Updated for December, 2021

Top 10 Best CBD Creams for Pain – Top Picks for Seniors

Which CBD Cream Works Best?

CBD, which stands for Cannabidiol, is an extract of industrial hemp. Although an essential component of medical marijuana, it is directly derived from the Cannabis sativa plant — a cousin of the marijuana plant — and by itself does not cause a “high.”

CBD creams can be very productive in dealing with arthritis, chronic pain, general aches and pains, and common muscle and joint fatigue. The cream base works as a carrier agent, often with additional natural ingredients and essential oils to smoothly apply to affected areas.

A CBD topical differs from using CBD oils orally in that you can pinpoint target areas. CBD topicals might be a solution for temporary relief from chronic joint or muscle pain from arthritis, or general aches and pain from daily activities such as garden work or an exercise class. CBD is known to have possible beneficial and anti-inflammatory properties, and you can find a wide array of topical CBD products on the market. Some topical CBD products include CBD salve, CBD bath bombs, and CBD face creams. In this guide, we will focus on CBD creams that aid in pain relief for seniors.

Our Favorite CBD Cream

What Are the Best CBD Creams?

In shopping for a pain relief CBD cream, it’s crucial to take into consideration the potency, CBD source, where it was grown, additional ingredients (stick to natural and organic ingredients as much as possible), and price. When it comes to the CBD source, you’ll often see terms such as full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate, which refers to how the oil is extracted. While isolate and broad-spectrum ensure the oils used do not contain THC (which is the chemical attributed to the “high” given in smoking marijuana), full spectrum contains all the cannabinoids, including THC. Research has shown that THC and CBD work better together than not. However, any full-spectrum product will only contain 0.3 percent THC or less. Also, as we have pointed out, using a topical CBD product will not enter the bloodstream or cause a “high.”

The following products have been reviewed specifically for seniors, taking into consideration possible side effects and potential interactions with certain medical conditions.

Best CBD Cream for Pain

Spruce – Topical CBD Cream

Our Rating:
5
Price:
  • $39
Dosage:
  • 300mg of full-spectrum oil
Size:
  • 2 oz
Highlights:
  • Made with all-natural plant-derived scents
  • Free shipping within the Continental U.S.
  • Extracted from 100% organic, pesticide-free hemp
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online
  • Excellent customer service and generous return policy


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Spruce CBD is a family-run business based in Raleigh, NC, whose oils are sourced from organic hemp grown on two separate family-owned farms in Colorado and Kentucky. Their hemp is 100% pesticide-free and sustainably farmed.

Each 2oz jar contains 300mg of full-spectrum oil and is naturally scented using plant-derived ingredients. Its main base uses mineral oil and includes natural, organic, gluten-free ingredients. While 300mg may not be the strongest potency on the market, users rave about the results the cream had on their arthritis, joint issues, chronic inflamed tissue pain, and even restless leg syndrome.

On the Spruce website, customers are eager to send in video testimonials and leave glowing reviews, plus their customer service team is quick to respond to questions, issues, and work to help best determine customer needs.

Best CBD Cream for Inflammation

CBDfx – CBD Cream – 150mg (50 ml)

Our Rating:
4.5
Price:
  • $39.99
Dosage:
  • 150mg of broad-spectrum oil
Size:
  • 50ml
Highlights:
  • Includes caffeine to stimulate blood flow and help ease inflammation
  • Includes two natural analgesics: menthol and white willow bark
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online
  • GMO-free
  • CO2-based extraction process

Best Pure CBD Cream

Charlotte’s Web

Our Rating:
4.5
Price:
  • $49.99
Dosage:
  • 750mg of pure hemp extract
Size:
  • 2.5-ounce tube
Highlights:
  • Includes aloe, coconut oil, arnica, Shea butter to calm dry, itchy skin
  • Pairs vitamins B5 & E with rich apricot kernel oil to moisturize and nourish the skin
  • Available scented or unscented
  • Gluten and GMO-free, preservative-free, cruelty-free
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online

Best CBD Cream for Muscle and Joint Aches

MedTerra – CBD Rapid Cooling Cream

Our Rating:
4.5
Price:
  • $34.99 & $49.99
Dosage:
  • 250mg or 750mg of 99.6% pure CBD isolate
Size:
  • 2-ounce roll-on or 3.4-ounce pump bottle
Highlights:
  • Contains certified organic ingredients including menthol and arnica
  • Available online and in brick and mortar stores nationwide
  • Certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority, ensuring they meet stringent quality standards
  • Non-GMO, organic, pesticide-free
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online

Best CBD Cream for Back Pain

Veritas Farms – Full Spectrum CBD Sports Cream

Our Rating:
5
Price:
  • $29.99
Dosage:
  • 600mg of full-spectrum oil
Size:
  • 2-ounce tube
Highlights:
  • Great for concentrated back pain relief
  • Tailored specifically for athletes and active lifestyles
  • Farm-to-home full-spectrum hemp oil
  • Fragrance-free, cruelty-free, natural ingredients
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online

Best CBD Cream for Arthritis

CBDistillery – CBDol Topical Salve

Our Rating:
4.5
Price:
  • $50.00
Dosage:
  • 500mg of full-spectrum oil
Size:
  • 1-ounce tub
Highlights:
  • Contains aloe, arnica, beeswax, cinnamon, coconut oil, eucalyptus, frankincense, lavender, tea tree, hemp seed oil, wintergreen, and other essential oils
  • Extracted from the mature stalks and stems of the hemp plant
  • Offers a veteran’s discount program
  • Also great for skin conditions and chronic pain
  • U.S. Hemp Authority certified & ISO 9001:2015 certified (International certification)
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online

While we have been focusing on CBD creams for this guide, CBDistillery’s CBDol Topical Salve caught our attention due to its beneficial results in dealing with the pain caused by arthritis. The only real difference between CBD creams and salves is the amount of water used in production. CBD salves are much thicker, using little to no water at all.

Colorado-based CBDistillery is one of the most popular CBD manufacturers in the market, with an extensive line of products and new ones released all the time. They even have a veteran’s discount program available for Veterans, Active Military Members, Fire Fighters, Police Officers, and EMTs.

This 1-ounce tub of topical salve may not seem like much, but there is a lot of CBD packed in that ounce with 500mg of full-spectrum CBD extracted from mature stalks and stems of the hemp plant. The process of crushing and grinding these robust herbs works to combine all the natural benefits of CBD straight to affected arthritic areas. This product is another case of a tiny bit of salve packing an extreme amount of pain relief, and consumer reviews claimed effective relief within minutes.

Best CBD Cream for Eczema

FAB CBD – Topical CBD Cream

Our Rating:
4.5
Price:
  • $49.00
Dosage:
  • 600mg of full-spectrum oil
Size:
  • 2-ounce tub
Highlights:
  • Contains aloe vera, cocoa butter, coconut oil, vitamin E, and CO2 extracted hemp oil
  • Is 3x stronger than most of the competition when it comes to potency
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online
  • Full refund within 30 days
  • Features a subtle blood orange scent

Best CBD Face Cream

Cannuka – CBD Harmonizing Face Cream

Our Rating:
4.5
Price:
  • $58.00
Dosage:
  • 100mg isolate oil
Size:
  • 3.2-ounce pump
Highlights:
  • Contains Manuka honey, beeswax, ale, rosehip oil, witch hazel, and cucumber extract
  • Rich in nutrients
  • Available online as well as at retailers such as Ulta and Neiman Marcus
  • Great for dry and irritated skin
  • Can be used as a calming aftershave for men

Best CBD Daily Cream

Dixie Botanicals – CBD Sunscreen

Our Rating:
5
Price:
  • $21.99
Dosage:
  • 100mg isolate oil
Size:
  • 4-ounce tube
Highlights:
  • Water-resistant
  • UVA/UVB broad-spectrum sun protection
  • Nourishes, balances, and protects the skin
  • Features a tropical fragrance of coconut, mango, and guava
  • Triple lab tested, ensuring natural products free from contaminants and of the highest quality possible

Best 1,000mg CBD Cream

Veritas Farms – Full Spectrum Lotion, 1,000mg

Our Rating:
5
Price:
  • $94.99
Dosage:
  • 1000mg full-spectrum oil
Size:
  • 2-ounce tub
Highlights:
  • Contains all-natural, full-spectrum hemp extract with organic extra-virgin coconut oil and organic beeswax
  • Choice of unscented, lavender eucalyptus, or cooling menthol
  • Independent, third-party lab tested; results available online
  • Farm-to-home full-spectrum hemp oil
  • Fragrance-free, cruelty-free, natural ingredients

Will CBD Cream Help with Pain Relief?

CBD cream may include anti-inflammatory properties to ease pain, the effects of arthritis, and muscle and joint pain and fatigue. A 2016 study using rats “indicates that topical CBD application has therapeutic potential for relief of arthritis pain-related behaviors and inflammation without evident side effects.”

The potency is the most important thing to consider when selecting a cream. CBD cream doesn’t produce effects as quickly as CBD oil, so it’s vital to look for a product containing at least 200mg of CBD. When dealing with severe pain and inflammation, you can safely consider a product with up to 1,000mg CBD per container.

How Does Topical CBD Cream Work?

The outer layer of our skin (epidermis) is pretty tough since it serves as a barrier against UV rays and harmful chemicals. CBD topical creams are formulated to absorb into the skin, and they usually contain lotions and other ingredients that moisturize and restore the skin. Topicals applied to the epidermis do not enter the bloodstream, and rarely do they interact with medications. Creams tend to be thicker than lotions — and typically include ingredients such as shea butter, aloe vera, coconut oil, and nutrients that are not only beneficial to the body but aid in carrying and applying the cannabidiol to affected areas.

How Much CBD Cream Should I Use?

A small amount used on the affected area will go a long way. Again, this is where potency and the mg of CBD used is an essential factor to consider when making a purchase. To use CBD cream, apply it with your fingers directly to the affected area, and massage into the skin. Make sure the cream absorbs before applying more. If you’re using a topical for pain, you should feel the effects reasonably quickly; depending on the additional ingredients in the cream; you may feel a cooling or warming sensation.

CBD creams are generally acknowledged as safe with very few side effects, but there are instances where they may occur. As with any topical, be sure to read the packaging and only use it externally. You may also need to consult with a doctor before use.

Common FAQs

Does CBD cream work immediately on joint pain?

Some of the CBD creams we’ve highlighted in this guide have had customer reviews stating they experienced relief within minutes of application, while others noticed relief some 15 to 30 minutes later. CBD creams partnered with natural analgesics like menthol or white willow bark often offer an immediate cooling or warming sensation. The potency is essential when choosing a CBD cream for pain relief, so the higher strength, the stronger and longer-lasting results will be achieved.

Does CBD cream help with chronic pain?

Chronic pain varies in seniors depending on their medical condition, location of pain, and current level of activity. Once again, potency is essential in choosing a CBD cream, so the higher the strength, the more beneficial the application will be.

What is the difference between CBD oil and cream?
A CBD topical differs from using CBD oils orally in that you can pinpoint target areas, and it is applied to the outer layer of skin, the epidermis, which serves as a barrier against UV rays and harmful chemicals. As such, CBD topical creams affect the surface and the layers of your skin but does not enter the bloodstream. CBD oil, on the other hand, is generally taken orally and does enter the bloodstream. It can address several medical conditions from pain and inflammation to anxiety and depression, and even insomnia.
What is CBD cream best used for?
CBD cream is best used when you need to target a specific area or condition such as arthritis, general muscle, and joint pain, inflammation, and everyday aches and pain. The natural anti-inflammatory properties of CBD cream works best by applying a small amount to the affected area. CBD cream is also beneficial for skin conditions such as eczema, shingles, dry and itchy skin, and dermatitis.
Are there any side effects?

CBD creams are recognized as safe and beneficial with few to zero side effects, although they do occur occasionally. Possible side effects include fatigue, changes in appetite, changes in weight, and diarrhea. As CBD cream is a topical and doesn’t typically enter the bloodstream, there is a slight possibility it may interact with some medications.

Conclusion

Studies and acceptance of CBD have been overwhelming over the last few years, and as a result, using it no longer has the stigma held over from days of old. It’s been proven that CBD creams can be very productive in dealing with arthritis, chronic pain, general aches and pains, and common muscle and joint fatigue, as well as general skincare and helping with chronic skin conditions.

Consider your pain, medical conditions, and affected areas, and talk with your doctor before using a CBD topical. Your doctor will know if there are any contraindications in regard to your condition or any medications you may be taking.

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