Cannabis Topicals in Thailand
Cannabis topicals are quickly becoming popular in Thailand. After all, the country is well-known for its love for beauty and skincare products. Following the easing of cannabis rules – which paved the way for marijuana in cosmetics – it was only a matter of time before the two combined. As the cannabis industry blooms in Thailand, weed-infused topicals are hitting the shelves.
Different types of topicals
Gels, ointments, salves, balm, lotions, oils, shower gels, and shampoos – there is no limit to the kind of cannabis skincare products you can find here.
Most of these products are CBD-centric, which means they contain only trace amounts of THC. Per Thailand’s cannabis laws, cannabis cosmetic products cannot have more than 0.2% THC by weight.
You will also find topicals derived from hemp seed oil, similar to your regular cannabis – except they do not contain THC.
For best results, it is suggested that you opt for a product with cannabinoids and terpenes for the entourage effect.
Body lotions, serums, & skin creams
CBD has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that it can regulate the production of sebum, which contributes to acne. In addition, it can help reduce inflammation, hydrate dry skin, and provide relief from conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Many CBD skin creams and hydrating body lotions are towards these use cases.
Massage oils
Cannabis massage oils are quite popular as they relieve pain, relax your body, and support physical recovery. Some of these oils can also be taken orally to support the topical treatment. Popular choices include full-spectrum CBD oils.
Balms & salves
CBD balms and salves are medicinal and therapeutic. They provide pain relief and other healing benefits, making them a suitable option for those who need cannabis topicals to treat their health conditions.
Gels
Gels provide a cooling sensation, making them suitable for treating chronic pain, headaches, and sports-related injuries. Cannabis topical gels can also aid in physical recovery.
What is it
Cannabis topicals are products that are applied directly to the skin. Unlike weed smoke or CBD oil consumed orally, topicals are more ‘physical.’ Imagine a product like Tiger Balm but with weed.
Weed topicals have been in use for hundreds of years – with the earliest use tracing back to Egypt, where they used weed topically for inflammation.
Marijuana skin products can relieve inflammation and pain in the areas where they are applied. Some scientific evidence also states that these products can benefit the skin, owing to marijuana’s strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Topicals do not get you high
Even though some topicals may contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), they are non-intoxicating, allowing you to enjoy the goodness of the plants without the high. This is because weed is absorbed through the skin so slowly that you will not feel it mentally. Additionally, topical cannabis is absorbed through the skin layers only. It will not enter the bloodstream to the extent you will get high or have it show up in drug tests.
To get high with topical weed, you must use a high-THC concentration product or THC transdermal patches.
For this reason, topical cannabis products are also popular among professional athletes, where THC is considered a doping substance.
How do cannabis topicals work
You may know that the body absorbs cannabis via the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS has receptors throughout the body that bind to THC, CBD (cannabidiol), and other cannabinoids.
These receptors are also present in the skin layers. Topicals are absorbed through the skin pores, where the cannabinoids interact with the receptors and eventually enter the system. When this happens, you will likely start to feel the effects of the topical.
These effects can ease chronic pain, inflammation, muscle cramps, athletic recovery, menstrual cramps, skin conditions, and even arthritis.
How to use cannabis topicals
There is no standard dosage guide for cannabis cosmetics. It varies from product to product, and the information is usually printed on the label.
If you are new to weed topicals, apply a small amount to a small area on the skin to test the product. You may proceed with the treatment if you do not experience any allergic reactions or side effects. Alternatively, you can also consult a dermatologist to find a suitable product.
Cannabis topicals – especially the ones for pain – can take some time to kick in. Therefore, it is vital to use the product consistently – especially in the morning and at bedtime for best results.
Weed Review recommends buying topicals from reputed, trusted brands. The products should have a certificate of analysis (COA) and ingredient list. Ideally, they should also be approved by the Thai Food & Drugs Administration (FDA) – like the ones seen on Bloom.