When buying CBD cream for skin, the two things worth checking first are the CBD content stated in milligrams and the full ingredient list of the base cream. A high CBD content paired with a base that doesn't suit your skin type is still a poor match; both details matter together, not either one on its own.
CBD skin creams have become one of the most popular topical products on the market, but formulas vary widely between brands. This guide walks through exactly what to compare before you buy, so you can choose a product suited to your skin rather than just the highest number on the label.
What to Check Before You Buy
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What to check |
Why it matters |
|
CBD content in mg |
Lets you compare strength fairly across brands |
|
Base ingredients |
Determines whether the formula suits your skin |
|
Lab report |
Confirms the product matches its label |
1. CBD Content in Milligrams
CBD skin creams list their strength as a total milligram (mg) amount, usually printed on the front or back of the packaging. This figure is the fairest way to compare two products, since jar size and price per unit can make weaker formulas look like better value at a glance. There's no single "correct" strength to look for; what matters is comparing the mg per container consistently across the brands you're considering, rather than judging by price or jar size alone.
Blessed CBD's CBD Balm is formulated at 750mg, using full-spectrum hemp extract, so the strength is stated clearly on the label for exactly this kind of comparison.
2. Base Ingredients and Skin Type
The CBD content is only half the picture. The base cream and the carrier oils, butters, and moisturising agents that the CBD is blended into determine how the product feels on your skin. A rich, heavy balm suits dry or rough patches, while a lighter lotion may work better for everyday use or more sensitive areas.
Look at the full ingredient list, not just the marketing copy, and check it against products you already know suit your skin. For example, Blessed CBD's CBD Lotion range contains vitamin B5 and hydrating ingredients, and is sourced from organically grown, non-GMO hemp plants, with a formula intended for use first thing in the morning or last thing at night.
3. Lab Reports and Third-Party Testing
A genuine CBD skin cream should have a batch number and a linked Certificate of Analysis (CoA), an independent lab report confirming that the specific batch you're buying matches what's stated on the label. This is the single most reliable way to check that a product is what it claims to be, since CBD content can otherwise only be taken on trust.
Before buying, look for:
- A clearly stated CBD content in mg
- A batch number on the packaging
- A linked, independent lab report for that batch
If a brand can't provide this, it's worth treating the stated CBD content with caution.
How to Use CBD Cream on Skin
Most CBD creams are applied directly to clean, dry skin and gently massaged in, similarly to how you'd use any other moisturiser or balm. Some formulas, including Blessed CBD's CBD Balm, are commonly used after physical activity as part of a post-exercise skincare routine.* Lighter lotions are better suited to daily use across larger areas of skin.
It's also worth checking whether a product is intended for the face, the body, or both, since formulas differ. A rich body balm may be too heavy for facial skin, while a lighter face-specific cream may not go far enough for larger areas like hands or legs.
CBD Cream vs CBD Lotion vs CBD Balm
CBD creams, lotions, and balms differ in texture, absorption rate, and how they're typically used. Understanding the differences can help you choose a product that suits your preferences and skincare routine.
|
Feature |
|||
|
Texture |
Medium-weight and creamy |
Lightweight and fluid |
Thick, dense, and wax-like |
|
Absorption |
Moderate absorption |
Fast absorption |
Slower absorption |
|
Moisture Level |
Balanced hydration |
Light hydration |
Rich, long-lasting moisture |
|
Coverage |
Suitable for small to medium areas |
Easy to spread over larger areas |
Best for targeted application |
|
Typical Ingredients |
Water, oils, moisturisers, and CBD |
Higher water content with oils, moisturisers, and CBD |
Oils, waxes, butters, and CBD with little or no water |
|
Feel on Skin |
Smooth without feeling overly heavy |
Lightweight and less noticeable after application |
More protective and longer-lasting on the skin's surface |
|
Often Chosen For |
Everyday skincare routines |
Daily use across larger areas of skin |
Dry, rough, or heavily exposed areas that need a richer formula |
|
Best For |
People looking for a balance between hydration and absorption |
People who prefer a lighter product that absorbs quickly |
People who prefer a thicker product with a more concentrated feel |
Key Takeaway
CBD cream sits between a lotion and a balm in terms of texture and richness. Lotions are typically lighter and absorb more quickly, while balms are thicker and more concentrated in texture. The best choice depends on your skin type, preferred feel, and where you plan to apply the product rather than the CBD content alone.
FAQs
What CBD content should I look for in a skin cream?
There's no universal number to aim for. Comparing the stated mg per container across products is the most consistent way to shop, rather than relying on price or packaging size.
Does CBD cream suit all skin types?
The base formula varies by brand, so check the full ingredient list against what you already know works for your skin, rather than assuming all CBD creams behave the same way.
How do I know a CBD cream is genuine?
Look for a clearly stated CBD content, a batch number, and ideally a linked lab report confirming that specific batch was tested.
Can CBD cream be used on the face?
Some CBD creams are formulated specifically for the face, while others are designed for the body. Always check the intended use stated on the label before applying.
Choosing the Right Product
Once you know what to check, narrowing down a product is much easier. Start by comparing CBD content across a shortlist of creams, then weigh that against the base ingredients and how the formula suits your skin type. Finally, confirm the batch is backed by a lab report before you buy.
*It is important to note that the benefits of these products have not been conclusively proven. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and the NHS has not made any guarantees about the efficacy of such products.
