Shopping blindly for CBD can be overwhelming. Even if you've done your research, the vast selection of CBD creams can be mind-boggling -- especially for first-time shoppers
We want to help you streamline the process. That's why we've put together a few points of things you should know before choosing a CBD topical.
Potency
The first thing to check is the potency. How potent is the cream? Given the fact that it takes time for CBD to pass through the skin, it's crucial that you choose a potent CBD cream for the best results.
In addition to this, we'd recommend looking up third-party lab testing results. This will tell you if the CBD cream meets industry standards, and if it contains as much CBD as it advertises.
The Source Of CBD
You've probably come across terms like full-spectrum and broad-spectrum. Well, these terms are used to refer to how CBD is extracted.
Broad-spectrum
Broad-spectrum CBD is enough to explain. It contains the majority of cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. However, broad-spectrum CBD doesn't contain THC.
Full-spectrum
Full-spectrum CBD preserves all the terpenes and cannabinoids found in CBD. This means you'll be getting all the benefits of CBD. However, you should note that full-spectrum hemp products contain 0.2% or less THC.
With these products being categorised as 'wellness' products, these products do not undergo the rigorous testing conducted on medicine. Therefore, it's up for the customer to confirm that the labels are accurate.
A recent study on The Extract found that 30% of CBD products sold online contained a higher dose than advertised. Furthermore, 10% of these products contained less CBD than advertised. Only 60% of these products had accurate labelling.
While this is a huge improvement from a similar study done in 2017, it's still possible to buy products that are mislabeled or untested.
Ingredients
It's always wise and more beneficial to go with all-natural ingredients whenever possible - you'll enjoy the full benefits of the CBD cream ingredients minus the chemicals. Most CBD goods will have a variety of essential oils in them.
Price
A good number of creams cost between £30-£50. Watch out for CBD topicals that sell for over £150; these products might over-promise but under-deliver.
While purchasing a £150 product might make sense -- especially if it's being advertised as a luxury facial cream -- do your research. You need to be completely sure before that CBD cream burns a hole in your pocket.
Check their potency. It's also a good idea to check on their added benefits -- do they contain additional healing oils or herbs? Do they have full-spectrum CBD?