THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are both associated with a number of potential health benefits. The main difference is in the chemical makeup and legality of each compound.
THC and CBD are both cannabinoids, which are chemical compounds derived from cannabis. However, THC is an intoxicating compound — in other words, it gets you high — while CBD is not intoxicating.
Both THC and CBD can be used to relieve localized pain or inflammation, but THC lotion may also offer additional benefits like muscle relaxation or a stronger sense of relief, depending on your needs and the product’s potency.
Another key difference is legality. CBD and THC aren’t always subjected to the same legal restrictions. Generally, THC products are illegal in more states.
The composition of THC and CBD lotions can vary from one product to the next. But, as the name suggests, THC is the most prevalent cannabinoid in THC lotion, and CBD is the most prevalent cannabinoid in CBD lotion.
THC lotion
THC lotions contain varying concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the main intoxicating compound in cannabis.
It’s not clear whether THC lotion can intoxicate you when it’s applied to your skin. However, THC can still interact with local receptors in the skin to offer relief from pain or discomfort.
CBD lotion
CBD lotions, on the other hand, are infused with cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis.
Some CBD lotions, particularly those that are “full-spectrum” CBD lotions, contain small amounts of THC. But if you’re looking to avoid THC altogether, there are a number of THC-free CBD lotions on the market.
Some lotions also contain a mix of both CBD and THC, which takes advantage of the “entourage effect” — a theory that suggests combining cannabinoids can enhance their therapeutic benefits.
Both THC lotion and CBD lotion could potentially address:
- Skin
issues - Localized pain
- Inflammation
There isn’t much data comparing whether THC lotion is better than CBD lotion at relieving these conditions or vice versa. For that reason, it’s not easy to say whether THC lotion is more suited to certain health issues or not.
However, research suggests that:
Again, though, this needs to be studied further before there’s a consensus on whether CBD or THC can really improve these symptoms.
Anecdotally, many people claim that THC lotion is more potent. However, this can also be because of the placebo effect. To determine the difference, more rigorous studies need to examine the uses of CBD vs THC lotion.
Both THC and CBD lotions are generally well tolerated. However, there are some risks and side effects you need to be aware of.
Skin irritation
As with all lotions, there’s always a risk of some localized irritation or contact dermatitis. This can be caused by cannabinoids or by other ingredients in the lotions, like certain fragrances.
If your skin is particularly sensitive, it might be a good idea to do a patch test whenever you use a new cosmetic product.
Intoxication
Some people do experience mild intoxicating effects after using potent THC lotions. It’s not entirely clear whether this is a placebo effect or a legitimate result of THC entering the bloodstream.
CBD, however, is non-intoxicating.
Drug testing
If you may be subjected to drug testing, it’s a good idea to avoid any lotions containing THC.
Even though topical application is unlikely to cause intoxication, trace amounts of THC may still enter the bloodstream. This could potentially show up on drug tests, depending on the product’s THC concentration and frequency of use.
It’s important to know that CBD does not stand up on standard drug tests.
Lack of regulation
Because the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate CBD or THC products, there’s no guarantee that your CBD or THC lotion isn’t mislabeled.
In fact, a
- 18 percent had >10% less CBD than advertised
- 58 percent had >10% more CBD than advertised
- Only 28 percent were accurately labeled
When purchasing CBD or THC lotion, it’s important to choose a quality product. Only opt for products that are third-party tested — they should have a certificate of analysis or lab report available online.
For a list of quality topicals, check out our 8 Best CBD Creams, Lotions, and Balms or our guide to the Best CBD Skincare Brands.
Both THC and CBD lotions are marketed as effective in providing localized relief for pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.
Although THC is intoxicating, it’s not clear whether you can get intoxicated by using THC topicals.
There’s a lack of research comparing the effectiveness of THC lotion to the effectiveness of CBD lotion.
If you’re unsure which option is best for your needs, consulting with a healthcare professional can help you make an informed decision.
Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information.