What Are Cannabis Topicals & How Do They Work?
August 28, 2023
If skincare is your thing, you’re going to want to stop what you’re doing and read this. Cannabis topicals are becoming more and more popular, and they come in a bunch of different forms, ensuring most cannabis enthusiasts can find a product that works for them. In this guide, we’ll demystify this unique form of cannabis and explain everything you need to know about topicals, how to use them, and what they may (or may not) help treat.
What Are Cannabis Topicals?
Cannabis topicals are products infused with cannabinoids that are applied to the skin. While there are THC- and CBD-specific topicals available, many topicals offer a full spectrum approach, meaning that they contain THC, CBD, and a variety of other cannabinoids and compounds.
If you talk to a cannabis enthusiast about marijuana topicals, chances are good that you’re going to get a whole variety of things that topicals can treat. The truth is that we’re still studying the effects of topicals, so you should focus on how topicals feel to you and whether they offer you any sort of therapeutic relief.
How Do Cannabis Topicals Work?
Throughout your body, there is a system of receptors and endocannabinoids (the cannabinoids your body makes) called the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for your body’s ability to regulate when affected by different stressors, be it a hot day or hay fever season. Because there are also receptors in your skin, cannabis topicals can interact with those receptors to offer a more targeted approach to whatever relief you’re hoping to find. Cannabis enthusiasts will use topicals for a variety of reasons, including migraines and muscle cramps, but how your body reacts to a THC topical is entirely dependent on your body and your endocannabinoid system.
What Are the Different Types of Cannabis Topicals?
If you can find it in your skincare aisle, you can likely find a cannabis topical version of it. The different types of cannabis topicals include:
- Lotion
- Oil
- Balm
- Salve
- Bath salts
- Bath bombs
- Cream
- Spray
- Patches
If there’s a particular product that works best for you, we suggest looking for its cannabis cousin at your local dispensary.
What Are the Benefits of Cannabis Topicals?
The benefits of cannabis topicals will always be personal to you and your endocannabinoid system. That said, there is research being conducted for a variety of conditions to better understand if marijuana topicals could provide therapeutic benefits. Those conditions include:
Psoriasis: This chronic condition can cause inflammation, plaques, scales, and ultimately, itchiness and pain. Because CBD binds to the CB2 receptor, studies are exploring how it may help with some of the inflammation caused by this condition.
Acne: Millions of people around the world suffer from acne—but current treatments come with side effects. Researchers have found that CBD could have unique anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-oil (lipostatic) properties that may help treat acne.
Arthritis: This condition can cause inflammation and pain in countless people worldwide. Scientists have hypothesized that CBD may help with both issues when administered via transdermal patch. Studies on rat models have been promising.
Eczema: A combination of severe dry skin and itchiness, eczema can be an all-consuming condition. In some studies, cannabinoids have been shown to help with some of the itching and even reduce some of the appearance of eczema.
Anti-Inflammatory: A variety of conditions can cause inflammation on the skin and in the body. CBD has shown some antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in certain studies, and it is being explored further.
While plenty of research is being done on these conditions and others, there is nothing definitive at this point that can prove the therapeutic value of cannabis topicals.
Do Cannabis Topicals Have Psychoactive Effects?
For people who need to test clean of cannabinoids, they may be afraid to try topicals. The good news is that as long as you’re utilizing the topical on your limbs, neck, or torso, the cannabinoids cannot enter your bloodstream. As long as they can’t enter your bloodstream, they can’t have psychoactive effects.
The exception to this rule is cannabis lube. Due to the products contained in the lube, which are designed to help cannabinoids enter the bloodstream, it is possible to get cannabinoids in your system. That said, it’s unlikely you’d get enough THC through lube to feel any psychoactive effects.
CBD vs THC Topicals: What’s the Difference?
The biggest difference between a CBD topical and a THC topical is typically the cannabinoid THC—CBD topicals may not have any THC in them, and THC topicals definitely have THC in them. THC topicals must be sold in a dispensary, but CBD topicals, as long as they have less than 0.3% THC, can be sold outside of a dispensary.
Many people use and swear by CBD topicals for a variety of therapeutic reasons, but CBD and THC tend to work better together—especially if there is between 3% and 5% THC. This means that you’re better off purchasing a full-spectrum topical, which will have THC in it, from a dispensary to get the most value out of your topical.
Just remember, anything you purchase outside of a dispensary is part of an unregulated market. It’s best to ensure you’re only purchasing from reputable sellers with adequate third-party testing.
Answering FAQs About Cannabis Topicals
Cannabis topicals have become a part of many cannabis enthusiasts’ daily routines. Here are a few questions we regularly get from people just getting into topicals:
Can I make cannabis topicals at home?
Yes, you can make cannabis topicals at home. The only challenge is that it’s hard to ensure your dosing is correct, so be sure to do your research before making your own.
Where can I buy cannabis topicals?
To purchase cannabis topicals with THC, you’ll need to visit your dispensary. There, you’ll likely be able to choose between sprays, lotions, oils, creams, salves, bath products, and more.
How long do cannabis topicals last?
Every cannabis topical is different, but in general, they will last between four and six hours.
More About THC & CBD Topicals
If you’re interested in purchasing THC topicals, you can check the menu online and then visit your local dispensary. There, you should find a variety of topical options available. If there’s something specific you’re looking for, talk to your budtender. They can point you to a product that may be right for you.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
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Looking for a simple, portable way to enjoy cannabis flower? Meet the one-hitter pipe—a compact, discreet, and easy-to-use tool that’s perfect if you’re new to cannabis, prefer to microdose, or want to keep things low-key. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about one-hitter cannabis pipes, including what are one-hitters and how to use a one-hitter.
What Is a One Hitter?
A one-hitter pipe (sometimes called a chillum, bat, or taster) is a small, portable pipe designed for smoking flower in single hits. As the name suggests, these pipes are packed with just enough cannabis for a quick session.1
Unlike a regular hand pipe, a one-hitter doesn’t have a carburetor hole (carb), which makes it ideal for a discreet microdose or trying out THC without overdoing it. However, the smoke doesn’t cool much before reaching your mouth, so it can feel harsher than using a bong or bubbler.2
One-hitters come in various shapes and materials, but all are compact, making them easy to carry and use on the go.
What are the Different Types of One Hitters?
One-hitters come in several variations, each catering to different preferences and styles. Here are the most common types:
Bat
The bat, the most common type of one-hitter, is shaped like a miniature baseball bat. It’s a simple cylindrical pipe with two open ends: one for packing cannabis flower and the other for inhaling.
Chillums
Chillums are one of the oldest devices for smoking cannabis. Originally made from clay, modern chillums are often made from glass or ceramic. They’re slightly larger than standard one-hitters but smaller than regular pipes, offering a bit more capacity. These one-piece handheld pipes have a bowl, tunnel, and mouthpiece. In the olden days, they also had a chillum stone or stopper to prevent you from directly inhaling flower or hashish.3
Steamroller
A steamroller is like a one-hitter but includes a carburetor hole at the end for airflow control, allowing for bigger, more potent hits. As such, steamroller pipes are not ideal for newbies who should start with a low dose to first see how cannabis affects them. While the hit can be harsh, the steamroller’s small bowl makes them great for a few quick puffs instead of just one.4
These pipes can be made from clay, glass, wood, and plastic, similar to a bubbler. You can buy novelty steamrollers that resemble everyday items to add to your collection.
What Is a Dugout?
A dugout isn’t a pipe. It is a compact carrying case for your one-hitter and cannabis flower.5 It often includes a separate chamber for ground flower and may have compartments for a lighter or other tools like a metal poker. Essentially, it’s a convenient, all-in-one solution for on-the-go cannabis smoking sessions. Dugouts are great for portability but require pre-ground cannabis.6
How Do You Use a One-Hitter Pipe?
Using a one-hitter is straightforward and quite similar to using a regular pipe. But before you light up and take a hit, you’ll need a few essentials:
- Your favorite strain of cannabis flower
- A grinder
- A butane lighter
- A one-hit pipe
Once you have your supplies ready, follow these simple steps to smoke flower from a one-hitter cannabis pipe:7
Step 1: Lightly Grind Flower
Start by lightly grinding your cannabis to a consistency so you can pack it firmly while still allowing airflow. A fine grind ensures even burning and helps you get the most out of your flower, but don’t grind it too finely, or it could fall through the pipe.
Step 2: Pack the End
Pinch a small amount of flower and gently pack it into the open end of the one-hitter. Make sure the flower is snug but not overly tight—you need proper airflow to get smooth, consistent hits.
Step 3: Light & Inhale
Hold the one-hitter at an angle (upward so the cannabis doesn’t fall out), bring the flame from your butane lighter to the packed end, and inhale slowly through the mouthpiece. Rotate the pipe slightly as you light it to ensure the flower burns evenly, giving you a clean and satisfying hit.
How to Clean a One-Hitter Pipe
To keep your one-hitter clean and functional, you’ll need to gather a few cleaning supplies:
- A resealable plastic bag like a Ziploc bag
- At least 70% isopropyl alcohol (90% is much better!)
- Coarse salt
- A pipe cleaner
Now, follow these steps to clean your one-hitter pipe:
1. Place the pipe in a resealable plastic bag.
2. Add a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and salt to the bag.
3. Swish the pipe around to loosen resin chunks. The salt will help break up the resin chunks. Repeat this step as many times as needed to clean your one-hitter.
4. Use a pipe cleaner for stubborn spots.
5. Then rinse the pipe and let it air dry.
Answering FAQs About One Hitters
One-hitters are simple to use, but you might still have a few questions—like what makes them so great or how to get the most out of them. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with answers to some of the most common questions about these handy little pipes. You can always visit your local LivWell dispensary to chat with a budtender for personalized advice:
Can you reuse a one-hitter pipe?
Yes, you can reuse your one-hitters—as long as you clean them regularly.
Why is it called a one hitter?
A one-hitter cannabis pipe is called a one-hitter because it’s typically packed with just enough flower for a single hit, though you may get a few more hits depending on the size of the device.
Do you need a grinder for a one hitter?
Yes, you need to use a grinder for a one-hitter pipe. Grinding the flower ensures even burning, better airflow, and a more enjoyable smoking experience!
Buying & Using One-Hitter Pipes
A one-hitter pipe is a great tool for discreet and portable cannabis consumption. Whether you’re a newbie or just want a quick microdosing option, these pipes are easy to use and maintain. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to explore the best options, and chat with a budtender to find the perfect fit.
Sources:
1. “Pipe,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/pipe
2. “The Best One-Hitters for Getting High on the Low,” GQ, April 9, 2024, https://www.gq.com/story/best-one-hitters
3. “Chullims explained: How to use a chillum,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/what-is-a-chillum
4. “What is a steamroller pipe?” CannaConnection, August 14, 2020, https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/19149-what-is-a-steamroller-pipe
5. “11 Best Dugout Pipes in the World Right Now!” Weed Republic, December 27, 2020, https://weedrepublic.com/blogs/reviews/11-best-dugout-pipes-in-the-world-right-now
6. “Dugout,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/dugout
7. “What is a one-hitter cannabis pipe?” Leafly, August 23, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/smoke/one-hitter-pipes
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
If you want to take your cannabis experience to the next level, moon rocks might be what you’re looking for. These ultra-potent nuggets of cannabis are known for their intense effects, making them popular among cannabis connoisseurs.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about moon rocks—from what they are to how to smoke them—and even how to make them at home.
What are Moon Rocks?
Moon rocks are essentially cannabis flower that have been dipped in hash oil (a type of marijuana concentrate) and then rolled in kief. This process creates a super-concentrated nugget containing as much as 50% THC per 1 gram of moon rock.1
Traditionally, the GSC strain (Girl Scout Cookies) was used to make moon rocks because of its potency and flavor, but any strain of cannabis can be used to create a “moon rock strain” that suits your taste and desired effects. The result is a flavorful, powerful product that’s not suitable for cannabis beginners—so make sure you’re prepared for an intense high. You can also find infused pre-rolls designed to deliver a moon rock-like experience. These pre-rolls are packed with cannabis concentrate and dusted with kief, offering the intense effects of moon rocks minus the mess and hassle of preparation.
Because of the multiple layers of cannabis concentrates involved, moon rocks tend to be more expensive at a dispensary. However, you can make your own at home with the right ingredients and tools.2
How to Smoke Moon Rocks
Smoking moon rocks is an experience, but it can also be a little tricky. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your moon rock session3:
1. Break up the moon rock: Moon rocks are sticky, so wear gloves and use scissors or a knife to break them into smaller pieces. Don’t use a grinder, as it will just get clogged.
2. Use glassware: Smoking moon rocks through a glass pipe or bong is the easiest and cleanest method. Rolling them into a joint will be messy, and they don’t stay lit as easily.
3. Layer with flower: Place a small amount of flower at the bottom of your bowl or pipe, and then add the moon rock on top. This will help with airflow and make the hit smoother.
4. Use a hemp wick: Moon rocks can be difficult to keep lit, so using a hemp wick rather than a traditional lighter might help prolong the burn and give you a better hit.
How to Make Moon Rocks
You can make moon rocks at home if you don’t want to spend the extra cash at your local dispensary. Here’s how:
Step 1: Gather Your Tools & Ingredients
To make moon rocks, you’ll need three main ingredients:
- Cannabis flower: Choose an entire nug, avoiding smaller pieces like popcorn buds or shake.
- Sticky concentrate: Use a sticky cannabis concentrate like hash oil or butane hash oil.
- Kief: This is the powdery substance collected from grinding cannabis, or you can buy it from a dispensary. You can also use powdered hash.
Step 2: Add Concentrate
Using a dropper, carefully coat your cannabis nug with hash oil or another sticky concentrate. You can add multiple layers of concentrate, but make sure to let each coat dry before applying the next one to avoid making a mess.
Step 3: Roll in Kief
Once your nug is coated in concentrate, use tongs to roll it in kief, ensuring the entire bud is covered. This is what gives moon rocks their signature look and potency.
Step 4: Dry
Let your moon rock dry in a cool, dark spot. This step ensures that the concentrate and kief properly adhere to the flower, making it easier to handle and smoke.
Step 5: Store
If you’re not planning to smoke your moon rock immediately, store it in an airtight container in a dark, cool place to preserve its potency and flavor.
FAQs About Moon Rocks
If you’re new to moon rocks or just curious about how they work, you’re not alone. Many cannabis enthusiasts have questions about this potent creation, from what exactly goes into a moon rock to the best way to smoke it. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions, but if you’re still wondering about anything, don’t hesitate to ask your local LivWell budtender for more advice!
What is in moon rocks?
Moon rocks are made of cannabis flower, concentrate, and kief. The combination of these three components creates a potent nugget that can contain up to 50% THC.
Are moon rocks the same as caviar?
Moon rocks and caviar are different. Caviar is cannabis flower dipped in concentrate, while moon rocks are dipped in concentrate and rolled in kief, making them even more potent.
Can I use moon rocks in cannabutter?
It’s not recommended to use moon rocks in cannabis butter. Moon rocks are sticky and coated in marijuana concentrates, which makes them difficult to work with if you want to make cannabutter. Stick with flower or concentrates for a smoother cooking process and to avoid a huge mess.
How strong are moon rocks?
Moon rocks are extremely strong, with THC levels reaching up to 50%. This makes them a good option for cannabis enthusiasts but potentially overwhelming for beginners.
How can I keep my moon rocks lit?
Use a hemp wick instead of a lighter. Moon rocks are hard to keep lit because of the sticky concentrate, and a hemp wick can help with a steady burn.
Can I eat moon rocks?
It’s not recommended to eat moon rocks. The THC in moon rocks hasn’t gone through decarboxylation, which is necessary for cannabis to produce psychoactive effects when consumed. So while you can eat moon rocks, it won’t cause any intoxicating effects.
Can I roll moon rocks into a joint?
Moon rocks are too sticky and dense to be rolled into a joint. For the best experience, use them in a bong or pipe.
Purchasing Marijuana Moon Rocks
If you’re interested in trying moon rocks but don’t want to make them yourself, you can buy them at most licensed dispensaries. Keep in mind that moon rocks can be pricey because of their potency, but they’re worth it if you’re looking for a powerful cannabis experience. Stop by a LivWell dispensary and chat with a budtender to find the best moon rocks for your next session.
Sources:
1. “What are moon rocks and how do you smoke them?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/smoke/moon-rocks
2. “What are marijuana moon rocks?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/marijuana-moon-rocks
3. “What are moon rocks?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/moon-rocks
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
If you prefer smooth, flavorful hits but want something a bit more portable than a traditional bong, a bubbler bong might be your new best friend. Bubblers combine the best of both worlds: the compactness of a pipe and the water filtration of a bong. Easy to use and perfect for on-the-go sessions, they’re a great choice for anyone who wants a convenient way to enjoy flower with a bit of extra smoothness. Here’s everything you need to know about these unique pieces, from what is a bubbler to how to use one.
What is a Bubbler?
A bubbler is a hybrid device—a cross between a traditional bong and a glass pipe. Made from glass and equipped with a percolation system, bubblers allow the smoke to pass through water, cooling it for a smoother hit. It’s typically crafted as one solid glass piece, so a bubbler includes all the essentials in one: the bowl, stem, water chamber, and mouthpiece. Most designs also feature a carb hole, giving you control over airflow so you can keep the ember going without constant relighting. Sometimes called bubbler pipes, they’re known for being highly portable and offering a unique smoking experience.1
Bubbler vs Bong: What’s the Difference
While a bubbler vs bong might seem similar, they have a few key differences:2
- Size: Bongs are generally larger and can have multiple detachable parts, while bubblers are more compact and usually made of a single piece of glass.
- Ease of Cleaning: Bubblers can be a bit trickier to clean because of their all-in-one design, whereas bongs often have removable parts that make cleaning simpler.
- Customization: Bongs offer more customization options with accessories, while bubblers tend to be more straightforward and less modifiable.
Ultimately, if you want an easy-to-maintain device, a bong might be better, but a bubbler’s simpler construction means fewer parts to worry about, which can be a win.
How a Bubbler Works
A glass bubbler has several main components: a bowl, stem, water chamber, and mouthpiece. It may also have a carb hole. The design allows the smoke to travel down through the water, which cools it before it reaches your throat and lungs. It may also have several water chambers (also called percolators), which cools and filtrates the smoke even more compared to having only a single percolator.3 Think of it like a mini bong in a single piece!
How to Use a Bubbler
Using a bubbler is straightforward, but follow these few steps on how to use a bubbler to get the best experience.
Step 1: Fill with Water
Start by filling the bubbler with water until it covers the downstem. You want enough to create bubbles but not so much that it splashes up when you take a hit.4
Step 2: Place Flower in the Bowl
Add your favorite cannabis flower to the bowl. With bubblers, you’ll use a bit less flower than in a regular bong but more than in a one-hitter. Remember to not pack the flower too tightly since you definitely want to leave some room for airflow. A smaller bowl also means you can try different strains or switch things up without needing a large amount.
Step 3: Ignite the Flower
Similar to using a bong or pipe, it’s now time to light up your flower.
Step 4: Cover Carb Hole & Inhale
Put your thumb over the carb hole to control airflow as you inhale.
Step 5: Release the Carb Hole
Lift your thumb off the carb to clear the chamber, giving you a smooth and full hit.
How to Clean a Bubbler
Regular cleaning is important to help maintain the flavor and functionality of your bubbler. Even though you can’t scrub the inside of the bubbler, you can keep it clean.5 Here is a simple method to follow:
- Fill the bubbler with 99% isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt. This mixture acts as a cleaning solution, breaking down any residue.
- Let it soak. Leave it for about an hour, and swish the salt around occasionally to dislodge buildup.
- Rinse the bubbler thoroughly. Once cleaned, rinse the bubbler with water and let it air dry before using it again.
Bubbler FAQs
Using a bubbler can be a fantastic way to enjoy a smooth, flavorful hit, but it’s natural to have questions about how to get the best experience. From cleaning tips to the basics of how much water to use, here are answers to some frequently asked questions that can help you make the most of your bubbler and keep it in top condition. If you want to know more, remember that your favorite budtender at your local LivWell dispensary is there to give you personalized recommendations and advice.
How often should I clean my bubbler?
Ideally, you’d want to clean your bubbler after each session to keep it in top shape and ensure the best taste and smoking experience.
Can I put concentrates in my bubbler?
It’s best not to put cannabis concentrates in your bubbler pipe. Bubblers are designed for cannabis flower, and using concentrates could lead to a sticky buildup that’s hard to clean, especially since bubblers can’t be disassembled.
What does a bubbler do to smoke?
A bubbler cools the smoke by pulling it through water, just like a bong, giving you a smoother experience. It’s much easier on your lungs and throat than smoking cannabis with a pipe.
How much water do you put in a bubbler?
You should add just enough water to cover the downstem and create bubbles. Adding too much can cause water to splash back while you’re taking a hit.
Can you put a joint in a bubbler?
No, bubblers are designed to be packed with cannabis flower in the bowl, similar to a bong or pipe.
Buying & Using Bubblers
Whether you’re new to bubblers or just looking for a smoother, more portable option, a bubbler bong can elevate your smoking experience with its unique blend of convenience and filtration. For more tips on choosing or using a bubbler, stop by your nearest LivWell dispensary and chat with your favorite budtender—they’ll be happy to help you find the perfect fit.
Sources:
1. “What is a bubbler and how do you use one?” CannaConnection, March 18, 2022, https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/14948-what-is-bubbler-how-use-one
2. “What Is A Bubbler Pipe & How To Use It?” Herb, October 26, 2023, https://herb.co/learn/how-to-use-a-bubbler
3. “What’s a Bubbler Pipe and Why Would You Use One?” Leafbuyer, January 23, 2019, https://www.leafbuyer.com/blog/bubbler-pipe/
4. “Bubbler,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/bubbler
5. “Bubbler,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/bubbler
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
