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Business

Is It Safe to Buy CBD Cream Online? What to Know About Ingredients & Testing

May 24, 2025
judywatson

In recent years, CBD products have exploded in popularity, and CBD creams are now among the top choices for people seeking relief from joint pain, inflammation, skin conditions, and muscle soreness. With growing consumer interest and the convenience of digital shopping, many people are wondering: Is it safe to buy CBD cream online?

The short answer is yes—but with important caveats. Not all CBD creams are created equal, and online shopping brings its own risks and responsibilities. This guide explores how to shop safely, what ingredients to look for, and how testing ensures the quality and safety of the product you’re buying.

Why People Buy CBD Cream Online

Online CBD marketplaces offer numerous benefits:

  • Convenience: Browse and purchase without leaving your home.
  • Wider Selection: Access to a range of products, potencies, and formulations.
  • Better Pricing: Online-only deals, subscription discounts, and bulk options.
  • Customer Reviews: Real user experiences that help inform your choice.

However, the ease of access also increases the potential for counterfeit or low-quality products—especially when it comes to CBD creams.

What Is CBD Cream?

CBD cream is a topical formulation infused with cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound extracted from hemp. Unlike CBD oils or edibles, CBD creams are applied directly to the skin, offering localized relief for issues like:

  • Arthritis
  • Muscle soreness
  • Skin irritation
  • Inflammation
  • Eczema and psoriasis

Because CBD creams don’t enter the bloodstream, they are often favored by users who want the benefits of CBD without ingesting it.

Is It Safe to Buy CBD Cream Online?

It can be safe—if you’re buying from a reputable source and you know what to look for. Here are key things to consider before clicking “Add to Cart.”

1. Check for Third-Party Lab Testing (COA)

Every legitimate CBD product should come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This is a lab report from an independent third-party that verifies:

  • CBD content matches the label.
  • No harmful contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or molds.
  • THC levels are within legal limits (0.3% or less for hemp-derived CBD).

If the company doesn’t provide test results or makes it hard to find them, don’t buy.

2. Understand the Ingredients

Not all CBD creams are made with the same standards. Look for:

✅ Safe & Effective Ingredients:

  • Full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD for maximum benefit.
  • Natural oils and butters (e.g., shea butter, coconut oil) for skin nourishment.
  • Essential oils (e.g., menthol, lavender, eucalyptus) for added therapeutic effect.

🚫 Avoid:

  • Artificial fragrances or dyes
  • Parabens and sulfates
  • Mineral oil or petroleum-based ingredients
  • Unknown or vague “proprietary blends”

Always read the full ingredient list before you buy CBD cream online to avoid allergic reactions or skin irritation.

3. Review the Brand’s Reputation

Before you trust a brand, look into:

  • Verified customer reviews
  • Transparency in sourcing and manufacturing
  • Customer service responsiveness
  • Return and refund policies

Reputable CBD brands will be upfront about their farming practices, extraction methods (CO2 extraction is best), and product formulation.

4. Know the Types of CBD Used

When shopping online, you’ll come across different types of CBD:

  • Full-Spectrum: Contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace THC (<0.3%). Offers the “entourage effect.”
  • Broad-Spectrum: Similar to full-spectrum but with THC removed.
  • CBD Isolate: Pure CBD, no other cannabinoids or compounds.

Each type has its benefits. Full-spectrum may provide more comprehensive relief, while isolate is best for those sensitive to THC or drug tested regularly.

5. Watch Out for Unrealistic Claims

No legitimate CBD cream will claim to cure arthritis, cancer, or any chronic disease. Be cautious if you see:

  • “Instant pain relief”
  • “Cures all skin conditions”
  • “100% guaranteed results”

The FDA has not approved CBD creams for medical use, so any company making exaggerated health claims is likely untrustworthy.

6. Shipping, Laws & Regulations

While hemp-derived CBD is legal in many countries, it’s essential to check your local laws before you buy CBD cream online. Also, ensure:

  • The product ships to your location.
  • Packaging is discreet and secure.
  • The company has good return policies in case of damaged or faulty products.

7. Microdosing or Maximum Strength?

CBD creams vary widely in concentration. Some offer 200mg per container, while others go as high as 3000mg. Choose based on your needs:

  • Low potency (200–500mg): Good for general skincare or minor relief.
  • Medium potency (500–1000mg): Ideal for moderate inflammation or soreness.
  • High potency (1000mg+): Best for chronic pain or deep tissue relief.

If you’re new, start low and work your way up.

Final Thoughts

Yes, it’s safe to buy CBD cream online—but only if you do your homework. Stick with reputable brands, read lab reports, and study ingredient lists before making a purchase. With so many products on the market, being an informed buyer ensures you get a safe, effective cream tailored to your needs.

CBD has incredible potential for pain relief and skincare, but your experience depends largely on the quality of the product. Buy smart, and you’ll enjoy the benefits without the risks.