Massage Oils - Benefits and Uses

Massage oils are specially formulated oils that are used during massage therapy to lubricate the skin and reduce friction. They often contain essential oils and carrier oils for added benefits.

Massage Oils FAQ

Image credit: queenofoil.com

What are massage oils used for?

The main purpose of massage oils is to lubricate the skin to reduce friction while performing a massage. This helps give a smooth glide and easy workability to the skin surface. Some of the secondary benefits include nourishing the skin and acting as a "base", or "carrier" oil for aromatherapy essential oils. Learn about the best oils.

What is an essential oil massage?

An essential oil massage or aromatherapy massage basically combines 'aroma,' using healing scents and natural fragrance, with 'therapy,' the actual therapeutic massage technique. In an aromatherapy massage, essential oils are added to the massage oil and applied topically, and/or diffused in the air.

What makes a good massage oil?

A good massage oil allows your hands to glide over the skin, without becoming sticky or drying out. Your massage oil should have a fragrance you like (or be scent-free if you prefer), be non-irritating to the skin and not stain clothes or bed linen. You can easily make your own aromatherapy massage oil blend.

What are massage oils?

Massage oils are natural plant-based oils, such as olive and coconut, that are used to lubricate skin during massage. They provide benefits such as: Ease of gliding: Massage oil helps your hands to glide over the skin, making it easier to perform massage techniques.

What are the different types of massage oil?

Different types of massage oil are available, including natural oils like almond oil, grapeseed oil, and coconut oil, as well as mineral oil, which is a petroleum-based oil. Natural oils are best for sensitive skin and provide nourishment, while mineral oil is often used for deep tissue massage.

What are commercial massage oils?

Commercial massage oils are a combination of carrier oils and essential oils. Carrier oils are often plant-based, made from seeds and nuts. Some of the most common include sweet almond, cold-pressed coconut, grapeseed, jojoba, and olive oil. Essential oils are steam distilled or extracted from aromatic leaves, flowers, and other parts of plants.