5 Best CBD Balms for 2024

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you
buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
Here’s our process
Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
Read more about our vetting process.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is becoming an increasingly popular ingredient in a variety of products due to its numerous potential health benefits. CBD may also benefit the skin. Here are some of the best CBD balms.
Share on Pinterest
A quick look at the best CBD balms
Best soothing : Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum Balm Stick | Skip to review
Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum Balm Stick
Skip to review
Best for painful muscles: GoGreen Hemp CBD Balm Salve | Skip to review
GoGreen Hemp CBD Balm Salve
Skip to review
Best affordable option: PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula | Skip to review
PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula
Skip to review
Best for sensitive skin: NuLeaf Naturals CBD Balm | Skip to review
NuLeaf Naturals CBD Balm
Skip to review
Best for pain relief: Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm | Skip to review
Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm
Skip to review
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.
state laws
CBD is one of many cannabinoids, or chemicals, present in the Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) plant that may help treat some health conditions.
many cannabinoids
may help
CBD does not have any psychoactive properties, unlike delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is another cannabinoid in the C. sativa plant. THC is the chemical responsible for the “high” that many people associate with cannabis.
does not have
This article discusses CBD balms, their benefits, and how to use them. It also lists five CBD balms to consider.
Learn about the differences between THC and CBD.
differences between THC and CBD.
What is a CBD balm?
A CBD balm is a balm containing CBD oil.
CBD oil
To create CBD oil, producers extract CBD from the C. sativa plant and then mix it with a carrier oil. Manufacturers can extract CBD from the plant using various methods, such as the supercritical carbon dioxide method. They can then add the CBD oil to a balm.
supercritical carbon dioxide method
A balm is a topical skin care product usually containing butter, waxes, oils, and active ingredients. Balms are similar to creams, but they do not contain water. Popular ingredients in balms include shea butter and beeswax.
Learn more about carrier oils here.
carrier oils here.
The best CBD balms
There are many CBD balms available on the market. Below, we list five products for consideration.
Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum Balm Stick

CBD type: full-spectrum
CBD potency: 800 mg per stick
SHOP NOW AT CBD.CO
*Price may vary.

Lazarus Naturals Relax + Unwind Full Spectrum CBD Balm Stick combines lavender and chamomile that the company claims promote a sense of calm. Other ingredients include mango seed butter, jojoba seed oil, beeswax, and full-spectrum CBD hemp extract.
lavender
mango
jojoba seed oil
hemp

Some reviews mention the product’s fragrance is soothing and that it also eased some people’s inflamed joints and workout soreness.

However, other reviews state that the packaging for this product is too small, making it difficult to access the required amount and that the company’s customer service team is unhelpful.

soothing fragrance
lab-tested
essential oils may aid healing
small packaging
customer service complaints
soothing fragrance
lab-tested
essential oils may aid healing
small packaging
customer service complaints
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: calculated at checkout
Price: $12.00
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: calculated at checkout
Price: $12.00
GoGreen Hemp CBD Balm Salve

CBD type: broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency: 500 mg per 1-oz container, 1,000 mg per 1-oz container, 2,000 mg per 1-oz container
SHOP NOW AT GOGREEN HEMP
*Price may vary.

Go Green Hemp CBD Balm Salve is available in varying strengths with additional ingredients, including beeswax and medium-chain triglyceride oils.

The balm comes with a scent of eucalyptus and lavender that may provide an aromatic and soothing experience with essential oils. However, some individuals may find that this product irritates essential oil allergies.

The manufacturer suggests applying the balm to aching areas and painful muscles.

The company backs its products with third-party lab results that people can download and access for free.

Additionally, this product is THC-free, non-GMO, and manufactured in the United States.

contains essential oils which may aid healing
uses non-GMO ingredients
lab-tested
essential oils could irritate some
less affordable than similar products
contains essential oils which may aid healing
uses non-GMO ingredients
lab-tested
essential oils could irritate some
less affordable than similar products
COA: available online
available online
Available scents: Eucalyptus & Lavender, Calming Purple (Terpene Blend)
Price per mg: $0.05
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: refunds for unopened products
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $49.99
Price: $29.99
COA: available online
available online
Available scents: Eucalyptus & Lavender, Calming Purple (Terpene Blend)
Price per mg: $0.05
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: refunds for unopened products
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $49.99
Price: $29.99
PlusCBD Full Spectrum CBD Balm, Extra Strength Formula

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 100 mg per 1.3-oz container
Use code “healthline40” for 40% off.
SHOP NOW AT PLUSCBD
*Price may vary.

Plus CBD combines CBD with tocopherol — a vitamin E derivative, oils, and herbal ingredients.

It contains sweet almond oil, beeswax, industry-standard glycerin, and green tea leaf extract.

This balm also contains willow bark extract. According to the manufacturer, this may provide an anti-inflammatory effect.

However, this product contains peppermint oil, which some individuals may find irritating or sensitizing.

The brand formulates this balm without gluten, GMOs, sulfates, or pesticides. Third-party labs test each batch for CBD purity, salmonella, heavy metals, and other contaminants. Individuals can easily access the test certificates on the company website.

Use code “MNT20” for 20% off.

“Smells wonderful, minty, reminds me of an old-fashioned candy shop. Feels a little warm and tingly going onto the skin. The texture is like a thick Vaseline, it felt a little weird rubbing it in. The worst part though was that it sits on the skin and leaves a shiny, greasy residue. It made my hands very oily and didn’t rub in well at all, which made typing a chore when I returned to my keyboard.”
“This might be good for other parts of the body but I definitely wouldn’t recommend it for your hands [as you will be] leaving oil on everything you touch.”
“It soothed my hands OK, but [if someone has] extremely dry hands they’re probably going to need something a little more heavy duty.”
— Emily Schalk, Associate Copy Editor
“Smells wonderful, minty, reminds me of an old-fashioned candy shop. Feels a little warm and tingly going onto the skin. The texture is like a thick Vaseline, it felt a little weird rubbing it in. The worst part though was that it sits on the skin and leaves a shiny, greasy residue. It made my hands very oily and didn’t rub in well at all, which made typing a chore when I returned to my keyboard.”
“This might be good for other parts of the body but I definitely wouldn’t recommend it for your hands [as you will be] leaving oil on everything you touch.”
“It soothed my hands OK, but [if someone has] extremely dry hands they’re probably going to need something a little more heavy duty.”
— Emily Schalk, Associate Copy Editor
contains willow bark and other herbal ingredients that may support skin healing
reasonable price
uses clean ingredients
contains peppermint oil, which could irritate some
contains THC, which some people may prefer to avoid
contains willow bark and other herbal ingredients that may support skin healing
reasonable price
uses clean ingredients
contains peppermint oil, which could irritate some
contains THC, which some people may prefer to avoid
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $45
Price: $35.99
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $45
Price: $35.99
NuLeaf Naturals CBD Balm

CBD type: full-spectrum
CBD potency: 300 mg per 0.5-oz. jar, 600 mg per 1.0-oz. jar, 900 mg per 1.5-oz. jar
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
SHOP NOW AT NULEAF NATURALS
*Price may vary.

This heavy moisturizer’s base ingredient is organic shea butter, which may suit those with skin sensitivities.

Most reviews state this balm helped relieve pain in arthritic joints and sprained wrists.

The brand uses third-party labs that confirm its products are free from pesticides, herbicides, mold, fungi, heavy metals, and mycotoxins. Individuals can easily access and read the lab reports.

As this balm only contains shea butter, some people may find it too thick. Some reviews report warming the balm prior to use as this can make it smoother to apply.

NuLeaf Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Balm is available for purchase online.

“I enjoyed using this balm as a post-run treatment, but didn’t love the texture of it. I used it on my calves after running to relieve soreness.”
“The texture of this balm is super strange. It’s grainy but not coarse — it pills (or crumbs?) a bit and takes a lot of effort to massage into the skin without making a mess. I definitely would recommend using in warmer temperatures or working it with your fingers to help the balm melt more, otherwise you get little balls of balm everywhere!
“I am not sure the CBD really did anything for me personally, but it didn’t do any harm and the massage felt nice (once the little crumbs melted!).”
— Jamey Powell, Senior Market Editor
“I enjoyed using this balm as a post-run treatment, but didn’t love the texture of it. I used it on my calves after running to relieve soreness.”
“The texture of this balm is super strange. It’s grainy but not coarse — it pills (or crumbs?) a bit and takes a lot of effort to massage into the skin without making a mess. I definitely would recommend using in warmer temperatures or working it with your fingers to help the balm melt more, otherwise you get little balls of balm everywhere!
“I am not sure the CBD really did anything for me personally, but it didn’t do any harm and the massage felt nice (once the little crumbs melted!).”
— Jamey Powell, Senior Market Editor
made with shea butter, which is good for sensitive skin
made with organic hemp
lab-tested
some find balm is too thick to apply easily
contains THC, which some people may prefer to avoid
made with shea butter, which is good for sensitive skin
made with organic hemp
lab-tested
some find balm is too thick to apply easily
contains THC, which some people may prefer to avoid
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Price per mg: $0.06-$0.08
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Price: $24.00
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Price per mg: $0.06-$0.08
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Price: $24.00
Aspen Green Full Spectrum CBD Relief Body Balm

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 1,000 mg per 2-oz jar
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
SHOP NOW AT ASPEN GREEN
*Price may vary.

A person can use this full-spectrum CBD balm on their entire body. The website claims that it may assist with alleviating discomfort and agitation.

The product is USDA-certified organic and made with 100% food-grade ingredients. The oil-based balm is easy to apply and spread on the skin.

Each 2-oz jar also contains 33 mg of THC. The website recommends not applying to sensitive areas on the skin, and storing the product at room temperature.

reviewers state that it works to relieve pain
people claim to have a positive experience with customer service
organic ingredients
one reviewer reported a slightly pungent scent
unsuitable for those who prefer a product without THC
less affordable than other options
reviewers state that it works to relieve pain
people claim to have a positive experience with customer service
organic ingredients
one reviewer reported a slightly pungent scent
unsuitable for those who prefer a product without THC
less affordable than other options
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Price: $89.99
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Condition tags: pain management, sleep improvement, stress reduction
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Price: $89.99
Comparison of the best CBD balms
The following table provides a comparison of the above products.
Lazarus Naturals
Go Green Hemp
Plus CBD
NuLeaf Naturals
Aspen Green
How to choose a CBD balm
Currently, the FDA does not regulate CBD products, and a a 2022 study showed that the product labels on almost half of the 80 products reviewed were not labelled accurately..
FDA
almost half of the 80 products
Therefore, a person should look for CBD balms that:
contain no more than 0.3% THC, per the Agriculture Improvement Act
0.3% THC
Agriculture Improvement Act
have proof of third-party testing by an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory
ISO/IEC 17025
have a current and valid certificate of analysis
pass tests for pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and microbes
pass product potency evaluations and safety testing
are not subject to an FDA warning letter
FDA warning letter
Additionally, people may also wish to consider the product’s scent, application method, and price.
Researching manufacturer and retailer reputations, including customer reviews, may also help guide a person’s decision.
Read our complete buyer’s guide to CBD here.
complete buyer’s guide to CBD here.
How to use CBD balm
People should follow all packaging instructions when using CBD products and not exceed the recommended dose.
recommended dose
When applying a CBD balm to the skin, people typically place a small amount of balm on their hands and rub them together. This will help warm and soften the product, making it easier to apply. A person can then gently massage the balm into the required area.
Avoid applying balm to areas with broken skin.
Individuals new to CBD products might consider starting with the lowest possible dosage. Once they understand how their body reacts to CBD, they can slowly increase the dose.
Always perform a patch test before using the product to ensure it will not irritate the skin.
Learn more about allergy testing here.
ut allergy testing here.
Pros and cons of CBD balms
Below are some advantages and disadvantages for a person to consider.
Products have the potential to work as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.
CBD balms could benefit common skin conditions.
There is a low risk of side effects with short-term use.
There is a wide range of products available.
The FDA does not regulate CBD products.
There is limited scientific research into safety and benefits.
Long-term use may cause side effects.
Some ingredients may interact with certain medications.
Some of the ingredients may irritate the skin.
How we chose
Medical News Today carefully vets CBD products to ensure they do not pose health risks to individuals. These include:
Ingredients: Products must contain safe and high quality ingredients, and their labels must state all ingredients clearly. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
Dosage: Products must clearly state the CBD dosage.
Serving size: Manufacturers must suggest a safe serving size.
Third-party labs: Products must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
ISO 17025-compliant
Available certificate of analysis: The company must demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) following receipt of its third-party lab results.
Learn more about MNT’s product selection and vetting process here.
selection and vetting process here
Uses of CBD balm
Scientific research exploring the effects and health benefits of topical CBD is still at a relatively early stage. However, there is increasing evidence that CBD may have many potential medicinal properties.
Scientific research
Evidence notes that the human body contains a complex network of neurotransmitters and cannabinoid receptors known as the endocannabinoid receptor system (ECS). The signaling of the ECS receptors may help reduce depressive symptoms in people with schizophrenia.
neurotransmitters
endocannabinoid receptor system (ECS)
schizophrenia
Research also indicates that the ECS may contain multiple promising therapeutic targets and that the skin has many cannabinoid receptors. Therefore, topical CBD products may be a useful way for people to benefit from the potential of CBD.
multiple promising therapeutic targets
has
While research is still in its early stages, some evidence suggests that topical CBD may have some benefit in treating muscle soreness. A 2018 review notes the potential of CBD for pain and inflammation.
evidence
2018 review
pain
inflammation
A 2019 research article and a 2020 randomized controlled trial also highlight the pain relief properties of topical CBD, while a a 2021 review showed that CBD, CBG, and CBD with THC, all showed anti-inflammatory effects.
2019
2020
2021 review
Other research also notes that topical CBD may help treat certain skin disorders. A 2019 study suggests that CBD ointment is a safe and effective treatment for inflammatory skin conditions and may help improve skin hydration and elasticity.
2019 study
The American Academy of Dermatology also suggests that topical CBD may help treat acne, psoriasis, and eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
American Academy of Dermatology
acne
psoriasis
eczema
Learn more about CBD for skin here.
CBD for skin here.
Side effects
CBD may interact with certain medications. People who take prescription medications should speak with their doctor before using any CBD products.
may interact
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that cannabidiol does not appear to have abuse potential or cause harm.
World Health Organization (WHO)
Most of the known CBD side effects relate to consumable products. According to the FDA, side effects can include diarrhea, mood changes, drowsiness, and sometimes liver damage.
FDA
diarrhea
mood changes
Researchers know less about topically applied CBD and which doses may result in side effects. However, when someone applies a balm topically, there is a much lower risk of CBD entering the bloodstream.
Research suggests that short-term CBD use is unlikely to result in side effects, but long-term use may have mild adverse effects.
Research
A 2018 paper raises questions about the possible side effects of using CBD long term, although researchers should continue to investigate this.
2018 paper
Learn more about CBD dosage here.
CBD dosage here
Frequently asked questions about CBD balms
The following are common questions about CBD balms.

According to current research, CBD balm may help reduce inflammation, pain, and discomfort that people experience due to certain skin conditions.

However, knowledge about the medicinal effects of CBD is still developing.

The FDA reports that individuals should avoid products that make broad health claims, including claims that CBD can prevent, treat, or cure serious illnesses such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and mental health conditions.
FDA
cancer
Alzheimer’s disease
diabetes
mental health conditions

According to current research, CBD balm may help reduce inflammation, pain, and discomfort that people experience due to certain skin conditions.

However, knowledge about the medicinal effects of CBD is still developing.

The FDA reports that individuals should avoid products that make broad health claims, including claims that CBD can prevent, treat, or cure serious illnesses such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and mental health conditions.
FDA
cancer
Alzheimer’s disease
diabetes
mental health conditions

Some research suggests that CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This stops the endocannabinoids from breaking down and prolongs their effect on the body.

Research shows there are endocannabinoid receptors throughout the skin, which may help improve the effectiveness of CBD skin balms, oils, and creams.

CBD balms may reduce pain by reducing inflammation, as suggested by a study which found CBD, CBG, and CBD + THC can have an anti-inflammatory effect.
study which found CBD, CBG, and CBD + THC

A more recent 2019 study found that CBD worked as a muscle relaxer, which improved symptoms in people with jaw pain.
2019 study
muscle relaxer
jaw pain

Some research suggests that CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This stops the endocannabinoids from breaking down and prolongs their effect on the body.

Research shows there are endocannabinoid receptors throughout the skin, which may help improve the effectiveness of CBD skin balms, oils, and creams.

CBD balms may reduce pain by reducing inflammation, as suggested by a study which found CBD, CBG, and CBD + THC can have an anti-inflammatory effect.
study which found CBD, CBG, and CBD + THC

A more recent 2019 study found that CBD worked as a muscle relaxer, which improved symptoms in people with jaw pain.
2019 study
muscle relaxer
jaw pain

Yes, the skin can absorb CBD.

A 2020 study into how well the skin absorbed CBD concluded that paraffin oil ointments and hydrophilic gels provided the best absorption and a mixture of water and propylene glycol.
2020 study

Yes, the skin can absorb CBD.

A 2020 study into how well the skin absorbed CBD concluded that paraffin oil ointments and hydrophilic gels provided the best absorption and a mixture of water and propylene glycol.
2020 study

CBD may interact with some medications. A person should talk with a doctor before using CBD if they are currently taking medications to check that it is safe for them.

Reported side effects mainly involve oral CBD products and rarely relate to topical balms and creams.

Research to answer questions about long-term CBD use’s effects and whether topical CBD can cause harmful side effects should continue.

Scientists do not know if CBD is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding people, and the FDA strongly advises against its use in these cases.
FDA

CBD may interact with some medications. A person should talk with a doctor before using CBD if they are currently taking medications to check that it is safe for them.

Reported side effects mainly involve oral CBD products and rarely relate to topical balms and creams.

Research to answer questions about long-term CBD use’s effects and whether topical CBD can cause harmful side effects should continue.

Scientists do not know if CBD is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding people, and the FDA strongly advises against its use in these cases.
FDA

The research regarding the benefits of CBD balms on nerve pain is limited.

A 2018 review found a small benefit in using CBD to treat chronic, non-cancer-related pain. However, it also noted that side effects were more common in those taking CBD than placebos. Ultimately, the study did not find CBD to be a likely highly effective treatment for chronic, non-cancer-related pain.
2018 review

A 2020 study into topical CBD oil for peripheral neuropathy concluded that CBD oil could significantly improve pain for people with this condition.
2020 study
peripheral neuropathy

The research regarding the benefits of CBD balms on nerve pain is limited.

A 2018 review found a small benefit in using CBD to treat chronic, non-cancer-related pain. However, it also noted that side effects were more common in those taking CBD than placebos. Ultimately, the study did not find CBD to be a likely highly effective treatment for chronic, non-cancer-related pain.
2018 review

A 2020 study into topical CBD oil for peripheral neuropathy concluded that CBD oil could significantly improve pain for people with this condition.
2020 study
peripheral neuropathy
Common uses for CBD body balm are:
arthritis pain relief
easing chronic pain
soothing tired and aching muscles and joints
supporting a sleep quality
Common uses for CBD body balm are:
arthritis pain relief
easing chronic pain
soothing tired and aching muscles and joints
supporting a sleep quality
The effects of CBD balm are different for every person. Some people report significant pain relief and others do not report much, if any.
CBD takes effect more slowly when it is applied to the skin. It can take 15 to 45 minutes for a person using CBD balm to feel relief.
15 to 45 minutes
The effects of CBD balm are different for every person. Some people report significant pain relief and others do not report much, if any.
CBD takes effect more slowly when it is applied to the skin. It can take 15 to 45 minutes for a person using CBD balm to feel relief.
15 to 45 minutes
Summary
CBD balms may help moisturize skin and relieve soreness, inflammation, and discomfort. If people wish to use CBD products, there are a variety of other topical products available and other forms of CBD that they can ingest.
Before purchasing a CBD product, people should ensure it is from a reputable company and passes safety tests. It is also advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using any CBD products.
Visit our dedicated hub for more research-backed information and in-depth resources on CBD.
CBD