CBD cream is a popular and versatile product that has been gaining attention for its many wellness benefits. The body’s endocannabinoid system plays a significant role in regulating pain sensation. When applied topically, the CBD in CBD oil cream interacts with endocannabinoid receptors to reduce pain signals and inflammation. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain or seeking temporary pain relief, topical CBD cream is a great choice.
As someone who values convenience, quality, and value, I know how important it is to find products that meet your needs and fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. I also know how difficult it can be to find the right CBD cream in such a crowded market. In this article, I’m going to introduce you to five of the best CBD cream products for pain management and enhanced skin health.
With these carefully chosen topical CBD products, you can enjoy CBD's pain-relieving and skin-improving advantages, along with the added benefits of automatic deliveries and excellent value.
Summary of the Best CBD Creams
- Best Overall: CBDfx CBG + CBD Lotion for Muscle and Joints
- Best for Muscle Soreness: Soul Rapid Relief Cream
- Best for Fast Relief: Aspen Green Full-Spectrum CBD Relief Cooling Cream
- Best Value: Medterra Rapid Recovery Cream
- Best for Skin Health: CBDistillery CBD Balm
Potential Benefits of CBD Cream
CBD is one of the most prominent compounds found in the cannabis plant. While research into this cannabinoid is ongoing, early and anecdotal evidence suggests CBD may offer a range of wellness benefits. CBD creams, in particular, can offer advantages that extend beyond pain relief alone. These are some of the potential perks of using CBD topicals.
- Pain relief: CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors, changing the way the body perceives pain. In a 2020 study, CBD was shown to provide significant pain relief in patients struggling with neuropathic pain.
- Inflammation reduction: Inflammation is a root cause of many types of pain, including joint discomfort associated with arthritis. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce swelling as well as pain resulting from inflammation.
- Improved skin health: CBD can help soothe and manage skin inflammation caused by psoriasis, eczema, or acne. There’s evidence suggesting CBD topicals may hydrate dry skin and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, CBD products are rich in essential fatty acids, like omega-6 and omega-9, and have antioxidant properties, which can benefit the skin.
- Increased mobility: Staying active is key to staying healthy; however, pain and inflammation can make it difficult to engage in physical activities. By providing effective pain relief and reducing swelling, CBD topicals can make it easier to move around, which can have a positive impact on your mental and physical health.
- Sleep support: Joint pain, neuropathic pain, and other types of physical discomfort can make it difficult to get comfortable and fall asleep. By delivering targeted relief to the areas that need it most, CBD topicals can help users relax and drift off into a peaceful slumber.
Best CBD Creams
1. Best Overall: CBDfx CBG + CBD Lotion for Muscles and Joints
What we love:
CBDfx CBG + CBD Lotion for Muscles and Joints features a powerful blend of broad-spectrum CBD oil and botanical ingredients for deep, penetrating alleviation of sore joints and muscles. CBD and CBG provide pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to ease tight muscles and stiff joints.
This CBD cream also contains white willow bark, caffeine, green tea tree oil, and vanillin for enhanced anti-inflammatory effects. Plus, the cream is infused with camphor, which creates a warming sensation that may help soothe and loosen sore muscles.
Customers love how fast the effects of this pain relief cream kick in, with many reporting almost instant relief. Users claim it works well to ease discomfort in joints and muscles and reduce inflammation without leaving any sticky residue.
This product is available in two potencies and has been medically reviewed and third-party lab-tested. Subscribe & Save orders are eligible for free shipping and a 25% discount, and buyers have a choice between scheduled deliveries every 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks.
Pros:
- Tea tree oil and vanillin for enhanced inflammation reduction
- Broad-spectrum formula offers synergistic effects
- Vegan-friendly and made with organic hemp
- Free shipping and a 25% discount on Subscribe & Save orders
Cons:
- Scent can be a bit strong at first
Specs:
- CBD type: Broad-spectrum
- Size: 1.7 ounces per bottle
- Strength: 1,000 mg or 3,000 mg CBD and CBG per bottle
- Scent(s): Unspecified
Learn more about CBDfx CBG + CBD Lotion for Muscles and Joints today
2. Best for Muscle Soreness: Soul Rapid Relief Cream
What we love:
Soul Rapid Relief Cream is formulated to deliver fast-acting relief to soothe sore muscles. Ideal for post-workout pain and muscle strain, this product contains isolate CBD oil, making it suitable for those who prefer to avoid other cannabinoids. Camphor and eucalyptus oils produce a cooling sensation, offering additional relief from discomfort. Menthol cools and calms muscle pain with a pleasant tingling sensation that helps increase blood flow to the area to accelerate healing.
Each batch of CBD balm is sent for third-party testing for potency and purity, and the lab reports are available for review on the company website, so you can rest assured of the product’s quality and safety. This cream is made with USA-grown, organic hemp, and it comes in a convenient bottle with a pump top for easy application.
Customers claim this topical is great for quick and natural pain alleviation from sciatica, tendonitis, and post-exercise muscle pain. Many users say their muscles feel looser and more relaxed after using this cream.
You can take advantage of a 15% discount and regular deliveries of this product every 2, 4, or 8 weeks when you purchase through the Subscribe & Save program. No commitment is necessary, and you can skip deliveries or cancel your subscription anytime.
Pros:
- Made with organic, USA-grown hemp
- Third-party lab tested with accessible lab reports
- Fast-acting pain relief
- Fifteen percent discount on Subscribe & Save orders
Cons:
- No entourage effect
Specs:
- CBD type: Isolate
- Size: 3.4 ounces per bottle
- Strength: 1,500 mg CBD per bottle
- Scent(s): Unspecified
Learn more about Soul Rapid Relief Cream today
3. Best for Fast Relief: Aspen Green Full-Spectrum CBD Relief Cooling Cream
What we love:
For fast, potent relief, we recommend trying Aspen Green Full-Spectrum CBD Relief Cooling Cream. Made with full-spectrum CBD, this cream contains a full range of cannabinoids, including THC, for enhanced pain-relieving benefits. CBD penetrates deep to ease joint and muscle pain, while menthol offers a cooling sensation, and hemp seed oil and aloe vera work together to hydrate dry skin.
This physician-formulated cream features a purified water base that allows for smooth application and speedy absorption for fast, localized pain relief. It’s made with USDA-certified organic hemp and it doesn’t contain plasticizers or synthetic preservatives. It’s backed by a satisfaction guarantee, and Aspen Green accepts returns of unopened products within 60 days of purchase.
Customers say this CBD cream is great for relieving all kinds of pain, from chronic pain to everyday niggles. Some users even claim they no longer need to use oral medications as often with regular use of the cream.
Pros:
- Made with organically grown hemp
- Food-grade ingredients
- Compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill
- Potent, fast-acting effects
Cons:
- Not ideal for those avoiding THC
Specs:
- CBD type: Full-spectrum
- Size: 2 ounces per jar
- Strength: 1,000 mg CBD and 33 mg THC per jar
- Scent(s): Unspecified
Learn more about Aspen Green Full-Spectrum Relief Cooling Cream today
4. Best Value: Medterra Rapid Recovery Cream
What we love:
Medterra's Rapid Recovery Cream is a solid choice for those seeking quick effects, natural pain relief, and excellent value. Buyers can save a whopping 30% on monthly or bi-monthly deliveries of this product when they purchase through the Subscribe & Save program. Plus, all subscription-based orders ship for free, providing additional savings. Subscriptions can be canceled or paused at any time.
Available in two potencies, this cream is formulated with menthol for cooling and soothing relief from muscle aches and arnica, known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits. The cream has a light texture and goes on smoothly, making it easy to apply. The inclusion of aloe barbadensis leaf juice hydrates and nourishes the skin, preventing dryness and irritation.
Customers praise this topical for providing effective pain relief whenever and wherever they need it. They enjoy the cooling properties and soothing scent of menthol as well as the smooth texture and ease of application of this product.
Pros:
- Soothing CBD, menthol, and arnica
- Available in two strengths
- Third-party lab tested
- Thirty percent discount on subscription orders
Cons:
- May not be strong enough for severe, persistent pain
Specs:
- CBD type: Isolate
- Size: 1.7 ounces per bottle
- Strength: 500 mg or 750 mg CBD per bottle
- Scent(s): Unspecified
Learn more about Medterra Rapid Recovery Cream today
5. Best for Skin Health: CBDistillery CBD Balm
What we love:
Find targeted relief after a long day or a solid workout with CBDistillery's CBD Balm. Formulated with 100% natural ingredients, this topical absorbs into the skin quickly, providing fast relief for sore muscles and tight joints. Essential oils, including lavender oil and aloe vera, work together to moisturize dry skin while giving the cream a subtle scent. Shea butter and coconut oil further enhance the product’s skin-hydrating effects and pleasant aroma.
This cream is expertly formulated by a botanist and contains full-spectrum CBD oil for amplified effects. It’s made from premium, clean ingredients, including industrial, USA-grown hemp, making it one of the higher-quality CBD creams on the market.
Customers say this CBD topical works well to ease aches and pains, including muscle strain, stiff joints, and minor sprains. They love how the balm leaves their skin feeling soft and smooth long after application.
This cream is backed by a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. You can sign up for scheduled deliveries every 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 weeks to enjoy a 30% discount and free shipping on every order while ensuring you never run out of your favorite topical.
Pros:
- Made with 100% clean ingredients
- Soothing shea butter and essential oils
- Third-party lab-tested
- Thirty percent discount on subscription orders
Cons:
- Not suitable for those allergic to coconut
Specs:
- CBD type: Full-spectrum
- Size: 1 ounce per container
- Strength: 500 mg CBD per container
- Scent(s): Unspecified
Learn more about CBDistillery CBD Balm today
How We Picked the Best CBD Creams
With so many options available, finding the highest-rated CBD creams to feature in this article wasn’t easy. Here are some of the factors we considered while making our selections.
Quality Ingredients
A quality CBD topical starts with quality ingredients. We favored brands that source their hemp extracts from domestic farms that use organic growing practices. This helps ensure that the final CBD topical is free of pesticides and herbicides.
Furthermore, we only recommend CBD creams and supplements made with all-natural and clean ingredients, as artificial ingredients can increase the risk of skin irritation and dryness.
Production Process
How a CBD cream is manufactured can also impact its quality. We prioritized CBD creams made by brands that adhere to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These guidelines establish minimum requirements for the methods and facilities used in the manufacturing process, helping to guarantee the production of safe, high-quality products.
Third-Party Testing
Speaking of safety and quality, we only featured brands that send their CBD creams for independent lab testing for potency and purity. The lab results of all of the products listed above are easy to access and confirm that the concentrations of CBD and other cannabinoids are as advertised and the products are free from contaminants.
Customer Reviews
One of the first things we did when researching topical CBD products was to check customer reviews. Buyer feedback is a great source of information about the effectiveness and potential side effects of a given CBD cream. Only options that earned plenty of favorable reviews were featured in this article.
How To Find the Best CBD Cream for You
As you’re shopping for topical CBD products to alleviate pain, keep the following factors in mind to ensure you choose the best CBD cream for your wellness needs:
CBD Concentration
CBD creams come in different potencies, and their CBD concentrations can determine their effects. For post-workout aches and pains, a CBD cream containing a low or moderate concentration of CBD should provide sufficient pain relief. For chronic pain, such as arthritis pain, a cream with a higher CBD concentration is likely to offer more effective joint pain relief.
Formula
CBD pain relief creams often contain additional ingredients that may provide unique benefits. For example, some contain lavender oil or other essential oils to help nourish the skin or create soothing aromas. Many CBD creams contain menthol to provide cooling relief or ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera to soften and hydrate the skin. Choose a formula that aligns with your wellness needs and desired results.
Allergies, Sensitivities, and Preferences
When choosing a topical CBD product, it’s important to consider any allergies, sensitivities, and preferences you may have. For example, if you’re allergic to coconut, make sure the product you choose doesn’t contain coconut oil. Users with sensitive skin should avoid products with potentially irritating ingredients and do a patch test before using a particular joint cream or CBD lotion. Also, if you’re vegan, look for cruelty-free, plant-based formulas, and if you follow an organic lifestyle, opt for creams made with all organic ingredients.
Brand Reputation
For optimal safety and quality, buying CBD products from reputable vendors is crucial. The best brands use premium ingredients in their formulations and have their products tested by independent labs to confirm they don’t contain contaminants. A legitimate brand will also happily share the lab reports with you.
Furthermore, reliable brands are often recognized by prestigious organizations—like the U.S. Hemp Authority—and adhere to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). Look for retailers that produce their goods in facilities approved by the FDA and are fully transparent about where and how they source their ingredients.
Pain Type and Severity
Considering the type and severity of your pain can help you narrow down your options and find a product that aligns with your needs. For example, if you’re struggling with severe or chronic pain, higher-potency creams and broad- or full-spectrum formulas are your best bet. For mild or acute pain, you may prefer less potent or isolate formulas.
Some products are specifically crafted to alleviate specific types of discomfort. For example, CBD joint cream is formulated to alleviate joint pain, making it a good choice for those struggling with arthritis or other conditions affecting the joints.
Reading product descriptions, reviews, and ingredient lists can help you identify formulas to meet your needs.
Value
When shopping for CBD topicals, it’s important to focus on value. Rather than choosing the cheapest option, look for products that combine quality and affordability. Aim for reasonably priced topicals made with premium ingredients and manufactured by reputable companies.
One of the best ways to ensure you’re getting excellent value for money is to sign up for recurring deliveries of a topical CBD product once you know you like it. Many brands, including all of the ones featured above, offer discounts through their Subscribe and Save programs. On average, buyers save 15 to 30% when they opt for scheduled deliveries of their favorite CBD creams.
Types of CBD Cream
As you’re shopping for CBD topicals and other products containing CBD, you’ll likely notice that they’re formulated with one of three different types of CBD: isolate, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum. The type of CBD used in a product greatly impacts the product’s effects. Here’s a breakdown of the different forms of CBD and their properties.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is just pure CBD and nothing else. There are no additional cannabinoids or hemp plant compounds found in isolate CBD. Products made with this type of CBD do offer some relief from joint pain and other forms of physical discomfort. However, their results are typically less potent than those made with broad- or full-spectrum CBD.
Isolate formulas are ideal for people seeking simple, straightforward relief from mild-to-moderate pain without exposure to any additional cannabinoids.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD contains CBD and all other cannabinoids found in the hemp plant except for THC, which is removed during a special process. These additional cannabinoids have unique benefits and work together to boost each other’s properties, known as the entourage effect. For example, CBG has energizing and anti-inflammatory properties, and CBN has a sedative effect, making it ideal for promoting sleep and relaxation.
Broad-spectrum CBD also contains a full range of hemp-derived terpenes, aromatic compounds associated with various wellness benefits, such as pain and stress relief. These terpenes may also enhance the effect of cannabinoids.
Broad-spectrum CBD products are popular among users seeking the entourage effect while avoiding THC.
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD contains all the compounds of the cannabis plant, including THC. While THC has psychoactive properties, the trace amounts found in full-spectrum CBD products aren’t enough to cause intoxication. However, they’re enough to amplify the effects of the other cannabinoids. (Plus, when applied topically, THC doesn’t enter the bloodstream or cause mind-altering effects.)
Full-spectrum CBD offers robust, comprehensive effects, as all of the cannabinoids work synergistically to boost each other’s benefits. As such, it’s a popular choice for those seeking relief from severe or chronic pain.
Other Types of CBD Products
While CBD cream offers potent relief from achy joints and localized pain, it’s only one of many types of CBD products. Over the last decade, the hemp market has exploded. From CBD oils to vapes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the many perks CBD extract has to offer. These are some of the most popular options available.
CBD Tinctures
CBD tinctures are liquid concentrates known for their quick onset of effects and versatility. When used sublingually, CBD tinctures are one of the fastest-acting CBD products, absorbing directly into the bloodstream and producing results within minutes of use.
These potent CBD oil products can also be added to your favorite drinks or desserts. However, the effects will take a little longer to kick in when CBD is orally ingested. Tinctures come in various flavors, allowing you to easily and precisely adjust your dose, one drop at a time.
CBD Gummies
The main benefit of CBD gummies and other edibles is that they contain a precise and consistent dose of CBD, making it easy to monitor your intake without measuring. CBD gummies are also convenient and discreet, which makes them perfect for on-the-go use. With a wide variety of flavors and potencies to choose from, you’re sure to find CBD gummies that suit your needs.
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules are gel caps filled with pre-measured doses of CBD oil. Like gummies, these dietary supplements are portable, discreet, and don’t require measuring, so they’re a great option for traveling and on-the-go use.
CBD Vapes
CBD vape juice offers one of the fastest ways to feel the benefits of CBD. When you inhale from a CBD-infused vape, the vapor quickly enters the bloodstream through the lungs, producing almost instant effects. As such, vapes are a popular choice for fast-acting alleviation of sudden symptoms ranging from joint pain to anxiety.
CBD Drinks
CBD beverages have soared in popularity in recent years. Today, they come in an impressive variety of just about every flavor you can think of. You'll find CBD-infused wines, beers, soft drinks, and even teas that can help you relax and unwind or boost energy in the morning.
Many people enjoy consuming these drinks at social gatherings. These beverages have emerged as a great alternative to alcohol, providing relaxing benefits without a next-day hangover.
Potential Side Effects of CBD
CBD topicals are generally safe and unlikely to cause side effects. However, there are some possible adverse effects to be aware of, including:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea and diarrhea
- Skin irritation or rash, especially for those with sensitive skin
CBD is also known to interact with some over-the-counter and prescription drugs, including certain anticonvulsant medications, antidepressants, opioid painkillers, and other medications. Therefore, if you're taking any medications or supplements, you should speak with a doctor or pharmacist before you start using topical CBD.
Additionally, the FDA recommends avoiding all forms of CBD—including CBD oils, capsules, edibles, vapes, and topicals—if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
CBD Topicals FAQs
Is CBD cream safe?
CBD cream is generally considered safe for most people. However, there are some things to consider to minimize your chances of unwanted effects.
Choosing a high-quality CBD pain cream made by a reputable manufacturer is essential. Make sure the product you select has been third-party lab-tested and doesn’t contain any heavy metals, pesticides, toxins, or other contaminants.
If you have sensitive skin, choose a topical CBD product advertised as safe for sensitive skin to avoid irritation. Check the ingredient label before buying CBD topicals to ensure there are no ingredients that you’re allergic to.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, the FDA recommends avoiding CBD in any form, including CBD cream for pain. Also, if you’re taking medications or supplements, you should check with your doctor to ensure CBD lotions won’t interact poorly with them.
Most people don’t experience adverse effects when using CBD cream for pain. In the rare cases that side effects do occur, they’re typically mild and temporary. Some possible side effects include skin irritation, dry mouth, drowsiness, digestive discomfort, and drug interactions.
Is CBD cream legal?
CBD pain relief cream is federally legal as long as it’s made with hemp-derived ingredients and doesn’t exceed 0.3% THC by dry weight. The same applies to CBD oil, edibles, and other cannabis products.
However, it’s important to note that state and federal laws aren’t always in agreement. That said, it’s a good idea to check your local regulations before buying or using CBD topicals or other cannabis products.
Does CBD cream cause psychoactive effects?
No, CBD doesn’t have psychoactive properties. Even full-spectrum CBD doesn’t contain enough THC to cause a high. Plus, topical CBD products don’t penetrate the bloodstream, so there’s no risk of mind-altering effects associated with using them.
Will CBD cream cause positive drug test results?
No, topical application of CBD creams—even full-spectrum formulas containing THC—will not cause positive drug test results in blood or urine tests.
How much CBD cream should I use?
A little CBD cream for pain goes a long way, especially if you choose a potent or full-spectrum formula. You can increase the absorption of CBD cream by warming it in your hands before application and thoroughly rubbing it into the affected area. Many CBD topicals can be reapplied as needed.
How fast does CBD cream work?
How quickly you experience the pain-relieving effects of a CBD topical depends on individual factors, like pain severity and the product’s potency and formulation. For instance, if you have severe pain, it may take a little longer for CBD lotions to provide pain relief than if you have mild pain.
Generally, most users start to experience pain relief within 20 to 30 minutes of application.
How long do the effects of CBD pain cream last?
The duration of effects depends on various factors, including the potency of your chosen product and the type of CBD oil in its formulation. For example, a full-spectrum CBD balm will likely have longer-lasting effects than an isolate CBD topical.
In general, the effects of topical CBD products last around three hours; however, higher-potency and full-spectrum CBD creams can provide relief that lasts up to six hours.
Conclusion
CBD creams offer an effective, natural alternative to traditional medications for pain management. They can provide targeted pain relief for achy joints and sore muscles, potentially improving your mobility, sleep quality, overall comfort, and quality of life.
The best CBD creams are made with all-natural ingredients and are third-party tested to guarantee potency and purity. Not only do the products mentioned above check all of these boxes, but they’re also available for regular deliveries and eligible for hefty discounts when purchased with a subscription.
Whether you’re struggling with chronic or acute pain, our featured topical CBD products can deliver potent pain relief, convenience, and value right to your doorstep.
