Article · 3 min read
CBD Topicals vs CBD Oil
Should you choose CBD cream or CBD oil? Learn how topicals and oils work differently, who each one is best for, and when to use both.
CBD oil and CBD topical cream are two of the most popular ways to use CBD. But they work very differently. Choosing the wrong format means you might not get the experience you are looking for.
This guide explains how each one works, who it is best for, and when it makes sense to use both.
How CBD Oil Works
CBD oil is taken sublingually -- you place drops under your tongue using a dropper, hold for 60 to 90 seconds, and swallow. The CBD absorbs through the thin tissue under your tongue and enters your bloodstream.
Because it reaches your bloodstream, CBD oil is a whole-body product. It interacts with your endocannabinoid system throughout your entire body. This makes oil a good choice for a general daily routine.
Onset time: 15-45 minutes Duration: 4-6 hours (varies by individual) Best for: A daily routine
Our 1000mg CBD Oil is our best-selling product. Full spectrum, Farm Bill compliant with less than 0.3% THC, with a Certificate of Analysis available on the product page.
How CBD Topicals Work
CBD topical cream is applied directly to the skin. You rub it into the area where you want to use it -- a shoulder, knee, lower back, or wherever you choose.
Topical CBD does not enter your bloodstream. Instead, it interacts with cannabinoid receptors in your skin and the tissue directly beneath it. This makes topicals a localized product rather than a whole-body one.
Onset time: 15-30 minutes at the application site Duration: 2-4 hours (varies by individual and amount applied) Best for: Targeted application to specific areas
Our 500mg CBD Topical Cream is made with a proprietary blend of essential oils and is designed for targeted use. It is a full spectrum product, Farm Bill compliant with less than 0.3% THC.
Key Differences
Absorption. Oil enters the bloodstream. Topicals stay local to the area of application.
Coverage. Oil is taken internally and acts throughout the body. Topicals are applied to a specific area.
Speed. Both take roughly 15-45 minutes, but they work in different parts of the body.
Drug testing. Both products are full spectrum and contain trace THC. Topical CBD is not meant to enter the bloodstream, but if you are drug tested, talk to your employer before using either one.
Use case. Choose oil when you want a daily, whole-body routine. Choose topical when you want to apply it to a specific area.
When to Use Both
Many of our customers use both products as part of their daily routine. Here is a common pattern:
Morning: Take CBD oil as part of your daily routine. After activity: Apply topical cream to the area of your choice. Evening: Take CBD oil again if that fits your schedule.
Our Active Routine Bundle includes CBD oil, topical cream, and capsules in one package. It is designed for people who want a complete routine covering multiple delivery methods.
Which One Should You Try First?
If you are new to CBD and want to start with one product:
Choose oil if you want a daily, whole-body routine. Choose topical if you have a specific area of the body you want to apply it to. Choose the bundle if you want to try both and save money compared to buying them separately.
There is no wrong answer. Both are Farm Bill compliant, full spectrum with less than 0.3% THC, and backed by a Certificate of Analysis.
Written by the Cross Country Wellness team.
Reviewed by J Bird before publication.
*Not evaluated by the FDA. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
