Massage therapists will all have their preferred massage oil or lotion. These products lubricate the skin and lessen friction during the massage. If you have topical allergies or sensitivities or have specific therapeutic goals, it’s best to know a bit more about these products to help your massage therapist in choosing an oil or lotion that will best suit you and your needs.
CBD Massage Oil
CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-eliminating properties. CBD massage oil can be used to enhance your massage and loosen tight muscles, relieve joint pain, and ease muscle fatigue.
Aromatherapy Oils
Essential oils can be added to massage oils to enhance your massage and aid in stress relief. Your massage therapist will ask if you have any allergies or sensitivities prior to adding essential oils to your massage. Certain essential oils also have therapeutic benefits.
Most Popular Oils
Massage therapists may create their own oil blends. The most popular oils to use for massage are:
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Fractionated coconut oil is a non-comedogenic oil that won’t clog pores. This oil does not solidify at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for massage. Coconut oil is an excellent carrier for essential oil blends, as it has a very subtle scent and is colorless. This oil absorbs readily into the skin and does not leave a greasy film.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is the oil that is closest to the pH and sebum makeup of human skin. This means it absorbs incredibly well and leaves skin moisturized without leaving a film on the surface.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil offers a pleasant and soft aroma with a slightly greasy texture that allows hands to glide effortlessly across the skin. It absorbs relatively easily with minimal residue.
Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot kernel oil has a similar texture to sweet almond oil. This oil is rich in vitamin E and is a great alternative for clients with nut allergies.
Grape Seed Oil
Grape seed oil has a wonderful, light texture and absorbs well, though this oil is notorious for staining sheets. If you receive a massage in your own home and have your own table and sheets, you may not mind the staining, but most massage therapists will not want to use this on their own sheets. This oil is rich in linoleic acid, vitamin E, and vitamin C, and an antioxidant called polyphenols.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is deeply nourishing to the skin. Argan can protect the skin from sun damage and contains antibacterial and antifungal properties, as well as other wound-healing properties due to the high vitamin E content. Argan is a more expensive oil and is typically used in smaller quantities, and added to carrier oils to enhance the quality. Those with nut allergies may experience an allergic reaction when using argan oil.
Your massage therapist may be open to crafting a custom massage oil for your personal use. This means you can select the essential oils and carrier oils used on your body, further personalizing your experience.