Cannabis topicals: creams, balms and what they do
Cannabis you rub on, not take in. How topicals work, what they're used for, and why they don't get you high.
Cannabis topicals, creams, balms, lotions, and salves infused with cannabinoids, are applied to the skin rather than inhaled or eaten. They’re the one cannabis format that, used normally, won’t get you high.
Why they don’t intoxicate
Topicals act on cannabinoid receptors in the skin and local tissue. The compounds generally don’t reach your bloodstream in meaningful amounts, so there’s no “high”, just localized effects where you apply them.
What people use them for
- Localized aches and soreness: muscles and joints after activity.
- Skin comfort: some are marketed for dry or irritated skin.
- Targeted relief without any mental effects.
Evidence varies and is still developing, treat bold health claims skeptically, and talk to a healthcare provider for a medical condition.
How to use them
- Apply to clean, dry skin over the area you want to target.
- Start with a small amount; reapply as directed.
- Avoid broken skin and your eyes.
A note on transdermal patches
Transdermal patches are different, they’re designed to drive cannabinoids through the skin into the bloodstream, so they can be intoxicating and longer-acting. Read those labels carefully; they’re not the same as a surface balm.
Sources
- Health Canada, Cannabis product types
Frequently asked questions
Do cannabis topicals get you high?
Generally no. Most topicals work locally on the skin and do not enter the bloodstream enough to cause a high.
What are cannabis topicals used for?
People use creams and balms on a specific area for localized comfort. The effect is local, not a body-wide high.
How long do topicals take to work?
It varies, and the effect is localized rather than systemic. Reapply as directed on the product.
Are topicals a good option for beginners?
They are a low-risk way to try cannabis without intoxication, since they do not typically cause a high.
Know your local rules
Legal age, where to buy, and where you can use it all change by province.
Before you go, stay in the loop
A short, plain-English email when the law changes or we publish something worth reading. No hype, no spam.
Independent · about twice a month · unsubscribe anytime
Thanks, you're on the list. Welcome aboard.
Something went wrong. Please try again.