Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a regular part of many people’s wellness routines in recent years. Studies (1) suggest that this active compound from the hemp plant may help support overall wellbeing and ease common issues such as pain, inflammation and sleep problems. Alongside CBD oils and capsules, CBD patches are becoming an increasingly popular way to enjoy the benefits of cannabidiol.
But how do these patches actually work, and what does science say about them?
What is a CBD Patch?
A CBD patch is a transdermal patch, meaning it delivers CBD through the skin and into the bloodstream (2). Much like nicotine or analgesic patches, it’s placed directly on the skin, where it gradually releases CBD over several hours or even days.
This approach is especially useful for people who don’t enjoy the taste of CBD oil or tincture or prefer not to take CBD orally.
How do CBD patches work?
Once applied, the patch slowly and evenly releases CBD. The compound travels through the upper layers of the skin and reaches the blood vessels in the dermis. This allows CBD to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors involved in regulating pain perception, inflammation, mood, and sleep. You can think of the ECS as the body’s internal “messaging service”.
Studies (3) suggest that CBD may modulate pain signals and reduce inflammation without producing any psychoactive effects.
How are CBD patches made?
Making CBD patches involves a few key steps:
-
Creating the CBD film: CBD is dissolved in a solvent, such as a hydroalcoholic gel, and processed into a thin film. Once dried, a solid layer of CBD remains.
- Adding the adhesive backing: The film is applied to a sticky surface, often made of plastic or fabric, that ensures the patch stays comfortably in place.
- Applying the protective layer: Finally, a removable protective foil is added, which you peel off just before applying the patch.
This careful process allows for precise dosing and a controlled, consistent release of CBD.
How does the skin absorb CBD?
The skin naturally protects the body and only lets certain substances through. However, because CBD is lipophilic (fat-soluble), it can move through tiny lipid channels in the outer layer of the skin.
To make this easier, many CBD patches use what’s known as permeation enhancers – ingredients that temporarily make the skin more permeable (4). Newer technologies, like nanocarrier systems, also help improve absorption.
Once CBD crosses the skin barrier, it enters the bloodstream directly, bypassing the liver. This avoids what’s known as the first-pass effect, where some of the compound is lost during digestion (5).
The result? Better absorption – also called higher bioavailability – and effects that tend to last longer.
Bioavailability and effectiveness
When CBD oil is taken by mouth, part of it is broken down by the liver before it can take effect. That means only a small percentage, usually around 6–20%, actually reaches your system. CBD patches perform much better. Studies (6) show that patches using nanocarriers may increase absorption by three to nine times.
Depending on the product, the effects can last anywhere from 48 to 70 hours, with the highest release usually happening around the four-hour mark (7).
Research suggests that CBD patches may help to:
- reduce inflammation
- ease pain signals
- support recovery after physical activity
Five reasons to use a CBD patch for pain
- Steady dosage: Patches release CBD gradually, no peaks and dips like you get with drops or capsules.
- Easy to use: Apply it once and let it do its work for hours, or even days.
- Discreet and practical: No taste, no smell, and no need to top up.
- Targeted relief: Apply the patch directly where it’s needed most.
-
Natural alternative: Many people value CBD patches as a gentle option compared with traditional painkillers or prescription treatments.
Research and current studies
Research into CBD patches is still relatively new, but results so far look promising. Recent studies (8) suggest that transdermal CBD products may:
- have anti-inflammatory effects
- help reduce chronic pain
- and help with conditions such as arthritis or muscle soreness
CBD patches: a natural option for pain relief
CBD patches offer a simple, discreet and effective way to include CBD in your day-to-day routine, particularly for those looking for a natural, non-prescription approach to easing pain.
Because they work through the skin, CBD patches deliver CBD directly into the bloodstream without passing through the digestive system. This means a steady, long-lasting effect that may benefit both specific areas and overall wellbeing.
As research continues, CBD patches are showing exciting potential for supporting pain management and wellness, provided you choose products from a trusted source that values quality, purity and accurate dosing.
Frequently asked questions
What do CBD patches do?
CBD patches may help support overall wellbeing by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network that plays a key role in regulating:
- pain perception
- inflammatory responses
- sleep and stress
- and general wellbeing
Studies show that CBD may have anti-inflammatory properties and influence how the body processes pain, without any psychoactive effects (9).
What types of pain can CBD help with?
CBD patches are often used for discomfort linked to inflammation or muscle tension, including:
- back pain
- joint discomfort (for example, arthritis)
- muscle soreness after exercise
- chronic or nerve-related pain (10)
Because they work both locally and throughout the body, CBD patches may help ease discomfort right where it’s needed, without putting extra strain on the stomach or liver.
How quickly do CBD patches work?
The effects of a CBD patch can vary depending on a few factors:
- Where it’s applied: thinner skin areas, such as the wrist or inner arm, absorb faster.
- Dosage and quality: patches with a consistent CBD release tend to provide steadier results.
- Individual factors: your metabolism and skin type affect how quickly you notice an effect.
Most people report feeling an effect within one to four hours, with the benefits lasting for an extended period of time.
Can I buy CBD patches without a prescription?
Yes, CBD patches are generally available without a prescription as long as they do not contain THC and meet legal standards. The CBD is derived from industrial hemp and remains legal provided the THC content is below 0.2%.
They’re typically sold as wellness or cosmetic products rather than medicines, meaning they’re not approved for medical use, but they can still help support overall wellbeing. Just make sure to always choose certified manufacturers and products that meet quality standards.
References
- Millar, S. A., Stone, N. L., Yates, A. S., & O'Sullivan, S. E. (2018). A systematic review on the pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol in humans. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 9, 1365. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01365
- Lodzki, M., Alexander, A., Pacheco, S., et al. (2003). Cannabidiol – transdermal delivery and anti-inflammatory effect in a murine model. Journal of Controlled Release, 93(3), 377–387. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-3659(03)00221-5
- Zou, S., & Kumar, U. (2018). Cannabinoid receptors and the endocannabinoid system: Signaling and function in the central nervous system. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 19(3), 833. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms19030833
- Millar, S. A., Stone, N. L., Yates, A. S., & O'Sullivan, S. E. (2018). A systematic review on the pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol in humans. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 9, 1365. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01365
- Chu, P. C., Liao, M. H., Liu, M. G., Li, C. Z., & Lai, P. S. (2024). Key transdermal patch using cannabidiol-loaded nanocarriers with better pharmacokinetics in vivo. International Journal of Nanomedicine, 19, 4321–4337. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJN.S455032
- Hammell, D. C., Zhang, L. P., Ma, F., Abshire, S. M., McIlwrath, S. L., Stinchcomb, A. L., & Westlund, K. N. (2016). Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis. European Journal of Pain, 20(6), 936–948. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.818
- Yu, L., Madsen, F. B., Eriksen, S. H., Andersen, A. J. C., & Skov, A. L. (2022). A reliable quantitative method for determining CBD content and release from transdermal patches in Franz cells. Phytochemical Analysis, 33(8), 1257–1265. https://doi.org/10.1002/pca.3188
- Bruni, N., Della Pepa, C., Oliaro-Bosso, S., Pessione, E., Gastaldi, D., & Dosio, F. (2018). Cannabinoid delivery systems for pain and inflammation treatment. Molecules, 23(10), 2478. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23102478
- Finn, D. P. (2021). Cannabinoids, the endocannabinoid system and pain. PAIN Reports, 6(6), e8819673. https://doi.org/10.1097/PR9.0000000000000815
- Xiong, W., Cui, T., Cheng, K., Yang, F., Chen, S.-R., Willenbring, D., Guan, Y., Pan, H.-L., Ren, K., Xu, Y., & Zhang, L. (2012). Cannabinoids suppress inflammatory and neuropathic pain by targeting α3 glycine receptors. The Journal of Experimental Medicine, 209(6), 1121–1134. https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20120242
