Hemp topicals are one of the main categories of hemp products and are most often used to treat specific areas of the body with hemp.
As one of the largest product categories, it is not surprising that there are hemp topicals for almost every part of the body. Hemp cream and hemp ointment are the most well-known type of tropical, but other interesting options include shampoos, bath salts, and sprays.
Hemp topicals work in a slightly different way from other hemp products, and this is one of the things that makes them so popular. However, it is also the main reason they are not suitable for every person or medical situation.
Who are hemp topicals best for, and when are they the most effective?
What Are Hemp Topicals, and How Are They Different?
Firstly, it is essential to understand what is classified as hemp topical and how they are different from other types of hemp products.
Hemp products can be broken down into two main categories: those applied to the outer areas of the body and those that are ingested. There are many further sub-categories within these umbrellas, but the basic way the products work is determined by which of the two main categories they fall into.
Hemp products that are ingested include oils, capsules, edibles, and vape oils. In the second category are topicals, including creams, balms, sprays, and hair care products.
While all hemp products contain the same basic compounds, their usage affects what impacts they have on the body. Ingested hemp products can affect the entire body as they are processed through the bloodstream.
Hemp topicals are different because they only affect the parts of the body that they have come into contact with. For example, a hemp cream applied to dry skin on a person’s hand will only cause noticeable effects within that specific area.
The difference in how hemp products work determines when they are the most useful.
When Are Hemp Topicals the Most Effective?
The key with hemp topicals is that they must come into contact with the affected part of the body to be effective.
Hemp topicals are generally not the best option when treating internal health conditions such as headaches, insomnia, stress, and digestive issues. This is not to say that these products are completely useless in such cases.
For example, some hemp topicals can still have a relaxing effect, like hemp-infused bath bombs and scented creams; in turn, they can positively impact sleep and stress levels.
Hemp topicals are the most effective, though, when used to manage ailments where they can be applied directly.
Hemp topicals are especially useful when used as a form of pain relief on joints and stiff muscles. This is because the user can apply them to the painful area, and they can act quickly, providing pain relief when needed most.
Equally, hemp topicals are an excellent option for treating skin conditions and damaged skin. Using a hemp cream or ointment on skin that has become dry and painful can help it to heal and recover much quicker while also providing short-term pain relief.
The Benefits of Hemp Topicals
People often wonder why they should choose topicals over ingested hemp products. What are the benefits?
There are actually many benefits to choosing hemp topicals over other types of hemp products.
Firstly, the effects of hemp topicals can normally be felt much quicker than those of ingested hemp products. The compounds within topicals are applied directly and therefore do not have to be processed and travel through the body as other products do.
When using hemp topicals as a form of pain relief, their fast-acting effects can be highly beneficial. When faced with sudden feelings of pain, the products that can offer relief the quickest are generally the best.
Another considerable benefit of hemp topicals is that they allow for specific areas of the body to be treated while leaving the rest of the body unaffected. This can be key for people who are taking other hemp supplements or medications and do not want to alter the cannabinoid levels within their bodies.
Hemp topicals are particularly useful for treating short-term problems, especially when the effects of hemp are not required across the entire body.
Hemp topicals are also the best option for people looking to use hemp for beauty or cosmetic purposes. Many hemp-based face and body creams are designed to keep the skin hydrated and looking healthy. Other types of hemp products would not have the same cosmetic benefits.
