Peek Inside: Proofly’s Cannabis Topicals
Unlike edibles and inhalables, cannabis topicals work their magic on the skin’s surface. But how do they work, how do you use them, and can topicals get you high? Join us as we peek under the lid of topicals in our interview with Dr. Nan Li, Founder and Chair of Lupos (Canada) Biotechnology Inc., the parent company of Proofly, best known for their CBD Relief Cooling Gel and THC-Free Muscle & Joint Cream.
What are cannabis topicals?
“Topicals are unique in that they are the only cannabis consumption method where the benefits of cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, are localized to specific areas of the body without impacting cognitive abilities. People use them for similar reasons they use other creams, but with the added quality of plant-based compounds. This is what drove our team to focus on creating cannabis-infused topicals, and it has remained our focus since day one.”
How are cannabis topicals made?
“Creating a topical starts with sourcing high-quality biomass and ingredient suppliers. Then the extraction, distillation, and isolated production is done in-house. Lupos uses classic food-grade ethanol to extract the cannabinoids in a purification process by adjusting heating and pressure parameters to extract cannabinoids effectively.”
The inputs matter.
“We take pride in using high-quality materials from our valued partners. Over 90% of our cannabis input material comes from BC Hemp producers.”
Made with care.
“Except for cultivation, we are vertically integrated and control the entire process from extractions to packaging while maintaining a high standard of quality. Controlling this chain in-house allows us to consistently test and produce great products at a competitive price point.”
What are some commonly found ingredients?
“All our topicals contain either CBD, THC, or both. Most also include menthol for a natural cooling effect. Our products also include natural ingredients commonly found in skincare products, such as cocoa butter, jojoba oil, babassu oil, aloe, and Gotu Kola for added hydration. Arnica is another commonly found ingredient in topicals, as it’s believed to potentially have natural pain-relieving properties in many parts of the world.”
How to cannabis topicals work?
“The cannabinoids in topicals are processed by the body differently than they are with other forms of consumption, such as inhalation and ingestion. When cannabis extracts are applied to the skin, hair or nails, the product is absorbed and the cannabinoids bind to a network of receptors in the immune system called CB2, which is part of the Endocannabinoid System. Effects will generally be felt on the area the product is applied to rather than throughout the entire body. As a result, there is minimal potential for intoxicating effects.
For example, Proofly Extra Strength CBD Relief Cooling Gel combines CBD with menthol and camphor to create an initial cooling sensation followed by soothing warmth. Because topicals have minimal potential for intoxication, they don’t require the same ‘start low and go slow’ approach as other cannabis products. When shopping for a topical, be sure to ask your consultant any questions you may have and see if they can suggest products that may suit your needs best.”
Can cannabis topicals get you "high"?
“Unlike smoking dried cannabis, which produces an intoxicating effect within minutes, or edibles, which may take much longer, the effect of intoxication after applying a cannabis-extract–infused topical product is believed to be very low. What we can say is that having sold and shipped over 1,000,000 topicals since the beginning of legalization, we’ve never had an adverse reaction where a user got “high” from our topicals.
When you apply a topical to the skin, the cannabinoids bind to endocannabinoid receptors into your epidermal system, but do not enter your bloodstream. You may feel tingling or muscle relaxation, but it’s highly unlikely you’ll experience the psychoactive effects associated with other forms of cannabis that contain THC. Current regulations for topicals allow for no more than 1,000mg of THC in a package. However, if you want to avoid THC all together, you can look out for Extra Strength CBD 2000 Relief Muscle & Joint Cream.”
How do you use cannabis topicals?
“Topicals come in many different forms, ranging from gels to bath bombs. Some of the options include:
- Creams and salves
- Cooling gels and sticks
- Roll-ons
- Lip balms
- Lubricates and massage oils
- Bath bombs, salts, and soaks
- Transdermal products such as patches
There is no general guideline for how much of a cannabis topical should be applied. Start with a small amount and gradually increase it if needed. This approach allows you to gauge your body’s response and determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs. It is always better to start with less and add more, if necessary, rather than applying too much and experiencing unwanted effects.
Additionally, it’s important to follow the Licensed Producer's directions provided with the product. These directions will often include information on how much to apply, how often to use the product, and any precautions or warnings to be aware of. By following these directions, you can ensure you are using the product safely and effectively.”
What should consumers look for when choosing a CBD Relief Cooling Gels or other cannabis topicals?
“Finding the right product is personal. There is no one best topical that can be applied to everyone. What may work for one person may not work for another, and vice versa.
Unfortunately, stigma still prevents some people from exploring cannabis topicals. Being sold exclusively in cannabis stores also hinders some users from entering a store due to access, fear, or not knowing where/how to find products.
Always check the label: Some products may have a higher concentration of THC, while others may have a higher concentration of CBD. If still in doubt, consult with the provider.
While their ingredients may vary, every cannabis topical product starts with a base that will contain the cannabinoids. It’s not surprising that producers use the same elements of skincare products — such as cocoa butter, beeswax, argan oil, etc.— to provide consumers with a similar experience.”
Don’t know which product to try?
Consider answering these questions:
Do you want a THC-Free cream or are you okay with THC?
If you don’t want THC, try the Proofly Extra Strength CBD 2000 Relief Muscle & Joint Cream which has 2000mg of CBD and 0mg of THC.
Do you like a strong cooling sensation?
If not, choose a topical with no or little menthol.
Do you want a gel-based product or a cream?
Gels have a quicker rate of absorption while creams are generally more oily, and contain more hydrating ingredients to moisturize your skin. If you like a gel-based topical, try the Proofly Extra Strength CBD Relief Cooling Gel, our #1 best-selling topical.
Are minor cannabinoids, such as CBG or CBC, important for you?
If yes or unsure, try the Proofly Full Spectrum CBG + CBD + THC Relief Cream which has equal parts CBG, CBD and THC for an entourage effect.
If you’re thinking of trying cannabis topicals to manage symptoms associated with a medical condition, it’s best to consult with your healthcare professional and choose a product based on their recommendation and course of action.
Whether you’re new to cannabis topicals or looking for a new quality product, BC Cannabis offers a variety of options to suit different needs. Explore our full selection of topicals here.
Shop all Proofly’s products here.
