Top 8 CBD Creams That Actually Deliver Potent Relief

Are you looking for a vegan-friendly formula to help combat your chronic pain? Or, perhaps, a water-based topical that provides fast-acting relief to sore muscles? Whatever style of CBD cream you're looking for, our list has it! 

Here, we break down potent, impactful, and nourishing creams to help you transition from mainstream to alternative treatments. 

Number one on our list is Royal CBD Cream (Cool Relief Balm) with cooling menthol, a good potency, and added ingredients to aid comfort. 

Keep reading to discover the best CBD creams on the market today.

Best CBD Creams to Buy (2025 Roundup)

Choosing the best CBD cream to buy in 2025 is no mean feat. Everyone has specific requirements to look for before purchasing, including relief, texture, scent, absorption rate, and ingredients. 

With that in mind, here's a breakdown of the best CBD creams currently on the market:

1. Royal CBD Cream (Cool Relief Balm) — Effective Pain Relief

2. Gold Bee CBD Soothing Freeze Roll-on Gel — Best On-the-Go Relief

3. CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cream, Cooling Formula 

4. Level Select Sports CBD Cream, Level 2 Mint

5. R&R Full Spectrum CBD Cream

6. PlusCBD Pain Relief Penetrating Cream

7. Soul CBD Rapid Relief Cream

8. Carmen’s Medicinals Better in a Balm

Now, let's dive into the in-depth reviews of each company and product and outline which product is the best CBD cream for you.

1. Royal CBD Cream Cool Relief Balm (Effective Pain Relief)

Pros & Cons:

• Highly potent 500 mg of CBD provides strong pain relief.

• The non-greasy formula enables quick absorption.

• Non-GMO and cruelty-free ingredients appeal to health-conscious users.

• Organic ingredients, such as ginger and lavender, target sore muscles.

• First-time buyers can save 15% using the discount code below.

Royal CBD is at the top of this list for good reason: quality products over everything else. The company has been in operation since 2018 and has gained a cult following in the cannabinoid industry. It's clear to see why when you look at the focus on organic ingredients, meticulous extraction, and potent broad- and full-spectrum formulas that bring out the very best therapeutic potential of hemp. 

The Royal CBD Cream (Cool Relief Balm) is a highly concentrated CBD-infused cream. Each 2-oz jar is packed with 500 mg of broad-spectrum CBD and contains zero THC. 

This cream is particularly beneficial for people suffering from sunburn, sore muscles, joint pain, and irritated skin. The menthol cools the targeted area while the CBD's fat-soluble properties are rapidly absorbed. 

The high CBD potency provides long-lasting relief. Alongside this, botanicals such as clove, lavender, calendula, and ginger work to combat sore muscles, promote skin regeneration, and fight inflammation. This is a well-rounded cream to apply after physical activity or simply to promote muscle relaxation and reduce skin irritation. 

For portable relief, stick Royal’s CBD Roll-On Gel in your gym bag or purse for cooling and soothing sore muscles on the go. 

ROYAL CBD DISCOUNT CODE: Use the code MG15 for 15% off your next order.

Royal CBD Cream (Cool Relief Balm) Product Specs:

• Potency: 5/5 — Very high potency (500 mg) offers effective pain relief. 

• Third-Party Testing: 5/5 — Ensures good quality and purity in each product. 

• Price: 4/5— High price point but worth it for the strong and rapid relief. 

• Quantity: A 2-oz jar offers a good amount of product for the price.

• Packaging: Screw-lid jar is easy for storing and applying on the go. 

Ingredients: Broad-spectrum CBD, menthol, calendula, ginger, clove, and lavender.

Usage Information: Customer reviews suggest using the product twice daily, once in the morning and once at night. 

2. Gold Bee CBD Soothing Freeze Roll-On Gel (Best On-the-Go Relief)

Pros & Cons:

• Contains 2000 mg of broad-spectrum CBD that can target stubborn pain.

• A user-friendly roll-on applicator is perfect for on-the-go usage.

• Aloe vera and arnica help to reduce inflammation and support skin barrier health. 

• Non-GMO and cruelty-free formula means a safe, ethical product. 

• The roll-on format may not be suitable for targeting larger areas of discomfort. 

Gold Bee is a botanical-focused company that creates non-GMO CBD food supplements and health products. Its portfolio caters to both humans and household pets.

The brand’s Soothing Freeze Roll On Gel comes in a 3-oz tube packed with 2000 mg broad-spectrum CBD. 

It also includes relieving ingredients like menthol that cool the local area and reduce surface-level skin discomfort. Adding aloe vera, arnica, and frankincense works to restore the skin to its usual sensitivity and aid recovery from wounds and injuries. Green tea and yerba mate make this product unique, improving blood flow and recovery time. 

The gel can be applied directly to the skin and works well on the neck, wrists, and knees. It is ideal for users with active jobs and lifestyles, and its relieving properties cater to trade workers, athletes, backpackers, and even office workers. 

If you want to soothe your nerves as well as your body, Gold Bee’s Vegan CBD Gummies are great to take before a chilled night out or a public conference. 

GOLD BEE DISCOUNT CODE: Use the coupon code BEE15 for 15% off your next order (limited time only).

Gold Bee CBD Soothing Freeze Roll-on Gel Product Specs:

• Potency: 5/5 — Delivers 20 mg CBD per mL for powerful relief. 

• Third-Party Testing: 5/5 — Rigorous testing ensures purity, potency, and safety.

• Price: 4/5 — $84 is high but justified by the potency and ease of application.

• Quantity: A 3-oz tube will go a long way for targeted relief. 

• Packaging: Roll-on tube ensures easy and mess-free application.

Ingredients: Contains a massive 2000 mg of broad-spectrum CBD. Additional ingredients include menthol, green tea, yerba mate, arnica, aloe vera, and frankincense.

User Information: Apply a small amount of gel to the localized area between two and four times a day. When applying, wait up to 90 minutes to feel the full effects. 

3. CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cream, Cooling Formula

Pros:

• Ingredients such as white willow bark and caffeine offer anti-inflammatory benefits. 

• The water-based formula ensures quick and easy absorption.

• Vegan and cruelty-free ingredients cater to all customers’ preferences.

Cons:

• A higher price point may not be suitable for all budgets. 

• The menthol scent can be overpowering. 

CBDfx was founded in 2014 and has since then solidified itself as a trusted provider of CBD products across the globe. It caters to 20+ countries from its base in the San Fernando Valley. 

Depending on potency, CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cream contains either 1000 mg or 3000 mg of broad-spectrum CBD, menthol to cool the local area, and caffeine to decrease swelling and prevent further inflammation. 

The product’s other active ingredient is white willow bark, which converts from salicin to salicylic acid when in contact with the body. As a result, it can penetrate into the deeper aches and pains and potentially reduce muscle discomfort within 10 to 20 minutes. 

As a water-based product, the products are absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy residue — perfect for on-the-go application without worrying about staining clothes. 

CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cream, Cooling Formula Product Specs:

• Potency: 4/5 — Two potencies (1000 mg and 3000 mg CBD) are effective for muscle and joint pain. 

• Third-Party Testing: 4/5 — Traceable lab reports on every product, but they could be updated more often.

• Price: 3/5 — A higher cost of $49.99 to $99.99 may not work for all budgets.

• Quantity: Both potency options are available in a 1.7-oz bottle.

• Packaging: A pump dispensing bottle for ease of use. 

Ingredients: Active ingredients include broad-spectrum CBD, menthol, white willow bark, and caffeine. 

Usage Information: An application can provide relief for a few hours; the effects usually take 10 to 20 minutes to kick in. 

4. Level Select Sports CBD Cream, Level 2 Mint

Pros:

• Formulated for higher levels of muscle soreness and may aid recovery of more complex injuries. 

• Fast-absorbing, non-greasy feel is ideal for everyday usage.

• Powerful menthol ensures a rapid cooling sensation immediately. 

Cons:

• Heavy menthol content may not be suitable for people with irritable skin or dermatitis. 

• Just one potency option may not suit people looking for stronger products. 

Level Select CBD is, in its own words, "driven by the pursuit of perfection," particularly surrounding sports performance. Its primary focus is on accelerated recovery and rapid pain relief for high-performance athletes and anyone active.

Containing 1200 mg of broad-spectrum CBD per jar, the Level Select Sports CBD Cream, Level 2 Mint, is ideal for more complex pain relief, muscle aches, and performance recovery. The product has a high menthol content, which immediately soothes the skin, and camphor works to ease tension and promote absorption. 

Other functional ingredients include horse chestnut, organic comfrey, and rosemary extract, which support natural restorative processes. Arnica is also present in the formula and promotes circulation while decreasing inflammation. The addition of hempseed and lemongrass essential oils is an interesting feature, as these work to nourish and hydrate the top layer of skin as the main ingredients penetrate further layers. 

Level Select Sports CBD Cream, Level 2 Mint Product Specs:

• Potency: 4/5 — 1200 mg of broad-spectrum CBD caters to complex muscle pains. 

• Third-Party Testing: 4/5 — Lab results are easy to access and reliable, but lack detail.

• Price: 3/5 – At $40, slightly more expensive than other market alternatives.

• Quantity: 3 oz provides 40 mg CBD per application. 

• Packaging: Available in a screw-lid jar.

Ingredients: Functional ingredients include CBD, menthol, arnica, comfrey, horse chestnut, rosemary extract, hempseed, and lemongrass essential oils. 

Usage Information: Massage a pea-sized amount into clean, unbroken skin until thoroughly absorbed, and reapply as needed. 

5. R&R Full-Spectrum CBD Cream

Pros:

• Multiple potency options to choose from that cater to individuals’ needs.

• It contains arnica and aloe vera, which work to naturally soothe irritated skin. 

• Suitable for various types of topical pain for whole-body relief. 

Cons:

• Contains trace amounts of THC, which may not suit those with sensitivities

• A high price point for all three potency options may not suit all budgets. 

R&R is a wellbeing brand that harnesses CBD to create holistic solutions to physical discomfort. It is an all-natural company founded by three ex-Marine Corps members looking to decrease stress and increase healthy sleep. 

The R&R Full-Spectrum CBD Cream comes in three potencies: 1000 mg, 2500 mg, and 5000 mg, with the medium strength being the most popular. 

Apart from trace amounts of THC, this product also includes Vitamin E, which boosts skin moisture, and jojoba oil to reduce inflammation. Various antioxidants speed healing, and arnica relieves muscle and joint pain. MSM is a unique sulfur-containing compound in this product, which contains anti-inflammatories and antioxidants. 

R&R Full-Spectrum CBD Cream Product Specs:

• Potency: 4/5 — Three potency options for customizing effective pain relief (1000, 2500, and 5000 mg).

• Third-Party Testing: 4/5 — Lab tests are fairly detailed and easily available on the website.

• Price: 3/5 — Prices range from $55 to $130, making it an expensive choice.

• Quantity: Choose from three options — 1000 mg, 2500 mg, and 5000 mg.

• Packaging: These products come in a 2.5-oz squeezy tube.

Ingredients: Full-spectrum CBD, arnica, jojoba oil, MSM, and Vitamin E. 

Usage Information: Start with a small amount of cream and rub thoroughly into clean, unbroken skin. You may feel results in as little as five minutes.

6. PlusCBD Pain Relief Penetrating Cream 

Pros:

• Ideal for targeted pain relief, such as neuropathic, joint, and muscle pain.

• The dual sensation formula contains cooling menthol and warming camphor.

Cons:

• Only available as a single potency option, so it may not suit more complex pain issues.

• CBD isolate may not provide as many benefits as full- and broad-spectrum formulas.

• Dual cooling and warming sensations may be overwhelming for some. 

PlusCBD specializes in nutraceuticals and research-support ingredients. With 10 years of industry experience and a US Hemp Authority certification, the company’s core values lie within science, nature, and customer satisfaction. 

The CBD Pain Relief Penetrating Cream is formulated to alleviate physical discomfort from joint, muscle, and neuropathic pain. The 1000 mg of CBD per tube works alongside the cooling menthol and warming camphor, providing mild relief. The brand suggests using the cream for minor pain and occasional soreness. 

PlusCBD Pain Relief Penetrating Cream Product Specs:

• Potency: 3/5 — Relatively effective with 1000 mg of CBD, but not strong enough to treat more complex pain.

• Third-Party Testing: 4/5 — Detailed lab results ensure high standards.

• Price: 3/5 — At $39.99, the price is high for a CBD isolate cream. 

• Quantity: Each 2-oz tube contains 1000 mg of CBD. 

• Packaging: This product comes in a squeezable tube for easy application.

Ingredients: It contains CBD, camphor, and menthol.

Usage Information: The brand suggests that users apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub it into the skin until absorbed. 

7. Soul CBD Rapid Relief Cream

Pros:

• The rapid action formula may provide quick pain relief after application.

• Well-rated user reviews for real-world feedback before purchasing.

Cons:

• Contains CBD isolate, so lacks other cannabinoids and the entourage effect. 

• Quite a high cost considering the low potency of the product.

• Primarily available online, not available in physical stores. 

Built by a brother and sister duo, Soul is a natural wellness brand backed by science and quality assurance. It aims to offer people with injuries and illnesses an alternative treatment method not found in mainstream medicine. 

The Soul CBD Rapid Relief Cream targets stubborn pain and on-demand relief with professional athletes in mind. It contains a dose of 1500 mg of CBD in each 3.4-oz bottle. This cream is supplemented with other active ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus, and rosemary.  

Soul CBD Rapid Relief Cream Product Specs:

• Potency: 3/5 — 1500 mg of CBD is ideal for mild and immediate pain relief. 

• Third-Party Testing: 4/5 — Lab results are readily available for each product and offer good detail.

• Price: 3/5 – At $75, the price point is fairly high compared to other, more potent products.

• Quantity: The formula contains 1500 mg of isolate CBD, ideal for treating a variety of mild pain issues. You get a 3.4-oz bottle. 

• Packaging: This product comes in a pump-lid bottle for on-the-go application.

Ingredients: CBD isolate, menthol, hemp seed, eucalyptus, rosemary oil, and shea butter.

Usage Information: Apply the cream to the affected area and massage thoroughly. Let the cooling sensation subside and wait for the results. 

8. Carmen’s Medicinals Better in a Balm

Pros:

• Formulated with numerous essential oils, adding therapeutic benefits. 

• Non-greasy balm formula ensures easy absorption. 

Cons:

• Coconut oil provides a strong scent, which some users may not enjoy.

• Only one potency option may not cater to more complex pain cases. 

• High prices may not suit users on tighter budgets. 

Established in 2018, Carmen’s Medicinals prides itself on using organic materials to produce high-quality botanicals that are accessible to all, regardless of financial challenges. It has sold +350,000 products to US customers. 

The brand uses full-spectrum extract rather than isolate CBD to ensure its products contain an array of beneficial cannabinoids and phytonutrients. 

Carmen’s Medicinals Better in a Balm is a CBD salve that is ideal for addressing localized joint and muscle discomfort. It’s infused with coconut oil to provide a smooth application. The product contains 1000 mg of CBD, peppermint, lavender, coconut oil extract, beeswax, and eucalyptus. 

It can be used to target inflammation throughout the day to promote healing and decrease swelling. You can also apply the salve to areas of muscle tension to gently relieve pain. 

Carmen’s Medicinal Better in a Balm Product Specs:

• Potency: 3/5 — The 1000 mg CBD is suitable for mild pain but may not be effective for severe issues.

• Third-Party Testing: 3/5 — Lab reports are available, but should be more recent. 

• Price: 3/5 — $44.99 is quite high considering there is only one potency option.

• Quantity: The 2-oz jar contains 1000 mg of full-spectrum CBD.

• Packaging: The salve is packaged in a screw-lid tub with a QR-code label that links to lab reports. 

Ingredients: Better in a Balm contains an array of essential oils, CBD, beeswax, and eucalyptus extracts. 

Usage Information: Apply the balm to clean, unbroken skin and rub until the salve is fully absorbed. 

Benefits of Using CBD Cream

It is widely known that CBD has diverse and effective pain management solutions when applied to the skin and when ingested. However, when used topically (applied to the skin), CBD cream has three main benefits, which we'll explore below.

1. Pain Relief

Research has shown that topical application of CBD cream has significantly helped the recovery of mild irritation, skin-barrier breakages, and deeper, more complex pain cases [1]. 

2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

CBD also provides anti-inflammatory relief. In recent studies on both human and animal subjects, cannabinoids have shown remarkable abilities to reduce arthritis (joint inflammation) and surface-level inflammation in subjects with mild to severe acne [1, 2]. 

3. Skin Hydration

New studies also show that CBD creams are, in some cases, effective in treating various skin and cosmetic disorders, such as eczema, psoriasis, and surface-level inflammatory conditions. CBD can protect the fatty acids in cell membranes, which helps protect membrane integrity. In short, CBD cream has been found to aid cell plumpness and offer antioxidant properties [3]. 

Potential Side Effects of CBD Creams

It is uncommon for users to face side effects from CBD creams; however, here are a couple that are more typical among users with sensitive skin and allergies. 

Skin Irritation & Allergies

Many CBD creams contain menthol, but this can cause problems since a very small percentage of the population is allergic to mint. If you are allergic to mint, choose a formula that does not contain menthol, and always perform a patch test before use [4]. 

This applies to any other ingredient you may be allergic to or have a sensitivity to. 

Similarly, high concentrations of menthol or essential oils may cause respiratory issues for people who have asthma or are prone to sneezing. If this is the case, ask your healthcare provider for advice on which oils to steer clear of. 

Some users may also have sensitivities to different botanicals, such as chamomile and arnica, or be advised against products containing tree nuts, such as coconut oil. 

How to Choose the Right CBD Cream

Before purchasing, it’s important to understand the main factors that make an effective CBD cream, such as the type of CBD, if the brand performs rigorous testing, and if the formula will irritate your skin. 

1. Consider the Type of CBD Cream

Pick a CBD extract that suits you. 

Full-spectrum contains all compounds found within the hemp plant, including THC. Broad-spectrum contains all cannabinoids except for THC. CBD isolate is simply that — CBD on its own. 

Broad- and full-spectrum options provide the entourage effect, where the cannabinoids work together to boost their holistic benefits. You won’t get this from CBD isolate. 

2. Potency

Choosing the correct potency is arguably the most important part of investing in CBD cream.

A lower-potency cream is ideal if you're looking for creams that target mild skin pain or muscle soreness. Medium-strength CBD creams work well for moderate muscle soreness, joint pain, and stubborn skin irritation. Finally, higher-potency creams are best for chronic issues such as arthritis or deep-tissue pain.

It's smart to also check the ingredient list for additional pain-relieving compounds, such as menthol or arnica. Start with a lower dose than needed, then work up to higher-potency creams.

3. Warming & Cooling Sensations

When checking the formula of CBD creams, see if the product will create a sensation when applied. 

Ingredients such as capsaicin, camphor, and essential oils create a warm, soothing sensation that helps relax muscles and improve circulation. Warming creams are best for muscle fatigue and arthritis.

Likewise, look for ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus that offer a cooling sensation, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated areas. These are particularly beneficial when treating workout injuries or joint pain.

4. Check for Third-Party Testing

Third-party testing is non-negotiable as this shows the brand double-checks the quality and safety of its products through unbiased experts.

Usually, you can find the COAs (certificates of analysis) for the product on its page or as part of a wider lab results page on the website. If you can’t find one, it’s best to steer clear. 

5. Assess the Ingredients List for Skin Sensitivities

It’s always smart to assess the ingredient list before buying, as this will outline any allergens in the formula. It also allows you to compare ingredient lists of multiple products to choose which formulas you like the most — non-GMO, free from sulfates, vegan-friendly — and which formulas you feel may upset or irritate your skin.

Understanding CBD Potency & Application

The CBD creams available on the market vary in potency, affecting how quickly and how effectively the products work. High-potency formulas can be applied more sparingly, while low-potency options might need to be applied in higher concentrations. 

However, it's important to note that high-potency products are not guaranteed to be highly effective. It is the combination of high-potency CBD with various other beneficial ingredients that makes for the most effective relief. 

The Importance of Dosage

Dosage is another contributing factor to the effectiveness of your CBD cream application. Industry experts advise users to start with a small dose and monitor the speed and strength of the relief. Once you have a good gauge of how the cream affects your targeted area, you can apply more or use it more regularly and customize the dosage to suit your needs.

How to Apply CBD Cream Effectively

You should always begin with a patch test to check if it causes any irritation. 

If your skin does not react, then you can begin by following these steps:

1. Wash and dry the target area.

2. Apply the product.

3. Massage into the skin until fully absorbed.

4. Wait up to 30 minutes for the effects to kick in. 

Legal Considerations of CBD Creams

Safe usage and application should be at the top of your list when researching which CBD creams to buy. Above all, it’s important to check the legal status of topical CBD  in your state [6]. This will ensure you abide by the law and are following the correct usage of CBD. 

In general, most states in the US allow the use of topical CBD. But, full- and broad-spectrum formulas may impose additional limits on their sale or use. It’s best to regularly check for legal updates and minor local law changes. 

Frequently Asked Questions: CBD Cream

Still curious if CBD cream can ease your aches? Check out some common queries below to provide a balm for your worries. 

1. What Does CBD Cream Do for Your Skin?

CBD cream can hydrate, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain in targeted areas. Additional ingredients may also provide additional effects, such as cooling or warming sensations. 

2. Can CBD Cream Make You Fail a Drug Test?

CBD creams shouldn’t cause you to fail a drug test because screenings don’t check for CBD. However, full-spectrum products contain trace amounts of THC, although this should not be present in your blood or urine when used topically. If in doubt, consult your healthcare provider or check with your employer.

3. How Often Can I Apply CBD Cream?

Always follow the application instructions provided by the brand, which range from one to four applications per day. Before applying, make sure the target area is clean and no skin is broken. 

4. Is CBD Cream Safe for All Skin Types?

In general, CBD cream is safe for everyone to use. However, consider performing a patch test first. Make sure that you don't have sensitivities or allergies to any of the other ingredients present. 

5. Does CBD Cream Interact With Medications?

CBD cream is highly unlikely to interact with medications because it has minimal systemic absorption. If you're concerned, consult your healthcare provider to ease your mind. 

6. Does CBD Lotion Work for Nerve Pain?

Yes, CBD lotion can be used to help treat nerve pain. This is because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. 

7. Can CBD Cream Be Used for Chronic Pain?

Yes, CBD cream is often used to manage chronic muscle pain and joint inflammation. Formulas typically contain anti-inflammatory products such as camphor and arnica. 

8. How Long Does It Take for CBD Cream to Work?

Most users note that CBD cream begins to work 10 to 30 minutes after application, although this can vary depending on the absorption rate of each product. 

9. Can I Use CBD Cream On My Face?

Yes, you can use CBD cream on your face, but make sure it’s formulated for facial skin. If in doubt, ask your healthcare provider to help find you a suitable cream. 

10. Can CBD Cream Be Used for Arthritis?

CBD cream is great for treating arthritis as it is formulated to reduce inflammation and soothe joint pain. Ingredients to look out for include camphor, menthol, and arnica.