Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural phytocannabinoid found in cannabis that has been found to have beneficial anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. It can be applied topically to the skin in the form of gels, creams, and patches, and is designed to penetrate the skin barrier and reach the bloodstream. Recent studies in rats suggest that transdermal CBD has beneficial anti-inflammatory effects on the skin, and could potentially provide relief to people suffering from dermatitis, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. CBD works by stimulating a specific set of cannabinoid receptors called CB2 receptors.
To help CBD penetrate the skin, manufacturers formulate CBD patches and gels with penetration enhancers. Transdermal CBD gel has been found to reduce joint swelling, limb posture scores, immune cell infiltration, and synovial membrane thickening in a dose-dependent manner. It also has been found to improve pain scores without any side effects attributable to the active compounds or route of administration. Transdermal CBD patches are popular with athletes and people who maintain an active lifestyle because they offer hours of relief without having to worry about dosing or re-administering the product.
The terminal half-life of CBD after inhalation was found to be 27-35 hours, after intravenous injection it was 18-33 hours and after oral administration it was 2-5 days. In conclusion, CBD can be absorbed through the skin when using specifically designed transdermal products. These patches and gels contain specific amounts of CBD, along with permeation enhancers that help it pass through the skin barrier and into the bloodstream. This could potentially provide relief to people suffering from various skin conditions as well as those looking for long-lasting relief from pain.