With the rapid increase of CBD topicals flooding the market, how can consumers find products that will actually deliver results?

Along with the increased legalization of cannabis and hemp, one finds a rapid increase of topicals available for sale containing cannabinoids. In particular, consumers can find hemp-derived CBD topicals at farmer’s markets, natural food stores, and even chain stores like Walmart, as well as online. 

With this rapid increase of CBD topicals flooding the market, how can consumers find products that will actually deliver results? Becca Recker of Frogsong Farm describes how one should seek out therapeutic grade hemp CBD products by focusing on purity, concentration, and consistency. 

Purity: Seek cannabis or hemp that was grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. It should be extracted in a gentle way that preserves the cannabinoid profile (where much of the medicinal benefits lie) and does not introduce contaminants into the extract. Ethanol or CO2 extraction are preferred methods. Other, cheaper methods can leave carcinogenic solvent residues in the extract. The extract should also be lab tested and proven free from mold, heavy metals, and solvents. 

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Concentration: There needs to be enough cannabinoids to actually have some therapeutic effect on the user. This can be pain relief, reduced inflammation, skin repair, etc. This usually means at least 10 milligrams per usage, up to 25 or even 50. In other words, look for a product with at least 250 mg per ounce. If a jar only has 50 mg of CBD, it’s not going to do much. Lab tests should prove the concentration of cannabinoids.

Consistency: The product should have the intended results/benefits, and be reliable and predictable in its effects. This mainly comes from consistent recipe, dosage, and handling, as well as sourcing of the actual product. Look for products that contain at least 250 mg of CBD per ounce of product. Also, look for products that have high quality, skin nourishing ingredients beyond CBD. Here consumers should expect the same standards they seek in other high end skin care by selecting products that are all natural, preservative free, and fragrance free. As such, they do not contain mineral oil, petroleum byproducts, parabens, phthalates, and artificial ingredients. 

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Finally, Recker urges consumer to disregard marketing ploys that are filled with buzzwords like phytocannabinoids, hemp extract, nano-extracted, and MCT oil. In addition, consumers should not expect much from products like shampoo, lip balm, and body wash that either are rinsed right off, applied to a small area, or have very low doses of CBD. 

Armed with this information, consumers should be able to ask the questions that can enable them to find the cannabis or hemp-derived topical that works best for their individual needs.