Provided herein are compositions for delivering one or more cannabinoids to the skin of a subject and methods of using the compositions to deliver the one or more cannabinoids to the skin of a subject. The compositions contain a carrier that facilitates the delivery and permeation of cannabinoids to and through the skin. The carriers of the compositions contain squalane or mixtures of squalane and hemisqualane. The compositions described herein may serve as the base for the preparation of various cosmetics or various pharmaceuticals. The cosmetics or pharmaceuticals may be used to reduce inflammation, control pain, or prevent aging of the skin of a subject.