In this guide
CBD spray and CBD cream are both topicals: you apply them to the skin where you want them, instead of taking them by mouth. The difference is in how they go on, how much CBD they carry and where each one fits in your day. This guide compares the two, so you can pick the right one, or know when it makes sense to keep both.
The Short Answer
- Choose a CBD cream if you want the most CBD per application and like to massage a product into sore muscles and joints.
- Choose a CBD spray if you want fast, hands-free application, no residue, and something easy to carry.
- Keep both if you want a stronger cream at home and a spray in your golf bag, gym bag or desk drawer.
CBD Spray vs. CBD Cream at a Glance
| CBD Spray | CBD Cream | |
|---|---|---|
| How it goes on | Spray onto the skin, no rubbing needed | Massage into the skin |
| Feel | Fast-drying, light, cooling | Smooth, non-greasy, cooling |
| CBD per container (Pin High CBD) | 750 mg | 2000 mg or 5000 mg |
| Best for | On the go, hard-to-reach areas like the back | Targeted use on knees, elbows, shoulders and hands |
| Mess | None on your hands | Wash your hands after use |
| Price (Pin High CBD) | $69 | $60 (2000 mg) or $99 (5000 mg) |
When a CBD Cream Makes More Sense
Creams hold far more CBD per container than most sprays. Our 5000 mg CBD Muscle & Joint Cream carries about 41 mg of CBD per ml, and the 2000 mg pump about 40 mg per ml. Both add CBG and CBC at 10% of the CBD level, plus menthol, arnica and aloe vera.
Massaging a cream in also lets you work it into a specific spot, like the outside of the elbow after a long range session or the knees after a day of pickleball. If you want pain relief after activity and you are home or in the locker room, a cream is usually the better pick.
When a CBD Spray Makes More Sense
A spray wins on convenience. Our CBD Aerosol Spray dries quickly and leaves nothing on your hands, so you can apply it between holes, before a match or at your desk and get straight back to it. It is also the easiest way to reach the middle of your back or the back of your shoulders without help.
The trade-off is strength: at 750 mg per 3 oz can, the spray carries less total CBD than our creams.
What Should You Look For in Either One?
- THC content: look for products made with CBD isolate if you want zero THC. All Pin High CBD products are THC-free.
- Milligrams on the label: check the total CBD per container, not just the size of the jar or can.
- Lab reports: a reputable brand publishes a Certificate of Analysis for every product. Ours are linked on each product page.
- Where it is made: our products are made in the USA.
How to Use CBD Topicals
Apply to clean, dry, intact skin. Keep topicals away from your eyes, mouth and broken skin. Wash your hands after using a cream. Shake a spray before each use and spray from a short distance. Always follow the directions on the label. If you are pregnant, nursing or take medication, talk with your doctor first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CBD spray as strong as CBD cream?
Not usually per container. Our spray has 750 mg of CBD, while our creams have 2000 mg or 5000 mg. The spray is built for convenience rather than maximum strength.
Can I use a CBD spray and a CBD cream together?
You can use a cream at home and a spray on the go. Follow the directions on each label.
Do CBD topicals contain THC?
Some do. Full-spectrum products can contain small amounts of THC. Pin High CBD uses isolates, so our topicals are made without THC.
Which is better for golfers?
A common setup is the spray on the course and a cream after the round. See our guide to CBD for golfers.
The Bottom Line
If you want strength, pick a cream. If you want speed and convenience, pick a spray. If you want both, keep a cream at home and a spray in your bag. Compare every option on our shop page.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For adult use only.
THC-free CBD, made in the USA
Ships within 2 days · Free shipping over $125 · Lab tested
We make THC-free CBD creams, spray and tinctures with CBD isolate in the USA, with a lab report for every product. Our guides cover how to fit CBD and CBN into everyday, active and evening routines.
