Can CBD Isolate Be Used Topically?

In 2020, Robert Hoban, a cannabis expert, stated in a Forbes article that the CBD industry is here to stay and that cannabinoids are on the verge of being used in toothpaste, beverages, personal care products and almost anything else you can imagine and that is exactly what is happening today.

The CBD industry is one of the rapidly evolving industries in the United States since the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. Several products are being formulated innovativly, making a broad spectrum of choices available to consumers. The innovation gave rise to topical CBD, a formulation you can apply directly on your skin, which is a very convenient way of consuming CBD. Therefore CBD isolates can be applied topically.

However, the cannabis industry is still in its nascent stage, and you need clarification and to have some of your questions answered before buying that CBD topical product.

Not to worry, we got you. Here in this article, you will find answers to every question about CBD topicals, ranging from its advantages to its dosage to health benefits, precautions and possible side effects. Let's dive right into it.

CBD TOPICALS

A quick rehash on CBD, cannabinoid (CBD) is one of the components of the cannabis plant. In this article, we will be referring to CBD obtained from hemp, a Cannabis Sativa species. This is because CBD obtained from other parts of the cannabis plant is illegal in the states as it contains more than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the substance in cannabis that gives the euphoric feeling).

However, hemp was legalized in 2018 upon passing the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp-derived CBD and every other product derived from it, including CBD topicals. Thus, CBD topicals are legal in the United States.
Also, it does not contain up to 0.3% THC, which means it does not cause the "high" feeling seen upon consumption of marijuana. Therefore, using CBD topicals will not make you feel high.

Down to the nitty-gritty of the subject, CBD topicals are formulations of CBD that can be applied directly on the skin. There are several advantages of topicals over other formulations, and these include:

It is convenient: Taking CBD as a topical formulation makes it easy and convenient. You use it by applying directly on the skin and rubbing it generously. It is important to note that one of the functions of the skin is to serve as a barrier for the body from external substances. Therefore, to get CBD into the system, you have to apply generously. When the CBD enters, it binds with endocannabinoid receptors in the skin, thus eliciting its effects.

It is not taken orally: This is also a convenient formulation of CBD, especially for those who do not like the smell or for people who do not like oral medications. This is an excellent alternative for such people as it is applied directly on the skin.
It has a local effect: One of the significant effects and benefits of CBD is that it helps to relieve pain and inflammation. When you apply CBD topically, it only works where it is used, and it does not give a full-body effect where such is not desired. This local effect gives it an edge over other types of formulation.

It has health benefits for the skin: CBD is one of the next big things in skincare because of its health benefits. It helps to reduce inflammation, regulates oil production, and keeps the skin hydrated. The cumulative result of these effects is healthier skin. Therefore, CBD, when used topically, helps treat skin diseases and refresh and rejuvenate the skin. This is also a cue that you do not have to wait till you need CBD topicals for pain relief or to treat skin diseases alone. You can also regularly use its skin care products for healthier and more beautiful skin.

According to a SingleCare survey, nearly half of CBD users prefer oils/tinctures, lotions/balms, and gummies; hence, the market for CBD topicals is growing by the day.

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CBD TOPICALS?

CBD topicals have a truckload of health benefits, and their method of administration makes it a peculiar formulation.
Here are some of the significant health benefits of CBD topicals:

Analgesic properties

CBD helps to relieve pain, and CBD topicals are of even more advantage because of their local effect. It only works where it is applied, unlike oral CBD, which has a widespread impact on the body. This route of administration avoids potential gastrointestinal adverse effects, as well as first-pass metabolism.

According to Natural Medicine Journal, topical agents for treating chronic pain represent a small percentage of the total global market for prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics ($8.9 billion in 2019 out of an estimated $71.4 billion). Given the lower risk of adverse effects, drug interactions, and toxicity compared to oral treatments, topical treatments may represent an underutilized therapy.

CBD topicals help treat painful joints associated with arthritis and muscle pain, among others. It provides relief and sometimes causes relaxation, allowing individuals to sleep.

Anti-inflammatory properties

CBD, when applied topically has analgesic properties and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the affected part, it helps to lessen discomfort and reduce inflammation.

Skincare

CBD topicals are one of the hot skincare products in recent times. This is because of the numerous benefits it gives to the skin. Hemp-derived CBD used in CBD isolates topicals does not provide a euphoric feeling because it does not contain THC.

Also, CBD has antioxidant properties. This antioxidant property not only helps treat skin diseases such as eczema, but it also helps to keep the skin moisturized and refreshed and has anti-aging effects. Skincare companies can infuse CBD isolate in creams, lotions and oils.

It regulates oil production

Another skin issue CBD topicals help to treat is acne. CBD can influence how the body produces sebum, the oil produced by the skin. This oil and waxy substance produced by the skin to protect it can become clogged with dirt that comes in contact with our face and dead skin cells, thus leading to acne. In addition to controlling the amount of sebum produced by the skin, CBD topicals also help to reduce inflammation caused by acne. It reduces the redness and makes it less painful.

It has anti-itching properties

The anti-inflammatory property also extends to the anti-itching effect. This is in cases where the itching is caused by inflammation. In such cases, applying CBD isolate topicals will help to soothe and stop the itching effect on the skin.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING CBD ISOLATE TOPICALS

Because the cannabis industry is still an emerging industry and its high profit, there is a tendency for adulteration and people who want to take advantage of that with substandard products. Thus, one must tick some factors before purchasing CBD isolate topicals. Some of such factors are:

Third-party testing

CBD isolate consists of only CBD. All other components have been removed, such as flavonoids, terpenes, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). But because of the processing costs, some manufacturers may want to use impure CBD, thus the need for third-party testing. Third-party testing determines the amount of CBD on the label of the product. This is important as it regulates and protects consumers. Therefore, before purchasing CBD isolate topicals, check if they have undergone third-party testing and have a Certificate of Analysis (COA).

Brand reputation/customer review

Brand reputation is essential when buying CBD isolate topicals. What are people saying about the brand? How do people perceive the brand? This is an excellent method of evaluation because, most times, it depends on people's past experiences with the company. Also, check the company's website and cannabis social media communities for reviews.

Ingredients

Before buying a CBD isolate topical product, ensure you check other compounds used and the composition of each, especially the CBD composition. Also, check if it contains any amount of THC.

DIFFERENT CBD TOPICAL FORMULATIONS

There are several types of topical formulations, and the composition and method of use differ slightly. Therefore you must be well informed on different topical formulations. These are:

• CBD creams
• CBD pastes
• CBD lotions
• CBD salves
• CBD oil

When applied to the skin, CBD topicals take about 15 minutes before it starts working, and the effect lasts for as long as six hours. There are also CBD transdermal patches, which are used primarily for pain and are as effective as when CBD is vaped or smoked.

SIDE EFFECTS OF CBD ISOLATE TOPICALS

As with other CBD isolate products, CBD isolates topicals also have side effects, especially for someone who reacts to CBD. Some of these reactions include:

• Irritability: There is a likelihood of irritability for someone with CBD intolerance. When a CBD isolate topical product irritate your skin, it is most likely not the CBD that causes it but another substance present as an ingredient, so always check for its other components before purchasing. This is also part of the reason you should check the other ingredients when purchasing such products and getting from a reputable brand with third-party testing. It helps you to avoid adulterated products that can irritate your skin.
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness

Also, it is essential to note that some drugs react with CBD. Drugs such as warfarin (a blood thinner), levothyroxine (a thyroid drug) and grapefruit react with cannabinoids. Therefore if you are on medication, do well to confirm if you can use it while using your CBD topicals.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CBD ISOLATE TOPICALS

Does CBD isolate topicals show up in drug tests?

No, CBD isolate topicals do not show up in drug tests. This is because the substance tested for in drug tests is a product of THC, the psychoactive substance in cannabis, which is not present in CBD isolate. Therefore, you can be at rest that your drug test will come out negative.

Can a pregnant woman use CBD isolate creams?

Pregnant women shouldn't use CBD products at all during pregnancy. Although some may feel they are not ingesting it orally and may want to use it for pain, CBD is not advisable for use in any form during pregnancy. This is the same with breastfeeding. According to research, THC passes through the blood to the baby during pregnancy and into breast milk during breastfeeding. It is then advised to stay away from all forms of CBD to be safe.

Does CBD isolate from creams enter the bloodstream?

No, when you apply CBD isolate creams and topicals to your skin, it does not get into your bloodstream. It only penetrates the skin to the dermis layer, where it can bind to endocannabinoids and elicit its effects.

How long goes CBD cream stay in your system?

A 2020 study in the Journal of Analytical Toxicology found people who consumed a single dose of a standardized CBD formulation had detectable levels of CBD in their urine for four to five days after ingestion. It is hard to specify how long it stays in your body because it depends on various factors. However, if you are trying to watch out for a drug test, CBD isolate topicals do not show in drug tests.

Does CBD lower blood pressure?

CBD has been shown to reduce blood pressure, and the best type of CBD that lowers blood pressure is the CBD isolate because it does not contain other CBD compounds. CBD helps with anxiety and stress, and this is part of what can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.

Can I be allergic to CBD creams?

Yes, a few people may have CBD intolerance, and such people may experience the side effects of CBD. However, this is mainly experienced with full spectrum CBD because of the other substances they contain, such as terpenes. If you notice any reaction such as rashes, hives and swelling while using CBD isolate cream, stop the usage and get in contact with your healthcare provider.

CONCLUSION

The CBD industry has witnessed immense growth recently, and it does not look like it's stopping anytime soon. Several products are being formulated from CBD daily:

• CBD drinks
• CBD gummies and lollipops
• CBD creams and skincare products
• CBD cookies and edibles

One of these formulations that are here to stay is CBD isolate topicals.

CBD isolate topicals are easy to use, and their local effect gives them an edge over other formulations. Also, CBD topicals have so many health benefits that it is being adopted and incorporated into skincare. It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities and helps treat certain skincare conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

CBD isolate has been formulated into topicals that make it compatible with the skin because of its numerous benefits.