When it comes to sun protection, travelers are increasingly drawn to marijuana-infused SPF products that blend skincare and wellness in one bottle. These sunscreens are often formulated with cannabinoids like CBD or THC, known for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, as appealing as they may be, carrying them across state lines presents a complex legal challenge.
At the federal level, marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that any product containing THC—no matter how small the amount—technically falls under federal restriction. Even if a marijuana SPF is legal in one state, transporting it into another, or through federally regulated spaces such as airports, may result in legal consequences.
Some travelers assume that marijuana topicals, including sunscreens, are exempt from these laws because they are applied externally rather than consumed. Unfortunately, that assumption is incorrect. A topical product containing THC above the federally permitted 0.3% threshold is still considered marijuana under the law. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) makes it clear that cannabis-infused products containing more than 0.3% THC remain illegal under federal law, regardless of their form.
Key Considerations for Travelers
1. Check the product’s THC content.
Travelers should confirm whether the sunscreen is derived from hemp or marijuana. Hemp-based products with less than 0.3% THC are generally compliant with federal law, while marijuana-based SPF products are not. Always read the label or check for a certificate of analysis from a verified lab.
2. Review state laws before traveling.
Even if cannabis is legal in both the departure and destination states, carrying a marijuana product across state lines violates federal interstate commerce laws. States may also have varying regulations on topical or cosmetic cannabis formulations.
3. Avoid bringing marijuana SPF on flights.
Airports and airplanes are federally regulated, meaning travelers risk confiscation, fines, or worse if caught with noncompliant cannabis products. Even medical marijuana patients should exercise caution, as federal law supersedes state allowances once inside an airport or on a plane.
4. Keep documentation and original packaging.
If traveling with hemp-derived SPF, it’s best to keep it in its original packaging and include any available lab reports showing compliance with federal standards. While this doesn’t guarantee clearance, it provides proof that the product meets legal requirements.
5. Purchase cannabis SPF products at your destination.
A safer approach is to buy these products once you arrive at your destination, rather than bringing them from another state. Many dispensaries and skincare retailers offer compliant, locally produced marijuana or hemp SPF products that meet state regulations.
6. Don’t assume “topical” means “legal.”
Even if a sunscreen is used externally, it can still be treated as an illegal substance if it exceeds THC limits. Travelers should be cautious about what’s in their skincare products and how they’re classified under federal law.
Final Thought
Travelers looking to protect their skin while embracing the wellness benefits of cannabis should stay informed and cautious. The simplest solution is to stick with federally compliant hemp SPF or purchase local cannabis-infused sunscreens once they’ve reached their destination. This ensures the only thing travelers bring home from their trip is a sun-kissed glow—not legal trouble.