For a long time, most people thought about cannabis in one way: you use it to get high. So when you walk into the shop and see a shelf full of cannabis infused lotions, balms, and patches, it is normal to wonder if any of it really does anything.
We hear some version of this every day at our dispensary in Blackstone: “Is this just expensive lotion, or is there a reason people add these to their self-care routine?”
The short answer is: yes, cannabis topicals are a unique and popular category, but not for the same reasons as a joint or an edible.
So, What Do They Actually Do? (And Why They Won’t Get You High)
Here is the most important starting point: standard cannabis topicals are not designed to get you high. They are non intoxicating for typical use.
Your skin is built to protect you. It is very good at keeping things out. When you rub a cannabis infused lotion or balm on your skin, the cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) are absorbed only into the layers of skin and nearby tissues. There, they can interact with local cannabinoid receptors.
In normal use, they do not reach your bloodstream in amounts that would cause a mental high. No noticeable cannabinoids in the blood means no noticeable psychoactive effect.
That is why people reach for topicals when they want:
- A localized experience
- No change in mood or headspace
- Something they can still use before work, with kids around, or before they drive later
You get the plant working where you put it, without feeling “stoned” from it.
The One Big Exception: Transdermal Patches
There is one category that works differently.
Transdermal patches are specially formulated so cannabinoids can cross that skin barrier and enter the bloodstream. That is the whole point. A patch slowly delivers THC, CBD, or a mix into your system over several hours.
Because of that, a transdermal patch can be intoxicating and feel more like a gentle, long lasting edible. It is not the same thing as rubbing a little balm into your wrist.
Balms, Lotions, and Patches: What’s the Difference?
Once you start browsing the topical menu, you will see a few main types. Here is a simple way to think about them.
Lotions and Creams
- Usually water based
- Absorb quickly and feel like a regular moisturizer
- Good for larger areas like your back, legs, or shoulders
- Nice choice for general skin hydration
If you do not like anything greasy on your skin, lotion is often the place to start.
Balms and Salves
- Thicker, oil or wax based
- Sit on the surface a bit longer and create a protective layer
- Great for very specific spots: one knee, one knuckle, specific sections of your neck or shoulder
- Often combined with ingredients like menthol or arnica for extra sensation
Think of these as “spot treatment” topicals. A little goes a long way.
Transdermal Patches
- Designed to deliver cannabinoids through the skin and into the bloodstream
- Provide a slow, steady dose over several hours
- Can be intoxicating, with more of a full body effect
These are used when someone wants longer lasting, whole body support instead of just local relief.
(Transdermal Patches are more specialized products, and we don’t currently stock these are DDM in Blackstone).
How Do People Use Topicals?
Because most topicals stay local, they are a go to option for people who wand a physical experience without changing how they feel mentally.
Some common reasons our customers use them:
- Ss part of a post-workout or hiking cool-down routine.
- For unwinding after a long day of computer work.
- To enhance a relaxing massage on the temples, shoulders, or wrists.
- As a part of a self-care ritual for your hands, knees, or elbows.
We see everyone from weekend pickleball players to busy parents come in looking for this type of product to add to their wellness toolkit.
Note: Topicals are not a cure or a medical treatment, and they are not meant to replace advice from your doctor, but they can be a useful tool in your overall comfort toolkit.
How to Choose the Right Topical at Our Blackstone Dispensary
When you look at our topical menu, you’ll see a lot of options. The best one for you depends on your goal. We recommend looking for two things:
- The Cannabinoid Ratio: You’ll see products that are all-CBD, all-THC, or a mix. A 1:1 ratio of CBD:THC is a very popular starting point for a balm or salve, as many people find the two cannabinoids work better together. If you’re unsure, our “What Is a Cannabinoid Ratio” blog post is a great place to start.
- The Other Ingredients: Look for other soothing ingredients you love, like menthol, arnica, or lavender, which can add cooling or calming effects.
Staff Pick Lotion: Attune Muscle Freeze 1:1 Cooling Menthol
Staff Pick Balm: Extreme X 1:1 THC/CBD Body Rub
This is what our team is here for. We love helping people find the right wellness product. Whether you’re coming from just down the street in Blackstone, making a quick trip from Uxbridge or Franklin, or visiting us from Woonsocket, RI, our team can guide you.
Our Final Verdict
Cannabis topicals are an amazing tool for your wellness kit. They are a popular, non-intoxicating way to apply cannabis to a specific area. Got questions? Stop by DDM Cannabis in Blackstone. We’ll be happy to walk you through our full selection of Topicals, Balms, and Lotions and find the one that’s right for you.
