CBD vs Hemp Cream: Which One Is Right for You?

by Ron Lev November 04, 2025

Are you looking for a powerful topical to soothe sore joints and muscles, or are you searching for a deeply hydrating skin moisturizer? Your answer to that question will immediately solve the cbd vs hemp cream puzzle. While both products have a place in a wellness routine, they are not interchangeable. One is a specialized tool for managing discomfort and inflammation right at the source, while the other is a general-purpose skin conditioner. Using hemp cream for arthritis pain will be ineffective, just as using a potent CBD cream for simple dry skin might be overkill. Let’s make sure you’re getting the right product for the right job.

Key Takeaways

· Pinpoint Your Goal for the Right Product: Choose CBD cream when you need targeted relief for pain and inflammation. Reach for hemp cream when your main goal is moisturizing and nourishing your skin.

· Check the Label for Key Ingredients: For genuine relief, the ingredient list must include "cannabidiol" or "hemp extract." If it only says "hemp seed oil," the product is a moisturizer and does not contain CBD.

· Look for Third-Party Lab Testing: Reputable brands verify their products with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to prove the CBD content is accurate and the product is safe. This is your best guarantee of effectiveness.

CBD Cream vs. Hemp Cream: What's the Real Difference?

If you’ve ever shopped for cannabis-based topicals, you’ve likely seen products labeled "CBD cream" and "hemp cream." It’s easy to assume they’re the same thing, but they offer very different benefits. Understanding this distinction is the key to finding the right product for your needs, whether you’re looking for serious pain relief or simply a great moisturizer. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can choose with confidence.

What Makes CBD Cream Unique

The main purpose of CBD cream is to provide targeted relief. It’s formulated with cannabidiol (CBD), a compound known for its potential therapeutic properties. When you’re dealing with sore muscles, joint pain, or inflammation, CBD cream is designed to help. It works by interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system to calm discomfort right at the source. Think of it as the heavy-hitter for pain management. Because it’s made to be more potent, it’s far more effective than hemp cream for alleviating aches and pains, making it a go-to for those seeking comfort and recovery.

What Exactly Is Hemp Cream?

Hemp cream, on the other hand, is all about skincare. Its primary ingredient is hemp seed oil, which is packed with nourishing fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. This makes it an excellent moisturizer that can help hydrate dry skin and support a healthy skin barrier. While it’s a fantastic addition to a daily skincare routine, it doesn’t contain the CBD necessary for targeted pain relief. So, if your goal is simply to nourish and moisturize your skin, hemp cream is a great choice. But if you’re looking for something to soothe your aching joints, it won’t provide the relief you need.

Key Ingredients to Look For

The difference between these two creams comes down to which part of the hemp plant is used. CBD is extracted from the plant's flowers, leaves, and stalks, where cannabinoids are most concentrated. This extract is then infused into a cream or salve. In contrast, hemp cream is made from oil that has been cold-pressed from hemp seeds. These seeds are incredibly nutritious but contain virtually no CBD. When you’re looking at our line of products, you’ll see that we focus on CBD from the whole plant to ensure you get the effective, pain-relieving benefits you’re looking for.

Let's Bust a Few Common Myths

Let’s clear the air on two big misconceptions. First, using CBD cream will not make you feel "high." CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it doesn’t produce the intoxicating effects associated with THC. You can use it with confidence without worrying about it impairing your judgment. Second, as we've covered, hemp cream and CBD cream are not the same. Many brands use confusing marketing, but remember this: if a product is made from hemp seed oil, it does not contain CBD. Our mission at Reclaim Labs is to provide clarity and effective, natural solutions you can trust.

How Do These Creams Actually Work?

It’s one thing to know the difference between CBD and hemp cream, but it’s another to understand what’s happening when you smooth them onto your skin. The way these creams work comes down to their active ingredients and how they interact with your body. CBD cream is designed to work with your body’s internal systems to manage discomfort, while hemp cream focuses on nourishing and protecting your skin’s surface.

Think of it like this: CBD cream is for providing targeted relief to a specific area, like a sore knee or an aching shoulder. It goes deeper than the surface to help calm things down. Hemp cream, on the other hand, is all about skin health. It’s your go-to for hydration and giving your skin the nutrients it needs to stay soft and resilient. Understanding this core difference in function is the key to picking the product that will actually help you achieve your goals, whether that’s finding comfort or getting healthier-looking skin.

How CBD Interacts With Your Body's Systems

So, how does CBD provide that targeted relief? It all comes down to a clever network in your body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a master regulator, helping to keep things like pain, inflammation, and immune responses in balance. When you apply CBD cream, the CBD is absorbed through your skin and interacts with the cannabinoid receptors in that specific area.

This interaction helps support the ECS in its work, which can lead to reduced feelings of pain and calmer inflammation right where you need it. It’s a natural way to address discomfort without systemic side effects. This is why so many people find CBD for arthritis and other joint issues to be so effective—it works with your body’s own systems to restore balance.

The Natural, Nourishing Power of Hemp

Hemp cream works its magic in a much different way. Its star ingredient is hemp seed oil, which is cold-pressed from the seeds of the hemp plant. Unlike CBD, which is extracted from the flowers and leaves, hemp seed oil doesn’t contain cannabinoids. Instead, it’s packed with skin-loving nutrients.

Hemp seed oil is a powerhouse of healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with vitamins and antioxidants. These components are fantastic for moisturizing and nourishing the skin. When you use hemp cream, you’re essentially feeding your skin a healthy meal that helps strengthen its natural barrier, lock in moisture, and protect it from environmental stressors. It’s a fantastic choice for general skincare, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.

How Your Skin Absorbs Cream (And Why It Matters)

The way your skin absorbs these creams is directly tied to their purpose. Because CBD cream is designed for relief, it’s meant to be applied to specific areas where you’re feeling discomfort—think sore muscles, stiff joints, or inflamed skin. The topical application allows the CBD to penetrate the skin and get to work on the underlying tissues and receptors without entering the bloodstream in large amounts. This makes it a great option for localized issues.

Hemp cream, however, is used more like a traditional body lotion. You can apply it generously to keep your skin hydrated and supple. Its job is to sit on the surface and upper layers of the skin, providing moisture and protection. All of our topical products are formulated for effective absorption, ensuring you get the benefits right where you need them.

A Quick Look at Safety and Side Effects

One of the best things about both CBD and hemp creams is that they are generally very well-tolerated. Most people use them without experiencing any side effects. CBD, in particular, has a strong safety profile, and since topical applications aren’t absorbed systemically in the same way as oils or edibles, the risk of side effects is extremely low.

Of course, with any new skincare product, it’s always wise to be cautious if you have sensitive skin. Both creams can contain other ingredients like essential oils or botanical extracts. It’s a good idea to perform a small patch test on your inner arm to make sure you don’t have a reaction before applying it more widely. Our commitment to natural, high-quality ingredients is part of our founding story and a promise we stand by.

When to Choose CBD Cream

If you're dealing with more than just dry skin, CBD cream is likely the better choice for you. Think of it as the more specialized option, designed to go beyond simple hydration. Because it contains active cannabidiol, CBD cream interacts with your body’s systems to provide relief right where you need it most. It’s the go-to for addressing specific aches, pains, and inflammation, offering a targeted approach that hemp cream simply can’t match. When your goal is comfort and relief, reaching for a high-quality CBD topical is a smart move.

For Targeted Pain Relief

When you have a specific area that’s aching—like a sore knee, a stiff neck, or a tense lower back—CBD cream is your best friend. Unlike products that work throughout your whole body, a topical cream allows you to apply the CBD directly to the source of your discomfort. This localized approach is incredibly effective for managing pain and inflammation because of its potency. By massaging the cream into the skin over the affected joint or muscle, you’re delivering the active compounds exactly where they can do the most good. It’s a simple, direct way to find the pain management you’re looking for.

To Calm Inflammation

Inflammation is often the root cause of pain, especially in conditions like arthritis. CBD is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which is why CBD creams are so effective at calming down irritated areas. When you apply the cream, the CBD is absorbed through your skin and interacts with cannabinoid receptors nearby. This interaction can help soothe the inflammatory response that’s causing swelling, stiffness, and pain. For anyone dealing with chronic inflammation, using a CBD cream can be a great way to manage symptoms and support your body’s natural healing process. It’s an excellent tool for alleviating discomfort and improving mobility.

Where to Apply It for Best Results

To get the most out of your CBD cream, it’s all about placement. You’ll want to apply it directly to the areas where you feel pain or stiffness. This cream is especially effective for targeting joint and muscular pain, so think about applying it to your knees, elbows, shoulders, or any other joint that’s giving you trouble. For muscle soreness, massage it into the belly of the muscle. Be generous with the amount you use and take a minute to really work it into the skin. This helps with absorption and ensures the CBD can get to work. All of our CBD products are designed for easy, targeted application.

Conditions That May Benefit from CBD

Because CBD cream is so good at relieving pain and reducing inflammation, it’s a fantastic option for a variety of conditions. People with arthritis often find significant relief from applying it to their joints. It’s also great for athletes or anyone who experiences muscle soreness after a workout. Beyond that, it can help with general aches and pains that come from daily life, whether it’s from sitting at a desk too long or overdoing it in the garden. The founder of Reclaim Labs even used CBD to help with his own personal journey, which you can read more about in his story of beating arthritis.

When to Choose Hemp Cream

If CBD cream is the specialist for targeted pain and inflammation, think of hemp cream as the ultimate skin conditioner. While both come from the same plant family, their jobs are completely different. Hemp cream is made from hemp seed oil, which is extracted by cold-pressing the seeds. These seeds don’t contain cannabinoids like CBD, so you won’t get those deep relief effects. Instead, they are a nutritional powerhouse for your skin.

You should reach for hemp cream when your primary goal is skincare. It’s perfect for anyone looking to deeply moisturize, nourish, and protect their skin with natural ingredients. Whether you’re dealing with everyday dryness, looking to soothe minor irritation, or simply want to give your skin a healthy, radiant glow, hemp cream is an excellent choice. It’s a gentle, effective option for daily use and can be a fantastic addition to your regular skincare routine, working to improve your skin’s overall health and resilience from the outside in.

For Its Essential Fatty Acids and Nutrients

The real magic of hemp cream lies in its incredible nutritional profile. It’s loaded with essential fatty acids, including a perfectly balanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which is fantastic for skin health. These fats, along with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), help reduce inflammation at the surface level, calm irritation, and support your skin’s natural barrier. This barrier is crucial for locking in moisture and keeping out environmental pollutants. Think of it as feeding your skin a healthy, balanced meal. These nutrients work together to nourish your skin cells, leaving your skin feeling soft, supple, and well-cared-for.

To Deeply Moisturize Your Skin

If you struggle with dry, flaky, or dehydrated skin, hemp cream can be a game-changer. Its primary function is to provide intense hydration. The fatty acids in hemp seed oil are exceptional moisturizers that mimic your skin’s natural lipids. This allows the cream to absorb deeply without clogging pores, delivering moisture where it’s needed most. Using it regularly helps restore your skin’s flexibility and plumpness, preventing that tight, uncomfortable feeling that comes with dryness. It creates a protective layer on the surface to prevent moisture loss throughout the day, making it a reliable ally against harsh weather and dry indoor air.

How Hemp Supports Overall Skin Health

Beyond simple hydration, hemp cream contributes to your skin’s long-term health. The rich blend of vitamins and nutrients can help maintain your skin's elasticity and may even soften the appearance of fine lines over time. For those with sensitive or reactive skin, hemp cream can be incredibly soothing. Its natural properties may help calm conditions like atopic dermatitis by nourishing the skin and supporting its ability to repair itself. By incorporating it into your daily routine, you’re not just moisturizing; you’re actively supporting your skin’s structure and function, helping it stay balanced and healthy.

Protecting Your Skin from Daily Stressors

Your skin faces a lot every day, from sun exposure to pollution. Hemp cream acts as a gentle shield, thanks to its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. This protective action helps defend your skin against environmental stressors. For those with persistent irritation from conditions like eczema or psoriasis, the soothing fats and vitamins in hemp cream can offer welcome relief by calming redness and discomfort. It’s a great way to give your skin the support it needs to stay resilient.

How to Choose the Right Cream for You

With so many options out there, picking the right cream can feel a little overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be. The key is to get clear on what you want the cream to do for you. Are you looking for targeted relief for a nagging ache, or are you hoping to give your skin a daily dose of moisture? Let’s walk through how to find the perfect match for your needs.

Deciding Between Pain Relief and Skincare

Your first step is to define your goal. If you’re dealing with discomfort, inflammation, or sore muscles, a CBD cream is designed for that. It’s formulated to provide targeted relief right where you need it. On the other hand, if your main concern is dry, irritated skin and you’re looking for a great moisturizer with nourishing properties, hemp cream is an excellent choice. Think of it this way: CBD cream is for therapeutic benefits like pain management, while hemp cream is for general skin health and hydration.

Spotting a High-Quality Product

When you’re seeking relief, quality is everything. A high-quality CBD cream will be more effective for managing pain and inflammation simply because it contains a higher concentration of active cannabinoids. While hemp cream is wonderful for the skin, it doesn't have the same therapeutic power. For genuine relief, you need a product with a meaningful amount of CBD. Don’t be swayed by flashy packaging; focus on what’s inside the bottle. A truly effective product will have its CBD content clearly listed and will be transparent about its ingredients and testing.

How to Read the Label Like a Pro

The label is your best friend when it comes to telling products apart. If you’re looking for pain relief, scan the ingredient list for the words “cannabidiol,” “full-spectrum hemp extract,” or “CBD.” If the label only lists “hemp seed oil” or “cannabis sativa seed oil,” that’s a hemp cream. While hemp seed oil is a fantastic moisturizer, it doesn’t contain CBD. Being a savvy label-reader ensures you’re actually getting the active ingredient you need to feel better. It’s the easiest way to make sure you’re buying the right product for your goals.

A Quick Word on Price

You’ve probably noticed that CBD creams often have a higher price tag than hemp creams, and there’s a good reason for that. Extracting CBD is a much more complex and costly process, which is reflected in the final price. Be wary of products marketed as “CBD cream” with a surprisingly low price. If it seems too good to be true—for instance, under $30 for a jar—it probably has very little or no actual CBD in it. Investing in a quality product from a reputable brand means you’re paying for something that will actually work.

Tips for Applying Your Cream

Once you have your cream, using it is simple. Just take a small amount and apply it directly to the area where you’re feeling pain, stiffness, or inflammation. Gently rub it into your skin until it’s fully absorbed. There’s no need to overdo it—a little can go a long way. You can use it whenever you need it, whether that’s after a long day, following a workout, or during a flare-up of a chronic condition. For more ideas on how to incorporate CBD into your wellness routine, you can always find helpful articles on our blog.

Keep Your Product Safe and Effective

Once you’ve picked a cream, you want to make sure you get the most out of it. That means knowing how to verify its quality and how to store it properly so it stays potent from the first use to the last. Making an informed choice is easier than you think, and a few simple checks can ensure you’re getting a safe, effective product that will actually work for you.

Why Third-Party Testing Is a Must

Think of third-party testing as a product’s report card. Because the CBD industry isn't heavily regulated, independent lab testing is how reputable companies prove their products are the real deal. Always look for a Certificate of Analysis, or COA, before you buy. This document confirms the product contains the amount of CBD it claims and is free from harmful contaminants like pesticides or heavy metals. If a company doesn’t make its COAs easy to find, consider that a red flag. Transparency is key, and it shows a company stands behind its products and is committed to your health and wellness.

Understand Product Potency

Potency simply refers to the concentration of active ingredients in your cream. For CBD creams, this means the total milligrams of CBD in the container. A higher potency often means more targeted effects, which is why CBD cream is generally more effective for managing pain and inflammation. For hemp cream, potency is less about a single compound and more about the rich blend of fatty acids and vitamins. When you’re shopping, check the label for the total CBD content to make sure it aligns with your needs. A product with clear potency information helps you manage your symptoms effectively and dose correctly.

How to Store Your Cream Correctly

How you store your cream matters just as much as the ingredients inside it. To maintain the product's integrity, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and light can degrade the active compounds, like CBD and delicate carrier oils, making your cream less effective over time. A bathroom cabinet, a drawer in your nightstand, or a pantry shelf are all great options. Just avoid leaving it on a sunny windowsill or in your car’s glove compartment. Proper storage protects your investment and ensures your cream is ready to work whenever you need it. For more tips, you can often find helpful information on a company's blog.

Telltale Signs of a Quality Product

When you’re ready to buy, a few key signs can help you spot a high-quality product. First, look for clear and detailed labeling that lists all ingredients and the exact amount of CBD. Vague labels are a warning sign. Second, check if the hemp is sourced from organic farms. Hemp plants can absorb toxins from the soil, so clean sourcing is crucial. Finally, as we’ve covered, confirm the product is third-party tested. A trustworthy brand will make these results easy to access. By looking for these markers of quality, you can confidently choose from a selection of safe and effective products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the quickest way to tell if a cream has CBD for pain relief?

The fastest way to know for sure is to check the ingredient list on the label. If you're looking for relief from aches and pains, you need to see words like "cannabidiol," "full-spectrum hemp extract," or "CBD." If the label only lists "hemp seed oil" or "cannabis sativa seed oil," it's a hemp cream designed for moisturizing, not for pain relief.

Will using a CBD cream make me feel high?

Absolutely not. The compound responsible for the "high" feeling is THC, and CBD is a completely different, non-psychoactive compound. When you use a CBD topical, it works locally on the area where you apply it to help ease discomfort. It doesn't enter your bloodstream in a significant way or produce any intoxicating effects, so you can use it with confidence anytime.

Why is there such a big price difference between the two?

You'll almost always find that CBD cream costs more than hemp cream, and it comes down to the manufacturing process. Extracting CBD from the hemp plant's flowers and leaves is a complex, science-intensive process that requires specialized equipment and testing. Hemp seed oil, on the other hand, is produced by simply cold-pressing the seeds. You're paying for the potent, active ingredient that provides therapeutic relief.

If I have arthritis, which one should I use?

For a condition like arthritis, where pain and inflammation are the primary concerns, you should definitely choose a CBD cream. Its anti-inflammatory properties are designed to interact with your body's systems to provide targeted relief directly to your sore joints. While hemp cream is a lovely moisturizer, it doesn't contain the active compounds needed to address the underlying discomfort associated with arthritis.

How long does it take for CBD cream to work?

Most people start to feel the effects of a CBD cream within 15 to 45 minutes of applying it. The exact timing can depend on factors like the product's potency and your own body chemistry. For the best results, be sure to apply a generous amount and massage it thoroughly into the skin over the affected area to help with absorption.