Cannabidiol (CBD) can be used for therapeutic and medical purposes in different ways. One of the popular ways of using it is in the form of topicals that provides localized relief because CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) on the skin surface. You must know that the ECS regulates homeostasis. Another similar way of using CBD is transdermal patches. Here, we will discuss in detail the difference between CBD topical and transdermal patches.
The Permeability Of Skin
Before discussing the difference between CBD topical and transdermal patches, let us understand the permeability of the skin. The skin is the largest organ in our body, and it acts as a physical barrier that protects the body from harmful substances, pathogens, etc. There are different layers to it, and the topmost layer is called the stratum corneum (SC). It is made up of keratinocytes that are surrounded by a lipid matrix; this forms a protective barrier. The palm and bottom of feet have thick SC layers, while the forehead, scalp, etc., have thin SC layers.
The Absorption Of CBD Into The Skin
The extent to which substances diffuse past the SC of the skin depends on the size and molecular structure. Small molecules and those that are lipid-soluble easily diffuse across the SC. CBD creams and balms as well as transdermal patches work well because cannabidiol (CBD) is a small molecule that is oil soluble.
CBD Topical Products
CBD topical products give quick localized relief from muscle and joint pain, inflammation, etc., because the cannabidiol molecules cannot diffuse past the SC of the skin. Furthermore, the ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and lanolin used in balms are bad at carrying active ingredients across the skin. The CBD present in these topical creams interact with the CBD interacts with the cannabinoid receptors of the ECS on the skin surface and produces its therapeutic effects locally.
CBD Transdermal Patches
CBD transdermal patches allow cannabidiol molecules to diffuse across the SC of the skin because it creates a diffusion gradient. As a result of this, cannabidiol (CBD)reaches the bloodstream and gives systemic relief from ailments. Moreover, to have good results it is better to apply it on the skin surface where the SC layer is thin.
On a final note, you must know that CBD topical and transdermal patches cannot cure the symptoms but can only mitigate the symptoms.
