Products
Topicals
Cannabis you apply, not consume. Localized relief without the high.
The Basics
What Are Cannabis Topicals?
Cannabis topicals are products applied directly to the skin. They include creams, balms, patches, and bath products infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Unlike other cannabis products, most topicals work locally — they interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin without entering the bloodstream.
This means most topicals will not produce psychoactive effects. You will not feel “high” from applying a cannabis cream or balm. This makes topicals an appealing option for people who want the potential benefits of cannabinoids without any intoxication, or for those who are cannabis-curious but not ready to inhale or ingest.
Non-intoxicating. Applied directly to skin.
Creams & Lotions
Cannabis-infused moisturizers that absorb into the skin for localized effects. Available in various cannabinoid ratios and often combined with complementary ingredients like menthol, arnica, or essential oils. Applied directly to the area where relief is needed.
Best Use
Targeted application to specific areas. Muscles, joints, and skin.
Balms & Salves
Thicker, wax-based formulations that sit on the skin longer, providing sustained contact with the cannabinoids. Balms tend to be more concentrated than creams and are often preferred for focused, localized application on smaller areas.
Best Use
Concentrated relief for specific joints, muscles, and pressure points.
Transdermal Patches
Adhesive patches that deliver cannabinoids through the skin into the bloodstream over an extended period. Unlike other topicals, transdermal patches can produce systemic effects, including mild psychoactive effects depending on THC content.
Best Use
Extended, steady-state cannabinoid delivery over 8-12 hours.
Bath Products
Cannabis-infused bath bombs, soaks, and oils designed for full-body relaxation. These products dissolve in warm water and allow cannabinoids to interact with the skin across a large surface area. A luxurious, immersive cannabis experience.
Best Use
Full-body relaxation and recovery. Post-workout or evening wind-down.
How It Works
Localized & Non-Intoxicating
Your skin has its own endocannabinoid system — cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) located throughout the layers of your skin. When you apply a cannabis topical, the cannabinoids bind to these local receptors without reaching the bloodstream.
This localized interaction means the effects stay where you apply the product. A cream on your knee works on your knee, not your brain. This is fundamentally different from every other consumption method.
The exception is transdermal patches, which are specifically designed to cross the skin barrier and enter systemic circulation. If a patch contains THC, it can produce psychoactive effects. Read the label carefully and ask our staff if you have questions.
No Psychoactive Effects
Most topicalsStandard creams, balms, and bath products do not produce a high. They interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin only. Safe for daytime use, work, and daily life.
Fast-Acting Locally
15-45 minutesEffects are typically felt within 15-45 minutes of application. Duration varies by product type and formulation, generally lasting 2-6 hours.
Stackable with Other Products
VersatileTopicals can be used alongside other cannabis products. Applying a balm does not interfere with an edible or vape. They serve a different purpose entirely.
Choosing a Topical
What to Consider
CBD vs THC Content
CBD topicals are widely available and non-intoxicating. THC topicals interact with a broader range of receptors. Many effective topicals use a combination of both. Ask our staff about which ratio is appropriate for your needs.
Complementary Ingredients
Quality topicals often include ingredients like menthol, arnica, camphor, lavender, or eucalyptus that work alongside cannabinoids. These additions can enhance the overall experience and effectiveness of the product.
Application Area & Type
Creams and lotions spread easily over large areas. Balms are better for targeted, concentrated application. Patches offer hands-free, extended relief. Choose the format that matches how and where you plan to use it.
What to Look For
Quality Markers in Topicals
Clean Ingredients
Quality topicals use natural, skin-safe ingredients. Avoid products with long lists of unrecognizable chemicals. We prioritize topicals that are as clean outside the cannabis as inside.
Lab-Verified Potency
The cannabinoid content listed on the label should match actual lab results. We verify certificates of analysis for every topical we carry.
Proper Packaging
Topicals should be in airtight, light-resistant containers that preserve potency. Pumps and tubes are preferable to open jars that expose the product to air and contaminants.
Find the Right Topical
570 Midland Ave, Midland Beach, Staten Island. Our staff can help you choose the right product for your specific needs.
Studio 57 Cannabis Dispensary is licensed by the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). All products are tested in accordance with NYS regulations. Cannabis is for adult use only. You must be 21 years or older to enter the dispensary or purchase products. Keep cannabis products out of reach of children and pets. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of cannabis. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before using cannabis products.