Topicals in Washington State: A Guide

 

What Are Cannabis Topicals?

Cannabis topicals are products applied directly to the skin — creams, gels, balms, salves, oils, and lotions infused with cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBG, or CBN. Unlike edibles or inhalable products, topicals are designed to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin and underlying tissue rather than entering the bloodstream in any significant quantity. This is the distinction that makes them a different product category from everything else in our dispensary.

The broader umbrella of “applied cannabis products” also includes suppositories and intimate lubricants, which work through mucosal absorption rather than skin absorption. We’ll cover those in this article too — because they exist, they work differently, and they also serve to benefit your overall well-being. Fair warning: that section of the article is going to get a little more, uh, personal.

 

Do Cannabis Topicals Really Work?

This is the real question that folks want the answer to, so let’s not bury it.

The short version: yes, for many people and for certain applications, cannabis topicals work. The longer version involves a bit of nuance, which we will get through as painlessly as possible.

Most conventional topicals (creams, gels, and balms) work through local absorption. Cannabinoids bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the skin, muscles, and joints without reaching the bloodstream in concentrations that would be intoxicating. This means they can provide localized relief for things like muscle soreness, joint inflammation, and skin irritation without producing any psychoactive effects. The “will I get high from this?” answer is a hard “no,” which is one of the main reasons topicals have such a broad appeal.

Transdermal products are a different story. Specifically formulated to penetrate past the skin barrier and enter the bloodstream, transdermal products can produce systemic effects and — depending on the formulation — potentially affect a drug test. Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) based gels like Fairwinds’ FLOW Gel fall into this category. So transdermal doesn’t mean “stronger topical,” it means “fundamentally different delivery mechanism.” Just something worth considering before you slather something on before a long shift.

As for the research: the clinical evidence on cannabis topicals [specifically] is still catching up, partly because cannabis research has historically been difficult to conduct in the US. There’s evidence that many of the individual supporting ingredients in topical formulas (menthol, camphor, arnica, methyl salicylate, capsicum) have solid scientific backing regardless of the cannabis aspect. The cannabis likely helps, the herbs definitely help, and the combination is where things get interesting.

 

Who Uses Cannabis Topicals?

A lot more people use topicals than you’d expect.

Cannabis topicals have a broader demographic reach than almost any other product category in our store. Athletes use topicals for post-workout recovery. People dealing with chronic joint pain or arthritis use them daily. Consumers with skin conditions use CBD-rich formulations to address localized inflammation. And people who are cannabis-curious but specifically do not want to get high use topicals as a low-risk approach to using cannabis for pain management.

The numbers back this up: according to a 2025 report by Cannabis Science & Technology, topicals are projected to see a compound annual growth rate of 10.5% (one of the highest growth rates among smaller cannabis product categories). That growth isn’t driven by trend-chasing, it’s driven by people discovering that putting cannabis on the outside of their body actually does something useful.

 

How Do You Use Cannabis Topicals?

Most topicals are intuitive: you apply to the affected area, massage it in, and let it work. But here are a few principles to keep in mind:

Start with a small amount. Most quality topicals are more concentrated than they look, and a little tends to go a long way. Fairwinds specifically recommends a pea-sized drop as a starting point for their FLOW products, which is good general guidance across most cream-based topicals.

Apply to clean, dry skin where possible. This improves absorption and makes the active ingredients more effective.

Give it time. Unlike inhalable products, topicals don’t produce instant results. Most people notice effects within 15 to 30 minutes. Some products work better with consistent use over time rather than as a single application.

For transdermal products specifically, wipe away any excess after massaging in. This reduces the risk of unintended transfer to other people or surfaces — which is both a safety consideration and, depending on your household situation, just good manners.

 

Do Cannabis Topicals Show Up in Drug Tests?

For conventional topicals: generally, no. Because cannabinoids in standard cream and balm formulations are absorbed locally rather than systemically, they typically don’t produce detectable THC metabolites in urine. This is a big part of why topicals appeal to people who are subject to workplace testing but still want cannabis-based relief.

Transdermal products are a real exception here. If a product is specifically designed to deliver cannabinoids into the bloodstream (which DMSO-based formulations are), there is a higher probability of systemic absorption and a higher risk of testing positive on a drug test. If this is a concern for you, ask your budtender which products on our shelves are transdermal versus conventional before committing to anything.

If you’re feeling especially doubtful or nervous about failing a drug test, then maybe topicals aren’t for you. Though you will likely be safe, there is still a remote chance of testing positive for THC, so there is an inherent risk to using cannabis topicals. If it’s any consolation, we see all your other co-workers here all the time.

 

Topicals Available at 210 Cannabis Co

Here is a brand-by-brand breakdown of every topical and applied cannabis product we currently carry at our dispensary in Arlington, Washington. If something has changed on the shelf since this was written, our budtenders will know (they always do).

 

Fairwinds

Fairwinds is one of Washington State’s most medically oriented cannabis producers, known for precise cannabinoid ratios and formulations built around specific wellness needs. Their topical lineup is among the most diverse and thoroughly developed you’ll find at any dispensary in Snohomish County.

 

Fairwinds FLOW Gel (High CBD)

Format: Gel (jar)
Potency: 900mg CBD / 7mg THC per 1.67oz jar
Key Ingredients: DMSO, Propylene Glycol, Trolamine Salicylate, Allantoin, CBD Oil, Bergamot Essential Oil, Lemon Essential Oil, Fresh Ginger Essential Oil, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Polysorbate 80

FLOW Gel is Fairwinds’ flagship transdermal pain product and a multiple-award-winning formula. I’ve already mentioned DMSO a few times, as it is important to understand this key ingredient. DMSO is a carrier compound that dramatically enhances skin penetration, allowing cannabinoids and other active ingredients to reach deeper tissue than any standard cream could. This makes FLOW Gel one of the more powerful options for deep muscle pain, joint discomfort, or chronic soreness.
Because it’s transdermal, FLOW Gel carries the same awareness considerations as any product that enters the bloodstream. Start with a pea-sized amount, massage it in, and wipe away the excess. Wash your hands after application.

FLOW Gel is best for: deep tissue pain relief, chronic joint discomfort, post-activity recovery.

 

Fairwinds FLOW Cream (1:1:1)

Format: Cream (jar)
Potency: 300mg CBD / 300mg THC / 300mg CBG per 1.67oz jar
Key Ingredients: RO Water, Essential Oil Blend (Nutmeg, Turmeric, Clove, Peppermint, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Bergamot, Cinnamon), Trolamine Salicylate, Menthol Crystals, Borneol, Allantoin, Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, CBG Oil, THC Oil, CBD Oil, Vitamin E

FLOW Cream offers a 1:1:1 ratio of CBD, THC, and CBG… an unusually balanced cannabinoid profile that’s rather uncommon in topicals. It also includes ceramides and hyaluronic acid, two clinically recognized skincare ingredients that support skin barrier function and moisture retention. This product pulls double duty: targeted relief and skin health in the same jar. Fairwinds also incorporates their proprietary “Canna Vera” extract (the plant’s polysaccharides, lipids, and waxes, separate from the cannabinoids) which they describe as contributing a shea butter-like quality to the formula’s performance.

Best for: muscle and joint relief, skin health maintenance, consumers who want a full spectrum cannabinoid experience in a topical.

 

A Note on Fairwinds Rectify and Feminine Relief

These two products appear topical-adjacent but are technically suppositories — rectal and vaginal respectively — and work through mucosal absorption rather than skin application. Rectify contains 5mg CBD, 5mg THCA, and 10mg THC per serving in an organic cocoa and shea butter base with Boswellia, Peony, and Berberine. Feminine Relief uses the same base with Red Sage added. Both are designed to be non-intoxicating and are worth knowing about if you’re managing conditions that standard topicals can’t address. Your budtender can walk you through these comfortably.

 

Fairwinds O Intimate Lubricant

Format: Pump bottle
Potency: 2mg THC / 0.4mg CBD per pump; 140mg THC / 30mg CBD per package
Key Ingredients: Medical-Grade Silicone Blend, Cannabis Concentrate, Terpenes, Polysorbate

Fairwinds’ cannabis-infused intimate lubricant is silicone based, long lasting, hypoallergenic, latex safe, and formulated with very pure ingredients designed for sensitive skin. Unlike water-based lubes, silicone base doesn’t dry out or get sticky. Dosing is two milligrams of THC per pump, with a 10 to 15 minute onset to feel the effects. Cannabinoids interact with receptors in mucosal tissue in ways that increase blood flow, enhance sexual pleasure, and reduce discomfort.

 

Ceres

Ceres is a vertically integrated Washington cannabis brand with their own CO2 extraction facility and over a decade of operating history. Their Dragon Balm line is one of the most popular cannabis topical brands in the state.

 

Ceres Dragon Balm MAX (Gold)

Format: Roll-on and salve formats available
Key Ingredients: Camphor, Menthol, Almond Oil, Beeswax, Cajuput Oil, Cassia Oil, Clove Oil, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Hemp Extract, Hempseed Oil, Peppermint

Dragon Balm MAX is the higher-potency version of Ceres’ flagship topical, combining a classic analgesic (pain relieving) formula with cannabis extract. Think of it as a two-stage experience: immediate cooling relief on the surface, followed by deeper cannabinoid relief as the formula soaks in.

Best for: Sports recovery, improved mobility, and everyday aches. The roll-on format is particularly practical for applying to the lower back, knees, or shoulders without coating your hands in the process.

 

Ceres Dragon Balm XTRA (1:1)

Format: Roll-on and salve formats available
Key Ingredients: Camphor, Menthol, Almond Oil, Beeswax, Cajuput Oil, Cassia Oil, Clove Oil, Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Hemp Extract, Hempseed Oil, Peppermint

Same foundational formula as Dragon Balm MAX, adjusted to a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio for consumers who want more CBD in their topical experience. If you’ve tried the MAX and found it leans harder into THC than you’d prefer, or if you’re a medical patient specifically seeking that balance, XTRA 1:1 is the version you want.

 

Honu

Honu is a brand under the Klaritie Farms umbrella, best known in Washington for their award-winning handcrafted chocolates (Dope Cup 2019, Light Up Cup). Their topical line, Honu Naturals, brings the same attention to craft into the personal care space.

 

Honu Naturals Bath Bombs

Format: 3oz bath bomb (split in half for two uses)
Available scents: Nirvana Hibiscus, Lavender (Relax), Harmony (Fresh Mint)

Honu’s bath bombs are cannabis infused, handmade, and designed around the idea that your bath is already a wellness ritual and therefore might as well have cannabinoids in it. The Nirvana Hibiscus is floral and uplifting, formulated with skin nourishing natural oils. The Lavender version is the expected relaxation play, and it delivers on that exactly as promised. Harmony is the fresh mint option for people who want something invigorating rather than sedating. Each bomb is 3oz and designed to be split for two uses, which is a very practical touch.

Best for: relaxation, skin nourishment, full-body cannabis absorption, people who want to feel like they’re at a spa without actually having to go to one.

 

4.20 Bar Rosin Topicals (by Evergreen Herbal)

Evergreen Herbal’s rosin topical line brings their hash rosin expertise into the topical category with two products: one for day use and one for night. Both are built around rosin-infused sunflower oil.

 

4.20 Bar Day Rosin Topical

Format: Bottle (oil)
Potency: 500mg THC / CBD / CBG per bottle
Key Ingredients: Hash Rosin infused with Sunflower Oil and CBG

The Day Rosin Topical is formulated with CBG (cannabigerol) as the supporting cannabinoid alongside THC and CBD. CBG has been studied for its potential role in supporting alertness and energy rather than sedation, making it a logical pairing for daytime use. The rosin base — rather than distillate or CO2 extract — means you’re getting a full-spectrum, solvent free oil that carries the natural terpene expression of the source material. Sunflower oil is a light, non-comedogenic carrier that absorbs cleanly without blocking your pores.

Best for: daytime pain relief, energy-forward recovery, consumers who prefer rosin-based products.

 

4.20 Bar Night Rosin Topical

Format: Bottle (oil)
Potency: 500mg THC / CBD / CBN per bottle
Key Ingredients: Hash Rosin infused with Sunflower Oil and CBN

The Night Rosin Topical swaps CBG for CBN (cannabinol), a cannabinoid associated with relaxation and sleep support. Same rosin infused sunflower oil base, same clean absorption profile, but oriented toward evening use and winding down rather than staying functional. If you’re the kind of person who finds that sore muscles contribute to poor sleep, this product will address both problems at once.

Best for: evening recovery, sleep support, nighttime pain relief.

 

Skagit Organics

Skagit Organics is one of Washington State’s most medically respected cannabis producers, operating out of Mount Vernon with a testing program that goes beyond DOH standards. They test for terpenes and DDT (things most producers don’t bother with) and their entire lineup is built around a patient-centric philosophy that takes the “wellness product” framing seriously rather than using it as marketing language. Mad respect.

 

Skagit Organics Wild Mint Plain Jane

Format: Lotion (2.5oz)
Potency: CBD / THC / CBG blend
Key Ingredients: Unscented lotion base infused with cannabis oil blend

Plain Jane is exactly what it sounds like, which is the point. This is an unscented, silky smooth lotion designed for people who want cannabis topical relief without any of the additional aromatics; no camphor, no menthol, no eucalyptus, no fragrance. It absorbs quickly, leaves skin soft and smooth and lets the cannabinoids do the work without any supporting cast. For people with fragrance sensitivities, or anyone who works in a setting where a strong camphor or peppermint smell would be noticeable, this is a very useful option.

Best for: fragrance-sensitive consumers, clean daily moisturizing relief, discreet topical use.

 

Cannabis Lubricants

I mentioned intimate lubricants earlier in this article, and they deserve their own brief section because they’re a totally different product than a topical cream. As stated before, cannabis lubricants work through mucosal absorption (a faster and more direct route than skin) and they’re specifically designed for intimate use. The effects are localized, the onset is faster than edibles, and the experience is distinct from anything else in the dispensary. We carry two options.

 

Fairwinds O Intimate Lubricant

Covered in the Fairwinds section above. Silicone-based, 2mg THC per pump, latex safe. The methodical, clinical approach to an intimate product… which is either appealing or not depending on your personality.

 

Velvet Swing Cannabis Intimate Lubricant

Format: Bottle
Potency: 100mg THC / 33mg CBD per bottle

Key Ingredients: Water-based formula with cannabis extract and a proprietary terpene profile

Velvet Swing takes a different approach than Fairwinds’ O Lube in both formulation and brand identity. It’s water-based rather than silicone-based, which means it’s compatible with latex and silicone toys (silicone lubes can degrade silicone). It’s non-irritating, paraben free, glycerin free, and propylene-glycol free. The terpene profile was developed by Mistress Matisse, a professional sex educator and longtime cannabis advocate, with the explicit goal of increasing sensitivity and supporting longer, more intense experiences. The onset is typically around 20 minutes after application, with peak effects lasting 2 to 4 hours.

The 100mg THC / 33mg CBD formulation is designed to increase blood flow, relax smooth muscle, and heighten sensation locally. It’s a product that was designed by someone who thought carefully about what it’s supposed to do, which is rarer than it should be in this category.

 

Cannabis Topicals in Washington State: What You Need to Know

Washington’s I-502 framework governs cannabis topicals the same way it governs all cannabis products: tested, labeled with potency, and sold exclusively through licensed retail locations. This matters because it means every topical on our shelf at 210 has passed the state’s compliance and testing process. You know what’s in it. You know how much of each cannabinoid is present. That’s not something you can necessarily say about the hemp CBD topicals sold online.

Washington produced topicals can also contain THC, which makes them a fundamentally different product than a $20 CBD cream from a gas station (and if you’ve tried one of those and found it underwhelming, that’s not topicals failing you, that’s hemp derived minimal-THC products failing you. Come try the real thing).

 

Come See Us in Arlington

210 Cannabis Co is a Native-owned dispensary located at 1309 236th St NE in Arlington, serving cannabis consumers and medical patients throughout Snohomish County, Marysville, Stanwood, and surrounding communities. We’re open 8am to 10pm every day.

Our budtenders know the topicals category well and can help you find something specific based on what you’re trying to address. Browse our menu, or come in and have the conversation in person!