Using CBD topically (as in applied directly to the skin) especially for those with skin issues or joint and muscle pain, CBD topicals are often more effective and quicker. Topical CBD formulations typically include additional ingredients to enhance an analgesic, anti-inflammatory effect. So although there are many ways to try CBD, a topical may be your best bet if you need to treat skin issues or relieve aches and pains.

A CBD topical is any CBD-infused lotion, cream, or salve that can be applied directly to the skin. They don’t have enough tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, of course, to get you high.

However, many have other cannabinoids and terpenes and are therefore capable of producing the entourage effect–the effect that happens when all of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes work together to produce benefits.

Full-spectrum CBD includes many of the cannabinoids and compounds of the cannabis plant, including up to 0.3% THC. Broad-spectrum CBD contains all the same compounds as full-spectrum CBD, minus THC. CBD isolates contain CBD only — none of the other cannabinoids and compounds from the plant are included.

There's a high concentration of cannabinoid receptors in the skin, and when CBD is applied topically, it activates the endocannabinoid system through those receptors. CBD binds to the cannabinoid receptors in your epidermal and dermal skin, a process that results in alleviation of pain and inflammation.

The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may be particularly useful for reducing potential triggers of eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. As CBD infused skin products can help soothe skin and reduce the appearance of irritation, it may be useful for people with sensitive skin.

Numerous studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory benefits when applied to skin. This makes CBD a suitable ingredient for acne-prone skin, while its calming benefits help reactive skin look and feel better.

Known for its healing properties, "cannabidiol offers some serious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits which can be beneficial in treating skin concerns like inflammation, dryness and free radical damage’’