What are Transdermal THC Patches & How Do They Work?
Transdermal THC patches are becoming more popular as cannabis enthusiasts look for new ways to consume their cannabis. For those who prefer the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it methods, the transdermal cannabis patch could be the perfect answer. In this guide, we’ll share everything we know about these unique patches, including:
- What is a THC Patch?
- How Do THC Patches Work?
- How Do You Use Transdermal THC Patches?
- Do THC Patches Have Psychoactive Effects?
- THC Patches vs THC Topicals
- FAQs About THC Patches
What is a THC Patch?
The THC patch, also called a transdermal cannabis patch, is an innovative way to consume cannabis. You simply apply a patch to an area on your body and allow the cannabinoid, THC, to seep through the skin and into the bloodstream. Many cannabis enthusiasts enjoy THC patches because they can last all day or all night thanks to the slow release of the active cannabinoid or cannabinoids in the patch. It can also be popular among cannabis consumers who prefer a more discrete way to consume their cannabis.1
How Do THC Patches Work?
THC patches both work the same way. The active cannabinoid in the patch is combined with a permeation enhancer and carrier. These additives are key to a cannabinoid patch because our skin is so effective at keeping out toxins, bacteria, environmental contaminants and more. In order to pass through the skin, the cannabinoid is paired with the permeation enhancer—to help it sink through the skin—and a carrier—to carry the cannabinoid into the bloodstream.1
How to Use a THC Patch
Transdermal patches are popular ways of administering treatments, including birth control, pain relief, and more.2 Transdermal THC patches apply the same mechanics.3
Step 1: Select Your Placement Area
When deciding where you want to place your THC patch, make sure to choose an area with good blood circulation and minimal hair.3
Step 2: Wash
Wash your skin with warm water and clear, scentless soap. This will help the patch stick better.2
Step 3: Prepare the Patch
Peel the wax paper from the back of the patch, exposing the adhesive side, similar to how you would open a bandage.
Step 3: Attach
Place the patch on your clean skin. Press firmly with the palm of your hand, and make sure all sides are sticking to your skin.
Do THC Patches Have Psychoactive Effects?
Kind of. If you’re looking to experience psychoactive effects similar to smoking or vaping, THC patches may disappoint you. This is because, despite the permeation enhancers, transdermal THC still has a tough road from patch to bloodstream. Ultimately, like most cannabis products, the effects of the transdermal THC patch depend largely on you and your endocannabinoid system, tolerance levels, skin thickness—you get the point. If you’re unsure how a THC patch would affect you, or it’s your first time trying a THC patch, make sure you start low and go slow.
THC Patches vs THC Topicals
There is one key difference between a THC transdermal patch and a THC topical: absorption.4 THC topicals are designed to have a localized effect on the skin and the general area the cannabis topical is applied. THC patches are designed to help cannabinoids transfer through the skin and into the bloodstream. In short, THC patches have cannabinoids that are meant to be absorbed into your circulatory system, while THC topicals are not.
FAQs About THC Patches
THC patches are relatively new products that not many cannabis enthusiasts know about. Because of this, we’re always answering questions about them like these:
What is the best place to put a transdermal THC patch?
The best place to put a transdermal THC patch is in an area with thinner skin and more veins, such as the wrist, back of the knee, or top of your foot. Of course, you can try other areas and decide if the effects you feel warrant new placement.
Do THC patches work?
THC patches do work in that they facilitate the transdermal transfer of THC into your bloodstream. However, your ability to feel the desired effects depends on your body.
How long do THC patches take to work?
Once you apply the THC patch, it typically takes up to an hour for the effects to be felt.5 From there, depending on the potency of the patch, they can last up to 12 hours.3 Always follow the instructions that come with your THC patch to know how long to keep the patch on.
Purchasing Cannabis Patches
Ready to give a cannabis patch a try? Visit your local dispensary to see if they carry THC patches. Your budtender can show you the products they have available and help you make the right decision for you.
Sources:
1. “What are THC, CBD, and other cannabis-derived transdermal patches?,” Leafly, September 6, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/strains-products/what-are-marijuana-transdermal-patches
2. “How to Apply a Transdermal Patch,” Healthline, January, 24, 2024, https://www.healthline.com/health/general-use/how-to-use-transdermal-patch
3. “Do THC transdermal patches really work?,” The Cannigma, June 20, 2025, https://cannigma.com/delivery/thc-transdermal-patches/
4. “Transdermal,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/transdermal
5. “How to dose cannabis transdermal patches,” Leafwell, October 3, 2025, https://leafwell.com/blog/how-to-dose-transdermal-patches
Recreational cannabis is not available in all states. Cannabis is for medical use only and may only be used by certified patients in Pennsylvania. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and certified patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.