CBD Bath Bombs Unfizzed: Topical or Transdermal?

As CBD bath bombs soak up the spotlight in the wellness world, there’s one question bubbling to the surface: Are CBD bath bombs transdermal or topical? 

It’s crucial to get this right because it determines what kind of CBD benefits we’re actually soaking up. If you’re dreaming of CBD seeping into your bloodstream while you relax in a tub, you might need to adjust your expectations. Stick around as we spill the (bath)water on how they work and clear up any confusion about their true effects.

The Different CBD Delivery Methods 

Let’s start with a crash course in CBD 101. There are a few ways CBD can be absorbed depending on what you’re looking to achieve. Here are the various ways to get your daily dose of cannabidiol:

1. Ingestible: Whether it’s in the form of gummies, tinctures, or capsules, ingesting CBD allows the compound to travel through your digestive system and bloodstream to provide full-body effects. This is typically slower but can last longer.

2. Inhalable: CBD vapes and flower fall into this category. Inhalation sends CBD straight to your lungs and into the bloodstream, making it one of the fastest ways to feel the effects.

3. Topical: These products are applied directly to the skin and interact with cannabinoid receptors on the surface. Topical CBD is ideal for providing localized relief, such as soothing sore muscles or calming irritated skin. 

4. Transdermal: These products are designed to penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. Transdermal CBD provides broader effects because it moves beyond the skin’s surface. This method is often used for systemic relief, such as patches that deliver CBD throughout the body over time.

 

Transdermal vs. Topical CBD Application

Let’s break down these two methods of applying CBD to your skin so you can get clear on what’s what. In summary, transdermal CBD provides full body effects while topical CBD provides localized effects. 

Full-body effects refer to the overall impact CBD can have when it enters the bloodstream, affecting various systems in the body, including the central nervous system. When CBD is absorbed this way, it can influence mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin, which is why people often use CBD to manage anxiety, stress, or other mood-related issues.

A localized effect means that the CBD works directly on the area where it is applied, rather than affecting the whole body. It's all about that local action, making them perfect for skincare and tackling pain in a specific area.

• Transdermal CBD is formulated to penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. Think of it as a deeper dive—these products go beyond just the skin and can provide broader effects because the CBD gets absorbed into your system. Examples include:

• CBD Patches: These adhere to your skin and deliver a consistent dose of CBD over time, ideal for systemic relief.

• Transdermal CBD Gels: These are typically applied to areas with thinner skin, like the wrists, allowing CBD to penetrate more easily and enter the bloodstream.

• Topical CBD is designed to stay on the surface of your skin, interacting with the cannabinoid receptors there. Topical CBD application provides localized relief and helps with issues like muscle soreness, joint pain, or skin irritation without entering the bloodstream. Examples include:

• CBD Lotions: Ideal for everyday use to soothe and moisturize your skin while providing localized relief.

• CBD Salves: Often used for targeted relief of sore muscles or joint pain.

• CBD Creams: Great for skin conditions or general relaxation.

• CBD Bath Bombs: Perfect for a relaxing bath that targets specific areas of discomfort with their fizzing, soothing properties.

Benefits of Transdermal CBD vs. Topical CBD

When it comes to choosing between transdermal and topical CBD, each method offers unique benefits tailored to different needs. It all depends on what ails you, so choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and desired effects.Here’s a closer look at what each can provide:

Benefits of Transdermal CBD

If you’re looking for full-body effects or need to treat a more systemic issue, a transdermal application is the way to go. This method is great for ongoing pain management, anxiety, or inflammation throughout the body because it delivers CBD into your bloodstream.

• Systemic Relief: Transdermal CBD is designed to penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. This allows it to provide broader, systemic effects throughout the body, making it ideal for managing chronic conditions or widespread discomfort.

• Extended Release: Many transdermal products, such as patches, offer a steady, controlled release of CBD over an extended period. This can be beneficial for consistent, long-term relief without the need for frequent reapplication.

• Convenience: Transdermal patches are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. Once applied, they provide ongoing relief without needing constant attention.

Benefits of Topical CBD

Topical CBD is best for targeted relief—like a stiff neck, achy joints, or even skincare issues. They focus on a specific area and offer relief where you need it most. 

• Localized Relief: Topical CBD products, like creams and balms, are perfect for targeted relief. They interact with cannabinoid receptors directly at the site of application, helping to soothe sore muscles, alleviate joint pain, or address localized skin issues. 

• Quick Application: Topical products are generally easy to apply and provide immediate, localized relief. They are ideal for addressing specific areas of discomfort or irritation.

• No Systemic Effects: Since topical CBD doesn’t penetrate deeply into the bloodstream, it’s often preferred by those who want to avoid systemic effects and focus solely on localized treatment.

Are CBD Bath Bombs Transdermal or Topical?

Alright, let’s get to the heart of it. CBD bath bombs are topical. They combine the soothing properties of a regular bath bomb—aromas, essential oils, fizzing action—with the therapeutic benefits of CBD. When you sink into a CBD-infused bath, the CBD works its magic on your skin's surface, soothing, relaxing, and delivering its skincare benefits. 

Since a CBD bath bomb is topical, it doesn’t penetrate deep enough. So, while it won't get to your bloodstream to help with systemic issues like anxiety, you will enjoy targeted, localized relief wherever the water touches—which, let’s face it, is practically your entire body submerged. 

But isn’t CBD hydrophobic? Does it mean it won’t work in water?

Here’s where the science gets a bit clever. CBD is both hydrophobic and lipophilic, which means it’s not exactly BFFs with water. When dropped in water, such as in your bath, CBD has difficulty mixing well because it is hydrophobic. So, how does a CBD bath bomb work in your bath to deliver localized relief?

Bath bombs often include ingredients like emulsifiers that break the CBD oil into smaller particles, allowing it to blend more evenly with the water. This ensures that the CBD can come into direct contact with your skin, rather than just floating on the surface, allowing it to deliver its soothing effects more effectively.

Benefits of CBD Bath Bombs

CBD bath bombs are topical products designed to deliver targeted benefits while you’re immersed in a bath. As the bath bomb fizzes and dissolves, it releases CBD and other beneficial ingredients into the water, offering a multi-sensory experience that targets both physical relief and mental relaxation, making them a popular choice for those looking to unwind and pamper themselves.

1. Localized Relief

The CBD in bath bombs targets specific areas of your body that are submerged in the water, offering relief for sore muscles, joint pain, or skin irritation. The warmth of the bath helps to enhance the absorption of CBD into your skin.

2. Relaxation and Stress Relief

A CBD bath bomb can elevate your bath experience by promoting relaxation. The CBD, combined with calming scents and essential oils, helps to ease your mind and reduce stress, transforming your bath into a tranquil retreat.

3. Skincare Benefits

CBD is like a skin superfood! It boasts powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it also tackles acne and signs of aging. As you soak in your bath, CBD delivers these benefits directly to your skin. Many CBD bath bombs also feature additional nourishing ingredients, such as moisturizers, that enhance skin health. While you relax in the bath, these components work synergistically to hydrate and soothe your skin, leaving it feeling incredibly soft and refreshed.

4. Enhanced Bath Experience

Beyond the CBD, bath bombs often contain other beneficial additives like Epsom salts or essential oils that can help with relaxation and muscle recovery. The fizzing action and pleasant fragrances also create a luxurious, spa-like experience.

What We Recommend: Tub Therapy Soakshow CBD Bath Bombs

 

Looking for the finest fizz and the ultimate CBD soak? Tub Therapy’s Soakshow CBD Bath Bombs are where it’s at. With 100mg of full spectrum CBD, these bath bombs are designed for the perfect dose of relaxation and relief. Non-staining, peppermint-scented and infused with all-natural, skin-loving ingredients like cocoa butter, they’re the ultimate way to level up your bath game.

Whether you’re looking for a little pampering or some targeted relief, these bombs have got you covered. So fill up that tub, drop one in, and let the soak session begin!

Our verdict?

So, are CBD bath bombs transdermal or topical? The verdict is in: they're topical. But don't fret—if you were hoping that your bath bomb would send CBD coursing through your bloodstream for a euphoric high or to tackle anxiety, you're in for a different kind of treat. 

While CBD won't deliver a systemic buzz, it will enhance your bath time with targeted relief, soothing your skin and helping to loosen tight knots. Plus, the warm, soothing bath already works wonders for mental stress and muscle tension, helping to ease anxiety and promote relaxation. So, you don’t really need a transdermal application to get your Zen on—your bath bomb is already doing its job, delivering a different kind of high!