Best CBD Cream for Pain: An Updated 2022 Buyer’s Guide

CBD shows great promise as an effective anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective natural remedy for millions of people suffering from pain. According to an article by Dr.Shivani a Pain Specialist and Expert in Medical Cannabis, CBD is known for being effective for chronic pain and inflammation with no known side effects with other medications. More evidence about it been an effective pain reliever comes from the number of professional athletes and other sports persons that cite the benefits of CBD topicals for spasms and sore muscles.

Numerous companies continue to manufacture CBD variations designed to benefit the young and old, with popularity growing day by day. For a first-time user, it can be a daunting experience when it comes to selecting a CBD product from tinctures administered under the tongue, capsules, or gummies that are easier to dose to a topical option like CBD cream.

CBD pain creams alongside other natural components are applied topically to relieve pain and inflammation. CBD creams are very effective for arthritis, chronic pain, and general aches and pains. It is also excellent support for everyday muscle and joint fatigue. It also helps to nourish and soothe dry skin. There are many pain creams; however, not all are of high quality. Read on to learn more about what to look for when making the proper selection of CBD cream, salves, and balms on the market.

Best CBD Cream for Pain: Our List

1. Fab CBD – Best Overall Full Spectrum CBD Cream
2. CBDistillery – Broad Spectrum Fragrance-free Cream
3. Green Roads – Muscle & Joint and Pain Relief Creams
4. Joy Organics – High Quality Scent Free CBD Cream
5. Populum – Fast Acting Cooling Hemp CBD Rub

How We Chose the Best CBD Creams for Pain

CBD has continued to gain popularity because of its promising results in providing pain relief; dozens of CBD brands have emerged that different offer creams. It is a daunting experience for a user to determine the CBD creams that are reliable and safe. We looked at some of the best CBD topical creams using the following criteria to determine the best CBD creams:

• CBD and Hemp Sources

We considered the source of Hemp, and our list of selected brands indicates that their Hemp is grown in the USA, in selected states like Colorado, Kentucky, North Carolina. US-sourced Hemp is of high quality compared to other regions, and the US has in place strict regulations that govern the production of Hemp and CBD products. Reputable brands ensure to adhere to these guidelines to avoid the risk of facing hefty fines or closure.

• Type of Extract

CBD creams are produced in three hemp extracts, broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, and isolate, with the differences defined in purity and level of THC they contain. The Full-spectrum extract contains all cannabinoids in the hemp plant, including THC (< 0.3%). Full-spectrum infused creams produce the Entourage effect from the combined cannabinoids, making them more powerful and effective for pain than the other two variants. Broad-spectrum cannabidiol contains other beneficial cannabinoids but excludes THC.

CBD isolate does not contain any additional cannabinoids or THC and is produced using an advanced extraction method that extracts pure cannabidiol from the hemp plant; thus, it’s less potent than the others. Our selection of brands offers one of these three types of extracts, and none is safer than another, which comes down to personal preference.

• Third-Party Lab-Tested

Some of the CBD creams available out there do not have the displayed CBD levels, and others do not undergo independent lab testing to verify the quality, purity, and potency of CBD in their CBD creams. Our listed CBD creams have a certificate of analysis displayed with third-party lab testing results that indicate THC level, CBD extract present in each CBD cream, amongst other factors. This level of transparency is proof of their credibility and confidence in their product which boosts the customer’s trust and confidence in their CBD creams.

• Potency

Most CBD users apply CBD creams to help relieve pain; creams come in a range of concentrations from as low as 100 mg of infused CBD, while others have more potency levels of 1,000 mg and above. Ideally, the higher the potency of the CBD, the more effective a CBD cream will be. For first-time users, it is advisable, to begin with, lower strength and gradually work their way to a higher level when necessary.

• Price and Value

CBD creams come in different price ranges to cater for different budgets so that it is accessible to all people, with some being too cheap and others unreasonably high. We recommend buying quality and effective CBD creams from a trustworthy CBD brand like our selection list.

• Scent

Many companies add other ingredients to alter the mild earthy scent of CBD; however, some of the creams come loaded with a menthol scent to overpower the other elements to give a false impression of high potency. If you are sensitive to strong fragrances, it is best to avoid topical creams with these ingredients.

• Natural Ingredients

Some CBD creams contain natural ingredients to enhance the benefits of the Cream others may include artificial chemicals or synthetic ingredients. We considered CBD creams from brands that transparently showcase their ingredients and ensure that you are familiar with the elements. CBD creams that are enhanced to offer a cooling effect, warming effect were a plus. We prioritized based on ingredients that were organic and all-natural, contained no GMOs or artificial additives.

• Reviews

Customer reviews indicate the effectiveness and quality of the cream. Positive reviews generally show it can deliver on the advertised benefits. A mix of positive and negative reviews is still worth a try depending on the focus area of negative reviews. With negative reviews, it is best to check elsewhere for a reliable option.

• Ease of Application

CBD creams come in different consistencies depending on the ingredients they contain. Some may be greasy, making it difficult for a user to apply on their skin, while others are less greasy, which are easier to use and absorb better in the skin, making them more effective for pain.

• Pain and Muscle Relaxation Benefits

People apply CBD-infused creams for pain relief and so we considered CBD brands with the most effective creams for pain. We also considered CBD creams with proven relaxation benefits because they help soothe sore muscles and loosen tight muscles. These creams are most popular with people who apply them after challenging workout sessions.

• Shipping and Return Policy

Most of the brands have a flexible return policy which shows the confidence they have in their product. Shipping costs for these brands are either low or free, which provides customers with an excellent shopping experience.

Fab CBD Topical Cream

In-Depth Review

FABCBD’s full Spectrum Cream is made from lab-tested Colorado hemp. This silky, light, non-greasy cream is made with 600mg of CBD, three times more potent than average CBD creams out there in the market, making it highly effective for Muscle and Joint Pain.

Alongside the CBD, it contains natural ingredients like Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, and Olive Oil which help provide healthy, moisturized, healthy skin. The cream also contains vitamin E, which provides antioxidant and nourishing benefits. It contains ingredients like cinnamon and blood orange essential oils that give it a perfectly sublime scent that offers a good balance. FAB CBD has been featured in global publications and has also been voted the best CBD cream by D Magazine and Observer. Full Spectrum CBD Salve is another topical is his product is perfect for the active individuals that need support for daily wellbeing.

Ingredients: Distilled Water, Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, Optiphen Plus, Chamomile, Vitamin E, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Cinnamon, Blood Orange Essential Oil.

Consumer feedback: 5/5 Star Customer Review

Suggested Use: Apply fingertip-sized cream on clean, dry skin and apply a fingertip-sized amount onto the desired area. Apply a thin layer if the affected area is large, and then rub or massage into the skin for maximum absorption.

Highlights

• Farmed In Colorado
• Third-Party Lab Tested
• 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Free USA shipping on orders of $99 or more
• Multiple Awards
• High Potency
• Subtle Orange Scent

CBDistillery CBD Balm

In-Depth Review

CBDistillery’s broad spectrum fragrance-free cream is specially formulated to provide targeted relief for pain, a great option if you are sensitive to smells. It is enhanced with natural ingredients like Camphor, which delivers a soothing, warming sensation that relieves aches and pains.  It also includes extracts from plants like honeysuckle, rosemary, and aloe vera, which help to moisturize and calm the skin.

Like all other CBDistillery products, this cream is third-party lab-tested, made off from U.S Hemp Authority-certified. A potential consumer can easily access the COA of this CBD cream by scanning the product’s QR code or checking the product page on the brand’s website. This brand also produces one of the best CBD oils. Other topicals offered are the Full Spectrum CBD Salve that provides targeted relief after a workout and Isolates relief stick with the cooling sensation of menthol to give you a topical that’s perfect for on-the-go relief and recovery.

Ingredients: Water, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, ButyrospermumParkii(Shea) Butter, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, MenthylLactate, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Aerial Parts Extract, CetearylOlivate, SorbitanOlivate, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, PrunusArmeniaca(Apricot) Kernel Oil, PerseaGratissima (Avocado) Oil, LoniceraCaprifolium(Honey Suckle) Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honey Suckle) Flower Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, HelianthusAnnuus(Sunflower) Extract, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, AloeBarbadensis(Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Citric Acid, Hydroxyethylcellulose, CaprylylGlycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin

Consumer feedback: 4.5/5 (Great Product effectiveness; experience and pricing

Suggested Use: Apply on the affected areas on the skin as needed.

Highlights

• THC Free
• Menthol for a cooling sensation
• Fragrance-free
• Gluten-free
• Paraben-free
• Sulfate-free
• USA Sourced Hemp
• Non-GMO industrial
• 60-day money-back guarantee

Green Roads CBD Cream

In-Depth Review

These award-winning, third-party lab-tested creams come in two formulas Muscle & Joint and Pain Relief Creams. These premium CBD quality creams are made of U.S.-grown hemp extracts enhanced with natural ingredients like avocado oil, Methyl Salicylate, menthol, vitamin E, rosemary oil, eucalyptus oil, helps to nourish the skin. The Muscle & Joint cream contains 150 mg of CBD in a 1oz tube that helps manage physical stressors—enhanced with extracts from lavender, cucumber, avocado oil, vitamin E that helps ease muscle tension, and also nourish your skin. It is also excellent support for short-term relief for joint pains, back pain, arthritis, bruises.

This OTC cream relieves pain for those suffering from backaches, arthritis, muscle aches and pain, strains, or sprain. It offers added skin support with natural extracts like avocado oil, vitamin E, and eucalyptus oil. It has a fresh mint scent. Another topical offered by this brand is the Broad Spectrum Cold Relief CBD roll-on that soothes muscles with refreshing menthol. Broad Spectrum heat relief CBD roll-on is eased stiff, tired muscles with rosemary oil and gives added skin support with bentonite clay and avocado oil.

Ingredients: Muscle and Joint Cream: Water, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Glycerin, Persea gratissima (avocado) oil, Bentonite clay, xantham gum, hemp-derived cannabinoid extract, Phenoxyethanol, Cucumis sativus (cucumber) fruit extract, chamomile Recutita (Matricaria) fruit extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (lavender) oil, tocopherol (vitamin E), Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic acid, and menthol.

Pain Relief Cream: Methyl Salicylate 10%, Menthol 4%, Bentonite, Carthamus tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Hemp-Derived (Cannabis sativa) Cannabinoid Extract, Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Persea gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Xanthan Gum, Water.

Suggested Use: Apply 3 to 4 times a day on the affected area as needed

Consumer feedback: 4.9/5 Star Customer Reviews

Highlights

• American Farmed Hemp
• Independent Lab Certified
• No Animal Testing
• Pharmacist Formulated
• Proprietary Formula
• Isolate

Joy Organics CBD Cream

In-Depth Review

Joy Organics scent-free creams come in two high-quality CBD-infused formulas. They are similar in application, appearance, and consistency, much like other popular lotions and creams found in health and beauty products. The difference is that CBD cream is infused with hemp extract. This scent-free cream contains natural ingredients such as olive oil, aloe leaf juice, and safflower oleosomes.

The Joy Organics CBD sports cream option targets aching joints to rejuvenate sore muscles after a challenging workout. Infused with 400mg of Premium CBD and menthol extracts, Camphor, this 4oz container is perfect for after a gym exercise. Another Broad Spectrum topicals offered is Organic CBD Salve great for Nourishing dry and cracked skin and also helps Revitalize muscles and joints. Unscented Organic CBD Salve Stick ideal for joint support or targeting specific areas of the skin. CBD Bath Bombs is another topical option that helps relax sore muscles and support joints.

Ingredients:

Sports Cream: Water/Aqua, Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Menthol, Organic Glycerin, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Gluconolactone, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor) Bark Oil, Phytocannabinoid-Rich Hemp Extract, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol, Organic Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Organic Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Oil, Organic Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Sodium Chloride, Organic Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Oil, Organic Origanum Majorana (Sweet Marjoram) Oil, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Calcium Gluconate.

CBD Cream: Water/Aqua, Organic Olive Oil, Organic Glycerin, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Phytocannabinoid-Rich Hemp Extract, Gluconolactone, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Tocopherol, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sea Salt and Calcium Gluconate.

Consumer feedback: 5/5 Star Customer Review

Highlights

• USDA Certified Organic Hemp
• Third-Party Lab tested
• Premium grade.
• Cruelty-free
• Vegan
• Menthol and Camphor (Cooling Effect)
• THC Free

Populum: Cold Therapy Hemp Rub

In-Depth Review

This Fast-acting populum CBD hemp rub is 3x lab tested for purity and is a cooling cream that provides relief for Sore muscles and joints. It comes in gel form and delivers instant relief with its targeted cooling effect. This full-spectrum cream combined with aloe leaf, arnica Montana also helps with moisturizing and rejuvenating the skin A good number of customer reviews give positive testimonials of Populum Cold Therapy Hemp Rub as an excellent good pain reliever with anti-inflammatory benefits. Another topical offered is the Full Spectrum Lavender + CBD Face Oil that locks-in moisture, fight acne, and reduce fine lines.

Ingredients: Water, Isopropyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propylene Glycol, Menthol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hemp Oil Extract, Carbomer, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide

Consumer Feedback: 5/5 Star Review from new CBD to Experienced users

Suggested Use: Massage a thin layer into the affected area. Please do not use it more than four times.

Highlights

• US Colorado-grown hemp
• Paraben-free
• Non-GMO
• Cruelty-free and vegan.
• Targeted cooling
• Antioxidants
• Made in the USA
• 30 day Trial
• Free shipping

Who Should Use CBD Cream?

CBD creams can be beneficial from young to old, depending on their need. Several testimonials are given by most users on the effectiveness of CBD cream for both health and beauty needs, Chronic Pain, Post-exercise recovery, Body Recovery, Joint Pain, Inflammation, Sore Muscles, Skin nourishment, and Anti-wrinkle.

Can CBD Help with Pain?

CBD creams provide targeted relief on aching joints or Sore muscles by working on the body’s ECS to reduce pain and inflammation. Scientific studies highlight the anti-inflammatory properties to ease pain from the effects of arthritis, and muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. One crucial factor to be considered when selecting a cream is its potency since the effect of CBD cream tends to be slower than CBD oil. For this reason, it’s recommended that one chooses a cream with at least 200mg of CBD. For more chronic pain and inflammation, one can safely consider a cream with a CBD of 1000mg CBD in a package.

Advantages of CBD Cream: What Does the Science Say?

The research studies on CBD’s pain-relieving abilities are still in the early stages and also done on a small scale. Researchers have made many recommendations for large-scale studies to be undertaken to verify the benefits of topical CBD in managing pain. Nonetheless, as this article by SFgate outlines, several research Studies report that the use of CBD infused cream offers advantages in providing relief for different types of pain:

Arthritis Pain

A 2016 research study to examine the impact of CBD on inflammation and pain in dogs with arthritis concluded that the use of CBD on dogs with arthritis reported a marked improvement in the dogs given CBD overall mobility and comfort. Another research study published in a medical journal reported a reduced joint swelling, inflammation, and improved mobility in rats applied with CBD cream. The scientists concluded that CBD-infused creams could help relieve arthritis-related symptoms with no adverse side effects.

Jaw Pain

Another 2019 study looked into how topical CBD may relieve a specific kind of facial pain that mainly affects the jaw. The study found that people who applied topical CBD about two times a day experienced a lot less pain after two weeks.

Palliative Care Pain

One Research Study found that some people in palliative care use CBD regularly and that topical products, in particular, help reduce pain.

Reduced Pain and Discomfort

Some CBD creams contain natural compounds like menthol, and according to a recent scientific study, menthol is classified as a topical analgesic for its pain-relieving effects. In this study, scientists applied menthol cream on a group of workers and found a massive reduction in overall pain after that. CBD cream application has also shown notable benefits in treating skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and other inflammatory conditions. In conclusion, science says that CBD-infused creams show great potential for reducing pain, inflammation and improving mobility for different medical ailments.

How to Use CBD Cream?

Recommended use for CBD cream is to apply it topically on clean, dry skin whenever you need to experience relief or nourishment. If you have arthritic pain on any part of your body, first spread and rub it all over the affected region and gently massage and focus on the joints.

Some CBD creams are best suited for delicate skin like your face, while others are for the pain to be used on your body. A consumer can use CBD cream for pain as often as needed; some users even apply it after a shower routine for relaxation after a stressful day or after a workout. To help them recover after a long day or a challenging gym workout. If a CBD cream contains warming or cooling ingredients like menthol, first apply it on a small skin patch to test the effect, especially if you have sensitive skin.

CBD Cream & Dosage

CBD creams dosage can vary, and there is no one-size dosage; it differs from one person to another, all dependent on the individual’s preference and need. There is a misconception among some users that a high dosage is more effective. As scientific evidence indicates, the higher the amount of CBD in pain cream, the more CBD the body will absorb. CBD directly impacts the ECS and will be absorbed into the body system. Once absorbed, it interacts with numerous receptors in your ECS; therefore, the amount of CBD present in the cream affects the body.

Safety & Side-Effects of Using CBD Cream

Research studies show that consumers can use the Best CBD cream without causing any adverse side effects. It can be applied topically over the skin as often as needed; however, one should not ingest it. It is especially beneficial for dry, slightly irritated skin; however, avoid application on open wounds, sores, or broken skin as it can further irritate the area and slow down the natural healing process. CBD creams may contain other natural components that may cause one to experience side effects. Some people report feeling drowsiness, digestive discomfort, and loss of appetite. However, these side effects are not as pronounced as they would be with an edible CBD product. It is advisable to consult with your doctor, especially if you are using other medications.

FAQS

What Are CBD Cream?

These CBD-infused creams come in various scents, potencies, and textures contain CBD alongside other natural ingredients that help to soothe joints and sore muscles. Some CBD Creams are designed to help with the nourishment and soothing of dry skin.

Types of CBD Topical

Various Topical CBD variants in the CBD market come in the form of topicals. The standard options come in the form of Balms, lotions and salves, and creams.

• Lotions

These CBD lotions look like regular lotions; however, these skincare products have a thinner consistency than salves or balms, which allows one to apply on a larger body surface. They are designed for skin nourishment rather than as a pain reliever.

• Creams

These creams have a thicker consistency than the lotion, similar to the density and texture of yogurt. Topical cream also has a higher concentration than lotion, which is helpful in the nourishment of dry skin and relief of mild pain.

• Salves

Salves tend to have a wax-like and oily texture compared to lotions and are primarily used for mild localized pain areas such as the knees, elbows, neck, or lower back.

What do CBD Creams Do?

Research studies have shown that CBD creams help to relieve pain, ease inflammation and improve mobility. Creams also help to protect the skin against UV rays and harmful chemicals. These creams are formulated to absorb into the skin; other natural compounds alongside CBD helps to nourish the skin. When applied to the skin, these creams do not enter the bloodstream. Therefore they will not interact with medications. CBD Creams are thicker in consistency than lotions; they contain beneficial ingredients like Shea butter, coconut oil, aloe Vera, coconut, and nutrients that do not aid in carrying but also apply the cannabidiol to affected areas.

What Do CBD Creams Contain?

CBD creams contain either an Isolate or broad or full-spectrum hemp extract alongside other plant extracts, essential oils, and botanicals.

Do CBD Creams Create a High?’

Most people are concerned about getting high from all cannabis-related products; however, the CBD creams contain a low THC level (<0.3%), the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis that produces that ‘high ‘effect. For one to experience a ‘high’ effect, a product should contain very high THC levels. CBD creams will therefore not cause you to become high.

Can I Fail a Drug Test if I Use CBD Topical?

Some CBD topicals contain low amounts of THC depending on the CBD extract type used; however, the recommended THC level is (< 0.3%) is unlikely to cause one to fail a drug test.

Are CBD creams legal?

All 50 states in the USA have legally approved the use of CBD products that contain low traces of THC (< 0.3%) or zero amounts of THC.

The Bottom Line

CBD creams are a natural remedy to manage pain without the risk of adverse side effects. Several brands offer CBD creams to cater to everyone’s specific needs. Research Studies report the benefits of CBD cream in providing relief for various medical ailments that include Mild and Chronic pain from Arthritis, inflammation, eczema, psoriasis. The list we have compiled and researched consists of some of the best CBD creams in the market, in particular with regard to quality and safety.