How to Make Your Own CBD Topical

Topicals occupy a unique space in the broader cannabis landscape. They’re practical, approachable, and—unlike many other products—designed to work locally, right where the body needs them.

Making your own topical at home doesn’t require specialized equipment, but it does require a basic understanding of why certain ingredients are used, how cannabinoids behave when applied to the skin, how gentle heat and proper ratios preserve both effectiveness and texture, and (of course) hemp flower.

This guide provides a simple formula, with context for each ingredient and method, so you can confidently customize it over time.

Why Cannabis Topicals Work Differently

Unlike inhaled or ingested cannabis, topicals are not intended to enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. Instead, cannabinoids interact with CB2 receptors and other components of the skin’s endocannabinoid system, remaining localized near the area of application.

This is why cannabis topicals…

• Do not produce intoxicating effects
• Are suitable for daily or situational use
• Can be layered into existing wellness routines

Understanding this localized action is key, as it informs everything from ingredient selection to dosing expectations.

The Building Blocks of a Cannabis Topical

At its core, a topical is a carrier system. The goal is to dissolve cannabinoids into fats or oils that absorb well into the skin, then stabilize that mixture into a usable texture.

1. Carrier Oils

Carrier oils act as the medium that literally carries the cannabinoids into the skin.

Common choices include:

• Coconut oil: Solid at room temperature, melts easily on contact, highly stable
• Olive oil: Liquid, deeply moisturizing, rich in antioxidants
• Jojoba oil: Structurally similar to human sebum, an oil substance that plays a role in forminf the epidermal barrier, absorbs quickly

Why this matters: cannabinoids are fat-soluble, meaning they bind efficiently to oils but not water. Without a proper carrier oil, cannabinoids simply won’t distribute evenly.

2. Cannabis Input

Rather than infusing raw CBD flower at home, many people choose to start with finished cannabis products such as CBD Oil or CBD concentrates (such as terpsolate or RSO). This simplifies dosing and improves consistency.

Why this matters: using a known concentration allows you to calculate potency more reliably and avoid overheating raw plant material, which can degrade cannabinoids.

3. Beeswax or Plant Wax (Structure & Stability)

Wax determines the final texture of your topical.

• More wax = firmer balm or salve
• Less wax = softer, more spreadable product

Beeswax is commonly used because it:

• Stabilizes the oil mixture
• Creates a protective barrier on the skin
• Extends shelf life

Plant-based alternatives (like candelilla wax) can be substituted if preferred.

4. Optional Botanicals & Essential Oils

This is where customization comes in, but restraint is important.

Common additions:

• Lavender
• Peppermint 
• Eucalyptus 

Why moderation matters: essential oils are highly concentrated. A few drops go a long way, and excessive amounts can irritate the skin.

A Simple, Repeatable Formula for CBD Topicals

This formula is designed as a starting point, not a rigid rule set.

Base Ratio:

• 1 cup carrier oil
• 1 - 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
• CBD Oil or concentrate (per desired potency)
• Optional essential oils (5 - 15 drops total)

Step-by-Step Method (And Why Each Step Matters)

• Gentle Heat

Melt the carrier oil and beeswax together using a double boiler or heat-safe bowl over simmering water.

Why: Direct heat can degrade cannabinoids. Gentle, indirect heat preserves potency and prevents scorching.

• Incorporate Cannabis

Once fully melted, remove from heat and stir in your cannabis tincture or distillate thoroughly.

Why: Adding cannabinoids after removing heat minimizes degradation and promotes even distribution.

• Add Botanicals (Optional)

Stir in essential oils last, just before pouring.

Why: Volatile compounds evaporate quickly under heat. Adding them last preserves aroma and skin benefits.

• Pour & Set

Pour into clean containers and allow to cool undisturbed until fully solid.

Why: Slow cooling prevents separation and ensures a uniform final texture.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Labeling

• Store in a cool, dark place
• Shelf life typically ranges from 6 - 12 months, depending on oils used
• Label containers with date and ingredients

Clean tools and containers are essential. Contamination—not cannabinoids—is usually what shortens shelf life.

Final Thoughts: Start Simple, Then Customize

The most successful DIY topicals begin with simplicity. Once you understand how oils, waxes, and cannabinoids interact, customization becomes intuitive rather than experimental.

For some, making a topical is about control and creativity. For others, it’s simply a way to integrate cannabis into a broader wellness routine.

Curious to learn more? Learn how to make salve with our RSO here.