How Do Cannabis Topicals Work? A Local Guide to Relief Without the High in Franklin Park, NJ

July 21, 2025

Welcome to the world of cannabis topicals – the unsung heroes of weed wellness. These little miracles are here to chill your sore muscles, tame that cranky joint pain, deal with inflammation like a pro, and all without launching you into orbit.

If you’ve ever wanted to dip your toes into the cannabis pool without taking a cannonball hit to the brain, this is it. This is your complete guide to cannabis topicals – explained the Theo way.

What Are Cannabis Topicals, Anyway?

Various jars of green cannabis topicals and salves arranged on a wooden surface, with a cannabis leaf displayed beside them against a brick wall background.

Cannabis topicals are like the skincare aisle and your favorite dispensary had a baby. They’re lotions, balms, creams, oils, all infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, and they’re applied directly to the skin.

These beauties aren’t here to get you high. They’re here to make you feel good. Think localized relief for sore knees, tight shoulders, post-leg-day regret, and nope, they don’t enter the bloodstream (unless we’re talking transdermals, which are a different beast).

Topicals come in all kinds of forms, and they’re one of the most underrated ways to use cannabis products. You could be slathering on a cannabis cream, dabbing a balm, or rolling on a recovery stick. Applying cannabis topicals is a no-fuss, no-smoke experience that still lets you explore the benefits of cannabis.

So… How Do Cannabis Topicals Work?

Alright, science moment: topicals work by talking to your body’s endocannabinoid system: your ECS. This system runs all throughout your body and plays a big role in stuff like pain, inflammation, and irritation. (Basically, it’s the body’s chill manager.)

Upon the use of cannabis topical, cannabinoids like THC and CBD bind to receptors (CB1 and CB2) in your skin. They don’t get you stoned, but they do tell your body, “Hey, let’s ease up on the pain right here.” It’s kind of magical.

Topicals may provide fast, localized relief without any psychoactive effects. Just the chill. No brain fog.

Topicals typically stay in the skin’s upper layers and don’t reach the bloodstream, which is why they’re a great choice for those seeking relief without the high. And if you’re using topicals infused with cannabinoids like CBG, you’re getting a well-rounded experience in the realm of cannabis.

Types of Cannabis Topicals (So Many Ways to Rub It In)

Here’s a peek at the types of cannabis topicals you’ll find on dispensary shelves:

  • Lotion: Smooth, light, and perfect for daily use. Like a spa day with benefits.
  • Balm: Think thicker and more concentrated – like a deep-tissue massage in a tin.
  • Cream: A happy medium. Absorbs well and delivers the good stuff.
  • Oil: For the sensual ones. Ideal for massage or sensitive skin zones.
  • Transdermal Patch: These are like weed Band-Aids. They do enter the bloodstream and may have mild psychoactive effects.

Some topicals are CBD-only. Some mix it up with THC. Others come packed with both, and we love a good cannabinoid collab. Choosing cannabis topicals isn’t one-size-fits-all, it’s about what you need that day, on that body part, for that reason.

Why Use Cannabis Topicals?

A man seen from behind clutching his upper back and shoulder, with a red-highlighted area indicating muscle pain or inflammation.

Because sometimes you just want your shoulder to stop yelling at you without feeling like you need to nap for 3 hours.

  • Targeted relief right where it hurts
  • No psychoactive effects (unless it’s transdermal, read the label!)
  • Gentle on skin – helpful for eczema, psoriasis, or just dry winter elbows
  • Discreet – rub it on, go about your day, no worries

Cannabis topicals are products designed to provide localized relief from pain and inflammation, whether you’re tackling chronic pain, conditions like arthritis, or just a stubborn sore muscle. Using topicals is a top choice for those seeking relief without the psychoactive effects usually associated with cannabis consumption.

Do THC Topicals Get You High?

Short answer? Nah. Most cannabis topicals, even ones with THC, don’t get you high because they don’t enter the bloodstream.

The cannabinoids stay in the outer layers of your skin, doing their thing locally. The only exception? Transdermal patches. Those can sneak through and deliver mild psychoactive effects.

Otherwise, rub away. You’ll stay clear-headed.

CBD vs THC: The Face-Off (But They’re Buds)

  • CBD Topicals: Great for calming inflammation, soreness, and irritated skin.
  • THC Topicals: Often better for deeper pain relief and muscle tension.
  • CBD + THC Combo: Welcome to the entourage effect where the combo does more than either solo. Synergy, baby.

If your preference is CBD or THC, or a good ol’ blend of both, cannabis topicals may be the most low-key way to experience what cannabinoids like THC and CBD can really do.

Who’s Gonna Love Cannabis Topicals?

  • Gym warriors with post-leg-day regrets
  • Desk jockeys with stiff necks
  • Weekend warriors and chronic pain champs
  • Folks with skin stuff like eczema
  • Anyone stressed, sore, or just trying to feel a little more human

Topicals can offer serious relief for pain and inflammation without entering the bloodstream or altering your vibe. If you’re new to cannabis, using cannabis topicals is the smoothest entry point into the cannabis plant’s benefits.

Applying Cannabis Topicals: The Art of the Rub-Down

  • Clean the area first (you want those cannabinoids working, not fighting dirt)
  • Use a small amount, a little goes a long way
  • Massage it in. Pretend you’re your own spa therapist
  • Wait 10–30 minutes. Your body needs time to chill
  • Reapply as needed like snacks, but for your skin

Bonus tip: Topicals interact with the body’s receptors in a way that delivers targeted relief. Applying cannabis topicals multiple times a day is totally fair game; just listen to your body and go with what feels good.

What’s In Store at Theo? (AKA: Product Picks We’re Loving Right Now)

Graphic featuring two cannabis topical products — Doctor Solomon’s Rescue Lotion and DROOL Recovery Stick — with a cartoon of Theo saying “Theo Approved!” surrounded by lush green leaves.

Alright, let’s get specific. If you’re in Franklin Park and wondering what topical to grab at Theo, here’s what’s on our shelves:

DROOL Recovery Stick 1:1:1 (THC:CBG:CBD)

This bad boy is a triple threat. Equal parts THC, CBG, and CBD, rolled into one handy stick that goes hard on inflammation and muscle soreness. Perfect for after a workout, or after lifting that one box you swore “wasn’t that heavy.”

Smells chill, goes on smooth, and delivers the goods fast.

Buy DROOL Recovery Stick here!

DOCTOR SOLOMON’S Restore Lotion

Think of this like a skincare serum with a degree in pain relief. It’s a luxurious lotion infused with cannabinoids that targets everything from tight shoulders to tech neck. Light, creamy, non-greasy, and absolutely gift-worthy. (Or keep it for yourself. We’re not judging.)

Buy DOCTOR SOLOMON’s Restore Lotion here!

Where to Snag These Goodies (Hint: Right Here)

Swing by our dispensary in Franklin NJ and snag the right cannabis topical for whatever your body’s complaining about. Our budtenders are chill, know their stuff, and can help you find the perfect match. But if you’re the type to just browse online, you can check out our online shop (we deliver, by the way!)

You want that stick, that lotion, or just wanna smell everything first? We at Theo A Cannabis Co. got you. Choosing cannabis products should feel like shopping for comfort food not a chemistry exam.

Bonus: Skin Deep – Topicals for Skin Conditions

Did we mention cannabis topicals may also be superstars for skin conditions? People have reported benefits of cannabis topicals for things like:

  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Acne
  • General skin irritation

Topicals like CBD lotions or cannabis-infused creams can calm down flare-ups and keep your skin feeling balanced. It’s wellness, but make it lowkey.

Final Thoughts

Cannabis topicals are the plug for everyday relief without the ride. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, skin stuff, or general “I’m-too-young-for-my-body-to-hurt-like-this” vibes, these topicals offer a super approachable way to use cannabis.

Topical cannabis products are discreet, effective, and vibe-friendly, and when they’re infused with cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and even CBG, you’re getting a tailored solution for your aches, pains, and skincare woes.

No clouds, no confusion, just good ingredients doing good work.

So next time your shoulder’s acting up or your knees feel like they’re 80 years old, skip the pills and rub a little green on it instead.

Need help finding your match? Come through to NJ Theo in Franklin Park, NJ: your neighborhood spot for cannabis topicals and a whole lot more.

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