infused with essential oils and other natural ingredients to turn your skin wellness routine into a true spa-like experience.
But what makes CBD lotion better than creams not containing cannabidiol (CBD)?
Without CBD, regular topical creams don’t have the ingredients to stimulate endocannabinoid receptors that create many of cannabidiol’s wonderful effects. In essence, products not containing CBD don’t give you a comprehensive wellness experience that penetrates down through your tissues, muscles, and joints.
Ultimately, if your current skin routine isn’t working, it may be time to consider CBD creams. With CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits combined with the power of organic ingredients, you can ensure a full-on approach to skin wellness that leaves you feeling your best.
Best CBD Creams & Lotions Reviewed
1. CBDfx: CBD Cream for Muscle & Joint Pain – Overall Best
Pros:
- Easy, greaseless application
- Relaxing cooling sensation
- All-natural, vegan-friendly ingredients
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil profile
CBDfx Highlights
Featuring a product line rated one of the best in the world, CBDfx stands at the forefront of CBD innovation and science. Their lab-tested CBD products contain the best ingredients and hemp extracts, ensuring that any acute or chronic wellness needs you have are soothed safely and effectively.
CBD Muscle Cream for Pain Features & Benefits
The most exciting part about this CBDfx muscle cream is its easy application. It comes in a spill-proof pump container designed to provide the perfect amount of lotion for optimal relief. It’s also easy to carry and doesn’t leave any greasy residue, making it ideal for on-the-go use.
Concentrated at 1000 mg or 3000 mg of broad-spectrum CBD per 50 mL bottle, this muscle cream offers options that suit any CBD user’s needs. The lower dose is ideal if you need to maintain long-term relief, while the higher dose is perfect for acute stressors and injuries.
The effects of this CBD cream are enhanced with added botanicals such as white willow bark and natural caffeine. Together, these ingredients work to support deep relaxation and reduce discomfort in muscles, joints, and tendons, thanks to their unique flavonoid and antioxidant profiles.
Bottles are available as one-time orders only, but there is no limit to purchase quantity. All medically-reviewed batches are covered with the brand’s 60-day money-back guarantee, and free shipping is available to those who spend $75 or more.
Why We Picked This CBD Cream
When you need a topical CBD solution to help your skin and body feel its best, this CBDfx CBD cream for muscle and joint pain is the perfect choice. With a broad-spectrum profile and dedicated ingredients designed to relax and soothe soreness, you’ll be able to find relief without having to use multiple products to do it.
CBDfx CBD Cream for Muscle & Joint Pain Specs
- Effects: Pain relief, inflammation reduction, relaxation
- Concentration: 1000 mg or 3000 mg of CBD
- Main Ingredients: Menthol, white willow bark, caffeine extract
- CBD Type: Broad-spectrum CBD oil
2. CBDistillery: CBDol Topical CBD Salve – Ideal for Beginners
Pros:
- Targeted, precise application method
- Enhanced with essential oils
- Balanced full-spectrum CBD profile
- Supports multiple wellness needs
Cons:
- Unique storage requirements to ensure potency and texture
CBDistillery Highlights
CBDistillery creates top-notch CBD products designed to support the needs of first-time and veteran CBD users. Using premium organic hemp extracts, essential oils, and natural botanicals, each product is designed to deliver maximum potency and effectiveness.
Furthermore, the brand is recognized by multiple hemp industry leaders, making CBDistillery a safe choice for anyone still unsure about what CBD can do for their external health and wellness.
CBDol Topical CBD Salve Features & Benefits
This salve from CBDistillery is crafted with a balanced full-spectrum profile concentrated at 500 mg of CBD. For new users, this means a balanced set of noticeable effects that won’t overwhelm the senses.
The 500 mg of full-spectrum CBD oil combines the popular major cannabinoid with its well-known cousin THC. As a result, you can expect stimulation of CB1 receptors in the skin known to help regulate the body’s overall reaction to pain and stress.
Added essential oils enhance CBD’s effects while keeping you smelling your best, and all-natural ingredients such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil combine to create an aromatherapy experience that further supports relaxation and stress relief.
One-ounce pots of CBD salve are available as one-off or subscription orders. One-off orders qualify for free shipping when the total exceeds $75, while subscription orders enjoy up to 30% off every auto-delivered purchase.
Why We Chose This CBD Cream
New users need a safe entry point into the world of CBD, and this cream from CBDistillery does just that with its balanced concentration and precise application method. With the nourishing essential oils and botanicals, you can expect a relaxing experience that is sure to leave skin feeling its best while supporting multiple levels of pain relief.
CBDistillery CBDol Topical Salve Specs
- Effects: Pain relief, inflammation reduction, relaxation
- Concentration: 500 mg of CBD
- Main Ingredients: Essential oils, natural skin softeners
- CBD Type: Full-spectrum CBD oil
3. Receptra: Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical – Supports Active Lifestyles
Pros:
- Fast-acting pain relief
- Vitamin-rich formula
- Supports external health & recovery
- All-natural, plant-based ingredients
Cons:
- Contains tree nuts (from coconut)
Receptra Highlights
Everything about Receptra is about getting you back on track to a happy, active lifestyle. From tinctures to support your internal wellness to topical creams and lotions designed to help you recover from physical activity, Receptra is focused on enabling everyone to live life to the fullest.
Receptra Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical Features & Benefits
This targeted relief cream supports active lifestyles with a fast-acting formula that penetrates the source of discomfort. The secret to the highly effective topical is the 800 mg of full-spectrum CBD oil. With cannabinoids like CBD, THC, CBC, and CBG, you’ll have synergistic wellness support that helps reduce chronic and acute pain needs fast.
This Receptra CBD cream is infused with a heavy dose of jojoba and arnica to ensure a speedy recovery after a long day at work or an intense workout. While the jojoba works to soothe and nourish the skin, arnica helps to reduce inflammation at the surface level, making this salve a comprehensive wellness solution for even the most repetitive of injuries.
With additional ingredients such as ylang-ylang, mango butter, beeswax, and camphor, this CBD cream will surely leave skin feeling refreshed, healthy, and revitalized no matter what activity you put it through.
Small pots of this CBD cream are available in .6 oz. containers that seal tight to maintain the freshness, texture, and potency with each application.
Why We Chose This CBD Cream
A full, active life needs a full support system, and this Receptra CBD cream for active lifestyles provides the perfect balance of fast-acting effects with a soothing, nourishing blend of botanicals. With premium full-spectrum CBD oil and a powerhouse of pain-relieving botanicals, this cream is perfect for those needing extra support after a tough day.
Receptra Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical Specs
- Effects: Pain relief, inflammation reduction, relaxation
- Concentration: 800 mg of CBD
- Main Ingredients: Arnica, jojoba oil, ylang-ylang, mango butter, camphor, beeswax
- CBD Type: Full-spectrum CBD oil
4. Social CBD: Extra Strength CBD Muscle Balm Stick – Ideal for Acute Pain Needs
Pros:
- Easy roll-on application
- Near instant absorption
- Calming lavender scent
- Soothes skin on contact
Cons:
- No live online chat support
Social CBD Highlights
Social CBD’s no-fuss approach has made them popular among new and veteran CBD users. Always staying at the forefront of the industry, its premium product line of pure CBD products continues to grow as hemp plant science evolves at a rapid pace.
Social CBD Extra Strength CBD Muscle Balm Stick Features & Benefits
This CBD balm stick gives you the concentrated, fast-acting relief needed to manage acute pain or skin inflammation. The touchless application process delivers 40 mg of pure CBD isolate with each application, and the more you use, the better you feel when dealing with bumps, bruises, strains, and strains.
Social CBD’s balm stick is infused with menthol and lavender to provide a cooling, calming sensation that penetrates deep into the source of discomfort. Essential oils like coconut oil and peppermint add an aromatherapy experience while nourishing skin cells and providing antioxidant support.
As a bonus, the heavy CBD-only cannabinoid profile more comprehensively stimulates CB2 receptors in the skin. With such intense stimulation from each application, you are sure to feel the effects within minutes, making it an excellent solution for the clumsy or overworked CBD user.
Roll-on bottles are sold in 2.5 oz. bottles as one-time or subscription orders. Many customers prefer the subscription service as it offers better savings and ensures your application frequency never leaves you without this powerful acute CBD pain cream.
Why We Chose This CBD Cream
Not everyone has time to wait for the effects to kick in, which is why we chose this CBD cream from Social CBD. Its touchless roll-on application and fast-absorbing ingredients mean you can apply and be on your way to feeling better in no time.
Social CBD Extra Strength CBD Muscle Balm Stick Specs
- Effects: Acute pain & soreness relief, skin irritation reduction, relaxation
- Concentration: 40 mg of CBD per application (1000 mg total)
- Main Ingredients: menthol, lavender, arnica, camphor, coconut oil, beeswax
- CBD Type: CBD isolate
5. Bloom: Muscle & Joint Therapy Cream – Ideal for Chronic Conditions
Pros:
- Long-lasting CBD effects
- Suitable for whole-body use
- Enhanced with CBG
- Promotes better blood flow & skin health
Cons:
- High price point for expedited shipping
Bloom Highlights
Bloom uses simple yet powerful methods to ensure each product is as natural, pure, and effective as possible. The tight-knit team consists of experts in the hemp industry and is constantly working to create more powerful, potent formulations based on customer feedback, rigorous lab testing, and a never-ending dedication to quality.
Bloom Muscle & Joint Therapy CBD Cream Features & Benefits
This full-body CBD cream is designed to help address chronic conditions over extended periods of time. It does this using a super potent blend of full-spectrum CBD oil enhanced with 200 mg of CBG. Together, these cannabinoids reduce inflammation and stimulate the body’s natural healing process for longer than you would get with other, less cannabinoid-rich formulas.
Because the texture is that of a lotion and not a salve, you can apply this Bloom cream to large sections of the body for better coverage of endocannabinoid-stimulating relief and wellness. This means that no matter how large the area of pain, dryness, or discomfort is, you’ll be able to experience full-body relief with just one application.
The lotion also includes MSM and arnica for extra support when it comes to keeping chronic inflammation conditions at bay. Additionally, calendula and lavender provide a soothing sensation to the area, helping you feel relaxed and comfortable in your skin.
When it comes to packaging, Bloom Muscle & Joint Therapy CBD cream is sold in 4 oz. bottles with a convenient pump top. Single-order and subscription order purchases qualify for free shipping when the order total exceeds $50.
Why We Chose This CBD Cream
Whether you are dealing with chronic pain or just want to keep your skin healthy and hydrated, this full-body CBD cream from Bloom is the perfect solution.
Bloom Muscle & Joint Therapy Cream Specs
- Effects: Pain relief, inflammation reduction, skin health & hydration
- Concentration: 1200 mg of CBD
- Main Ingredients: Arnica, MSM, calendula, lavender
- CBD Type: Full-spectrum CBD oil
How We Found the Best CBD Creams & Lotions
Choosing the best CBD creams and lotions started with a deep dive into what makes the cannabidiol so good for target relief conditions. Our research showed that topical CBD products are most effective when they contain a high concentration of cannabinoids and are made with natural ingredients like arnica, camphor, and beeswax.
We then scoured the web for CBD creams and lotions that fit those criteria and read hundreds of reviews from real customers to find what works best. Once we had a short list of candidates, we began paring it further, combining our knowledge with industry leaders’ recommendations on what makes the best CBD creams and lotions.
In the end, we were able to choose the five CBD topical products above, thanks to their incredible manufacturing processes, reliable effects, and freedom from artificial ingredients. We are confident that with any of these CBD products, you’ll be able to find relief for your skin, muscle, and joint issues quickly and safely.
How to Pick the Right CBD Lotion for You
While it should be the case that you understand your body’s needs perfectly and choosing the right CBD cream or lotion should be a breeze, it’s not always that easy. Fortunately, with these tips from frequent CBD topical users, you’ll never have to worry about which CBD cream is right for you again.
Your needs should match the bottle size
One of the biggest mistakes people make is buying CBD creams packaged ineffectively to deal with the scope of their wellness needs. For example, if you find that you have whole body aches and pains, purchasing a small pot of CBD salve just isn’t going to cut it. Conversely, targeted relief for small areas always happens more effectively with smaller, more concentrated balms and creams.
If you are looking for a targeted wellness solution that tackles the little aches and pains that happen from time to time, then smaller jars of more potent CBD cream are called for. If full-body relief is what you are after, 4 oz. or larger bottles of lotions are where it’s at to have you feeling your best.
Ingredients do more than just make it smell nice
We all love the way our creams smell, but there are more benefits that arise from additional ingredients in the mix besides a hemp cannabis plant extract. By knowing what the ingredients do, you can better select the best CBD cream that is tailored to your needs and will help you reach new levels of wellness.
For example, menthol can provide a cooling relief to particularly achy spots, lavender helps soothe irritation, and arnica helps reduce inflammation. Beeswax provides an occlusive barrier that seals the natural oils and moisture into the skin, preventing dryness and maintaining hydration for long-term relief, while mango butter may be better for restoring elasticity and hydration.
Texture matters, so choose wisely
The texture of your chosen CBD cream should match the level of effort you are willing to put in. If you choose something that takes too long to rub in, you may find yourself not wanting to use the product at all, robbing yourself of the chance to experience the full power of the hemp cannabis plant.
If you don’t have much time to constantly apply topical CBD products packed in pumps or jars, roll-on or stick applicators can be the best way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking to target something with precision or don’t mind taking the time to apply it, then CBD salve, balm, or lotion may be just what you need.
What is CBD?
Scientifically speaking, CBD is a non-psychoactive hemp plant compound that antagonizes CB2 receptors in the body. This stimulation of these specific receptors is what creates its strong potential (and following) as a natural wellness promoter.
Among the many potential benefits of CBD, its anti-inflammatory properties have been studied the most. These properties have shown excellent potential for relieving pain, swelling, and redness associated with chronic inflammation conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, or other related autoimmune diseases.
Users not going after its anti-inflammatory benefits are most probably after its next most popular benefit; relaxation and stress relief. CBD is known to be a powerful relaxant that helps reduce cortisol levels, which in turn helps improve mood, sleep quality, and more.
If it weren’t enough that CBD on its own is so powerful, combining it with lotion ensures its effects are maximized. Rather than CBD oil or just being taken orally and processed through the bloodstream, topical application of CBD creams directly interacts with CB2 receptors in the affected areas for quick relief.
So, whether it’s in fast-acting tinctures or even faster-acting topical CBD products, the power of this versatile hemp plant compound is undeniable. And with cannabinoid science moving at light speed to help unlock more of its potential, there are sure to be more fascinating facts about what CBD can really do to improve your internal and external wellness needs.
Types of CBD Lotion
Many terms are used interchangeably when it comes to topical CBD products, but that doesn’t mean they are all the same. Just like salves have different physical properties to lotions or creams, CBD topicals can have a range of types that differentiate their potential for effects.
Full-spectrum CBD cream
Full-spectrum products contain a wide array of hemp plant compounds, including minor cannabinoids, natural terpenes, and flavonoids. The inclusion of these additional compounds is believed to help the body absorb more CBD and provide a stronger, longer-lasting effect.
Full-spectrum products are typically found more as balms and salves as the thicker texture ensures the potent dose of cannabinoids has plenty of time to absorb into the area for maximum relief. However, full-spectrum CBD lotions can also be great as they provide long-lasting full-body wellness compared to similar products.
Broad-spectrum CBD cream
The main difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD creams is that the latter lacks THC. In some ways, this could take away from the CB1 stimulation in the skin responsible for producing more intense relief, though not everyone has the same experience.
However, broad-spectrum products typically include higher concentrations of beneficial minor cannabinoids, especially CBG, CBC, and CBN. These cannabinoids are vital to creating unique effects that complement CBD’s benefits, such as relieving anxiety and promoting better sleep.
CBD isolate cream
The last option is a CBD isolate cream which only contains the single cannabinoid of CBD itself. This means there will be no additional minor cannabinoids to create effects related to mood, stress, or anxiety.
Isolate creams have their own place in your skincare routine as they provide some of the best-targeted pain or discomfort relief available. The fast-acting nature of pure CBD stimulating endocannabinoid receptors in the area makes it an excellent option for acute pain related to intense physical activity, daily recovery efforts, or skin inflammation.
How to Apply CBD Creams & Lotions
The application of CBD topicals is straightforward but not always easy. The less-than-precise dosing method ensures you can rub in hemp plant goodness but doesn’t indicate how much you need to feel results.
Make the most of your CBD topical wellness routine by following these guidelines from popular brands.
Always start with less than you think you need
They always say, “less is more”, which couldn’t be more accurate with CBD creams and lotions. Start with a small amount – about half the size of a dime – and slowly work it into the affected area for a few minutes. With the fast onset time of CBD products, you should notice the effects within minutes, and if nothing feels different, go ahead and apply a bit more.
Over time, this trial-and-error method with your favorite CBD creams will get easier as you’ll understand exactly the amount you need for every ache, pain, and discomfort. Also, remember that not all topicals will work the same for everybody since tolerance and sensitivity to cannabinoids can vary greatly. So, by starting small, you can find the perfect method for your specific needs.
Don’t use it on open wounds
While CBD creams can be great for soothing irritated skin, they aren’t medical healing ointments and shouldn’t be put on open wounds. The CBD cream could interfere with the wound’s healing process and contain essential oils like peppermint or menthol that could exacerbate pain and swelling.
That said, there are many other places you can put CBD creams, and the more specifically designed they are for a condition, the better off you’ll be. For instance, you can target chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders with roll-on gels specifically designed for those areas or use lotions to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized all over when bouts of psoriasis or eczema flare up.
Have a regular and acute CBD pain cream on hand
You may find that your favorite CBD cream for pain works better for certain areas. For instance, you may prefer an invigorating roll-on gel for your muscles and joints while using a nourishing lotion elsewhere on the body.
No matter what, having both an active CBD topical and a regular one will ensure that you are always prepared to tackle whatever pops up. Additionally, keeping the acute CBD cream in your gym bag, backpack, or purse while you have a steady stream of the regular cream will ensure you’ll never be without potential relief, no matter where irritation happens.
Other Forms of CBD
While CBD creams are a popular product proven better for handling external wellness issues, they aren’t the only options for ensuring your body is running optimally. By incorporating other forms of CBD into your wellness routine, you can maximize the effects of your topical and create positive, long-term wellness results for a better overall quality of life.
CBD oil tinctures
Tinctures are premium CBD extracts blended with carrier oils made from coconut, hemp seeds, or olives. Dropped under the tongue or mixed into beverages, CBD tinctures offer rapid internal wellness support for a variety of wellness needs, including stress, anxiety, restlessness, pain, and inflammation.
Taking CBD cream with tinctures can enhance the effects of both products and ensure you’re getting the best possible relief from your topical. Additionally, taking CBD oil tinctures regularly helps build up cannabinoids within your body for more long-term benefits.
CBD capsules & softgels
No matter how good they smell, you just can’t eat CBD creams to get the same long-lasting effects, and that is where CBD capsules and soft gels come in. Consumed just like a vitamin or supplement, these products provide daily dosing of cannabinoids to help promote balance throughout the body.
Daily doses of capsules and soft gels help the body maintain a steady amount of cannabinoids throughout the bloodstream to support long-term wellness goals. By supplementing them with CBD cream, you can get the acute relief needed for specific areas while also getting the long-term benefits of CBD supplementation.
CBD gummies
CBD oil-infused edibles in the form of gummies, cookies, chocolates, and even lollipops are becoming more popular with the rise of CBD accessibility. A great way to get a daily dose of CBD, these products offer fun and delicious ways to support your wellness routine.
CBD gummies can be taken in tandem with topical creams for an even more efficient approach to balancing external and internal wellness needs. Because CBD edibles take more time to kick in, using topical solutions is a great way to kick-start the relief and ride the wave to your optimal state of wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best CBD topicals for inflammation & joint pain?
The best CBD topicals for inflammation & joint pain are those that contain a combination of fast-acting ingredients like menthol and camphor and slow-release actives like capsaicin and plant terpenes. These work together to provide an immediate cooling sensation followed by long-lasting relief. Look for products containing full-spectrum hemp extract or isolate to get the most out of your CBD topical.
2. Are CBD topicals better than other hemp supplements?
Topicals offer an ideal way to support localized areas of the body, while other forms of hemp supplements are better for overall internal wellness. You can create a balanced wellness routine that supports both external and internal healing by combining CBD creams with other forms of hemp extract, such as tinctures, capsules, and gummies.
3. How quickly does the best CBD topical work?
The best CBD topicals usually take effect within minutes of application. However, the effects may differ from person to person, and you should be aware that your skin can build up a tolerance to cannabinoid compounds over time. Be sure to start with small amounts and apply more if necessary in order to get the desired results.
4. Is it safe to use a CBD cream all the time?
The best CBD creams are formulated with natural ingredients and are generally safe for daily use. However, if you have sensitive skin or any allergies, it’s best to patch-test the product before applying it over a larger area of your body. Additionally, remember that CBD is not meant to replace other treatments, so always check with your doctor before using any type of hemp supplement or topical CBD cream for a diagnosed medical condition.
Optimal Health & Wellness with the Best CBD Creams
From better skin to more relaxed muscles to relief from daily discomfort, CBD creams offer unparalleled results when it comes to maximizing wellness. But like all skin care and targeted joint and muscle pain products, only you can know what works best for your unique needs.
Take the time to experiment with the best CBD products on this list and find out just how powerful and beneficial topicals can be for your wellness routine.
Summary of the Best CBD Lotion
1. CBDfx: CBD Cream for Muscle & Joint Pain – Overall Best
2. CBDistillery: CBDol Topical CBD Salve – Ideal for Beginners
3. Receptra: Serious Relief + Arnica Targeted Topical – Supports Active Lifestyles
4. Social CBD: Extra Strength CBD Muscle Balm Stick – Ideal for Acute Pain Needs
5. Bloom: Muscle & Joint Therapy Cream – Ideal for Chronic Conditions
