Best CBD Creams: Top-Rated Topicals and Lotions

CBD topicals include creams, lotions, and ointments made with cannabidiol (CBD) and applied directly to the skin. These products are usually made from hemp extract and contain no more than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which means they cannot cause a high.

Although CBD comes from hemp and cannabis plants, it does not contain the same psychotropic chemical structure as THC.  Therefore, it’s unlikely to appear on drug tests.

CBD creams and similar products are commonly used to ease pain linked to muscle and joint inflammation. Research suggests CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for conditions like arthritis, back pain, and general soreness.

However, CBD topicals are best for mild, localized discomfort. They are not a substitute for medical care in cases of chronic pain or serious health issues. Anyone dealing with ongoing or severe pain should consult a healthcare professional for proper treatment.

We’ve tried a lot of CBD topicals, but FAB CBD’s one quickly stood out. Each 2oz jar packs 600mg of CBD (about three times stronger than most creams we’ve used). The hemp is full-spectrum, organic, and grown in Colorado, which gave us confidence in its quality. Plus, it’s non-GMO and pesticide-free.

When we applied it, we noticed how effective it was for easing daily stress and helping with post-workout recovery. It supported relief from muscle and joint discomfort while calming inflammation. Due to these almost immediate effects, we consider this the best CBD cream for pain.

The scent was another pleasant surprise. The mix of blood orange and cinnamon left a refreshing aroma that covered up the natural hemp smell without being overpowering.

We also liked the texture. Thanks to the ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and aloe vera, the cream spread evenly and absorbed well, leaving our skin soft and hydrated.

For best results, we found that a fingertip-sized amount was enough for one area. If the discomfort lingered, applying a second layer worked well.

We tested the CBDfx CBD Balm Stick for muscles and joints, and it quickly became one of our go-to recovery products. The cooling and warming effect reminded us of classic muscle balms, but with the added boost of broad-spectrum CBD. The camphor oil gave us that familiar warmth, while menthol, peppermint, and wintergreen oils delivered a refreshing chill. Together, they worked fast to ease soreness and help us relax.

We found it especially useful after a tough workout or on days when stress left our muscles feeling tight. The hot-and-cold sensation, combined with CBD, made it feel like we had just stepped out of a spa session.

The balm stick design also made application simple and mess-free. With ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and black pepper oil, our skin felt moisturized and calm after use. We usually started with a light layer over the sore area, then reapplied when needed, which worked well for longer relief.

For anyone interested, CBDfx often offers discounts, and you can save up to 20% off with our coupon code.

We’ve found that the best CBD pain relief creams include menthol for quick relief while the CBD takes effect, and FOCL’s Deep Relief Cream nails this balance.

As soon as we applied it, the menthol delivered a cooling sensation that helped ease muscle tension right away. Over time, the CBD worked alongside other ingredients like camphor oil, aloe, shea butter, arnica, eucalyptus, and wintergreen oil. Together, they made a noticeable difference in managing soreness and everyday aches.

What stood out to us is that FOCL uses broad-spectrum CBD with zero THC. That gave us peace of mind, especially for athletes or anyone who wants the benefits of CBD without THC in their system.

We also liked that FOCL offers bundle packs, which made it easy to stock up while saving money.

When we tried NuLeaf Naturals’ CBD Balm, the simplicity of the formula really impressed us. It’s made with just two ingredients: full-spectrum hemp extract and organic shea butter. That clean mix made it easy for us to target specific areas and get the CBD working right where we needed it.

NuLeaf sells the balm in two sizes: 0.5 ounces with 300mg of CBD and 1.5 ounces with 900mg. The only drawback we noticed is that there aren’t different potency options, just size variations.

Even so, the quality spoke for itself. If you want a straightforward, full-spectrum CBD topical, this one is hard to beat. We also liked that shipping was free and fast (2-3 days), and the subscription option made it easy to save on repeat orders.

We’ve tried several topicals from CBDistillery, but the one that stood out most to us is their CBDol. Each container has 500mg of full-spectrum hemp extract, which felt like the right strength for regular use.

While not all CBD fully penetrates the skin, we noticed that the added ingredients made a big difference in easing muscle tension. Another plus is that it’s formulated for all skin types, so it worked well for everyone on our team.

The price is $50 per container, but we found ways to save through CBDistillery’s subscription service and promo codes. After using it ourselves for a few different conditions, we can honestly say this is one of the best CBD creams for arthritis joint pain.

When we tested Mederra’s Pain Relief Cream, we noticed how well it combined CBD with other natural ingredients. The menthol and arnica gave us fast relief right after applying, while the CBD isolate gradually worked through the skin for longer-lasting support. We also liked having potency options: 500mg for lighter needs or 1000mg when we wanted something stronger.

Another benefit we appreciated is that the cream is completely THC-free. That gave us peace of mind knowing there was no risk of THC showing up on a drug test.

The pricing also felt fair: $39.99 for the 500mg cream and $59.99 for the 1000mg. We saved even more with Medterra’s subscription service, which knocks off 30% and includes free shipping. Overall, this cream became one of our favorite THC-free options for managing neck pain and other discomfort.

Whether CBD creams are better depends on your goal.

If you want targeted relief for sore muscles, stiff joints, or localized discomfort, creams and other topicals are a strong option. Because they are applied directly to the affected area, you can focus relief where you need it most. The trade-off is that CBD from topicals takes longer to absorb compared to oils or vapes, which enters the bloodstream more quickly.

CBD creams work well, but patience is important. Apply a small amount first and wait up to an hour before reapplying. Many products come in jars or tubs, which means you’ll be using your hands for application. To avoid contamination, wash your hands before and after use, or consider products that come in pump bottles or include a spatula for clean application.

Other CBD formats (such as tinctures, vapes, gummies, and capsules) have more systematic effects. These products may be better suited for broader concerns like sleep issues, stress, or anxiety, where relief isn’t tied to a specific part of the body.

Choosing the right CBD topical starts with knowing what you want from the product. Whether it’s relief from muscle pain, joint stiffness, or general relaxation, the best CBD creams share a few key qualities. Here are the main factors to consider:

Applying CBD cream correctly helps you get the most relief. The key is to start small and adjust as needed.

1. Start with a small amount. Apply a fingertip-sized portion to the affected area. If discomfort remains after an hour, apply a little more. Consistency matters; using the same amount each time helps you track results.
2. Consider key factors. The effectiveness of a topical can vary based on:
   • Potency of the cream
   • Severity of your pain
   • Age of the product
   • Storage conditions
3. Clean before applying. Wash your hands and the affected area with soap and water or use sanitizer. Avoid applying CBD cream on broken skin, cuts, or open wounds.
4. Apply correctly. Use clean fingers or a spatula to spread the cream in circular motions. This helps absorption and avoids contamination.
5. Store properly. Keep CBD creams in a cool, dark place. Always check the expiration date and make sure the seal is intact before first use.

If a topical doesn’t give enough relief, consider other CBD products. Vaping CBD oil offers fast results for pain and inflammation, while CBD edibles provide a consistent daily dose.

One of the most common questions people ask about CBD products is whether they cause a “high.” The answer is no. CBD creams and other topicals are derived from industrial hemp, which by law can only contain up to 0.3% THC. This trace amount is far too low to produce any psychoactive effects.

What CBD can do, however, is promote a sense of calm and help ease stress, anxiety, and physical discomfort. While you may feel more relaxed after using a CBD topical, that feeling is not the same as the mind-altering effects associated with THC.

It’s also worth noting that CBD creams can sometimes cause mild side effects, usually related to other ingredients in the product. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, check the label carefully to avoid irritation.

Here’s a quick overview of the benefits and limitations of CBD topicals:

CBD topicals are ideal for targeting pain and discomfort in specific areas. With regular use, they can help manage localized pain from conditions such as arthritis, sciatica, and chronic muscle aches.

After reviewing the top CBD creams on the market, our top pick is Topical CBD Cream from FAB CBD. It combines high potency with organic, full-spectrum hemp grown in the U.S., and it is non-GMO and pesticide-free, making it a standout choice for quality and effectiveness.

Whether you need relief from everyday stress, support for post-workout recovery, or a sense of calm and focus, this cream delivers. On top of that, it stands out with its unique blood orange and cinnamon scent, offering a refreshing alternative to the usual mint and menthol topicals.