Since CBD rose to fame, we’ve come an awfully long way. Some of that progress has been transformational – a huge range of studies have been completed demonstrating a vast range of uses for CBD. The industry has exploded and continues to blossom, now under tightly regulated guidelines that help consumers feel confident about what they’re buying.
But as is always the case with things that become trends, a lot of CBD products have been introduced to the market that verges on the side of ludicrous. The likes of CBD-infused sportswear and pillows have entered the market with very little (if any!) science to back up their usefulness. But, while some new introductions aren’t really worth paying attention to, there has been incredible innovation within the CBD product industry that is making the user experience better and more efficient than ever.
One product, that taps into already well-established efficacy in the world of pharmaceutical drugs, is CBD patches – something hapihemp is delighted to now include in our carefully designed range.
Are CBD patches any good?
People are often sceptical of how great a CBD product that goes onto the skin rather than into the body (like oral drops or capsules) can be. But here’s the first point worth noting – CBD patches are transdermal, not topical. This means the CBD actually goes directly into the body through the skin, allowing for direct application to areas you want to give extra attention to. Perhaps bad knees, or a dodgy neck!
How long do CBD patches take to work?
Nicotine patches are one of the most commonly used patches for delivering a drug into the body. One study showed significant levels of nicotine in the saliva between 30 and 90 min after transdermal application of nicotine and, anecdotally, CBD appears to be similar.
However, once applied, it will take between 12-24 hours to reach peak levels and the gradual release of CBD into the body means you are given a steady, constant level over time – quite different to a one-off dose of CBD oral drops for example, which takes minutes to work but wears off after a few hours.
Where is the best place to put a CBD patch?
The real joy of a CBD patch is that you can target specific areas or, if you want overall circulation, apply it to an area where you can see a vein – like the crook of your arm. Wherever you apply the CBD is where it will get to work first, so stick it anywhere you feel needs extra attention – but do try to avoid anywhere with excess hair or broken skin, as this would be quite sore when you come to remove the patch!
Ensure your skin is clean and dry when applying the CBD patch, to ensure it stays put for as long as you want.
Can I shower when wearing a CBD patch?
Yes! These patches are super-sticky and waterproof, so go ahead and wash them as normal.
Should I use a CBD patch instead of a CBD oil?
You can if you want to, or you could top up with your favourite oil. It’s totally up to you and depends on how much CBD you usually like to take. If you do choose to use a CBD patch alongside an oil, just make sure you take into account the amount of CBD you’re already getting via your patch.
Do CBD patches help with sleep?
Although our CBD patches aren’t specifically designed to help with sleep, there are several mechanisms through which the CBD molecule has been shown to support a restful slumber. As CBD patches deliver the same CBD you’ll find on our oils, these all still apply, although most people see the biggest difference with sleep when they take higher doses of CBD – so you may wish to take a little extra if that’s what you’re after.
Multiple studies have explored the possibility of using CBD as a natural sleep aid, thanks to the molecule’s ability to directly activate serotonin receptors (an action which increases serotonin – a vital neurotransmitter for good sleep) and support the endocannabinoid system.
Do CBD transdermal patches get you high?
No, just as with all legal CBD products in the UK, our CBD patches will not get you high. Ours are actually THC-free!
Are CBD patches better than CBD oil or CBD edibles?
They all have their benefits! However, whereas CBD edibles have very low bioavailability (due to having to go through the digestive process and metabolism) and a lot of CBD oil is also lost during absorption (as it’s a fatty molecule and the human body is largely water, making it hard to mix), CBD patches bypass all of this and deliver CBD straight into your bloodstream through the skin.
Want to know more about CBD patches or about CBD in general? Feel free to get in touch.
