When it comes to massage, the type of oil used plays a crucial role in enhancing the experience and providing various benefits.  Selecting the perfect body oil for massage from the wide range of options can be a significant and deeply personal choice. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the factors to consider when selecting an oil for massage and delve into the benefits of popular carrier oils and essential oils. Whether you're treating your clients to a relaxing massage or relief from a specific condition, this guide will help you make an informed choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Massage Oil

Selecting the best oil for massage is a highly personal experience. Different oils have different textures and absorption rates, so it's essential to consider your preferences and the specific purpose of the massage. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

1. Texture

Massage oils offer a range of textures, encompassing lightweight options and thicker, more viscous varieties. Lightweight oils, such as jojoba oil and sweet almond oil, move easily across the skin and are ideal for general relaxation massages. Thicker oils, like avocado and coconut oil, offer more grip and are suitable for deep tissue massages requiring more pressure.

2. Absorption Rate

Consider how quickly you want the oil to absorb into your skin. Some people enjoy the feeling of oil on their skin, allowing it to sink in slowly for deep nourishment and hydration. If your client prefers a lighter feel or doesn't like the sensation of oil on the skin, opt for oils that absorb quickly, such as grapeseed oil or coconut oil.

3. Skin Sensitivity

If your client has sensitive skin or allergies, opt for vegan or organic massage oils with fewer chemicals and potential irritants. Carrier oils like sweet almond oil and jojoba oil are generally well-tolerated by most skin types. However, doing a patch test before using any new oil is always a good idea to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction.

4. Purpose of the Massage

Consider the specific purpose of the massage and choose an oil that complements it. For relaxation and general wellness, lavender essential oil is known for its calming properties. If you're massaging for pain relief or anti-inflammatory benefits, consider using oils like eucalyptus or peppermint. Understanding the purpose of the massage will help you select the most suitable oil.

Carrier Oil for Massage

Carrier oils form the base of any massage oil blend and make up the majority of the mixture. These oils provide nourishment, glide, and hydration to the skin.  As you read through this list, don't get hungry; we are not cooking.  Here is a list most popular carrier oils and their benefits:

Canola, Sunflower, and Safflower Oils

Some massage oil mixes will contain one or more of these flower oils. Look on the label for non-GMO, organic, cold-pressed, or expeller-pressed when referring to these oils.  All are lightweight and refreshing for the skin, leaving it feeling soft and healthy.  And yes, these oils are healthy as they are full of vitamin E and other antioxidants.  Canola, sunflower, and safflower oils are less expensive but still make a great carrier oil for massage.

Sesame Seed Oil

Sesame oil is another tasty oil that is used in massage because it penetrates deep into the skin, reaching deep layers to nourish it.  Ayurveda medicine features sesame for its many health benefits, like vitamin E, which, as an antioxidant, protects the skin from toxins, pollution, and UV.  Sesame oil has the unique characteristic of warming the skin - a real benefit in the cooler days.  It can also be used in facial massage and pedicure treatments.

Olive Oil

Cold-pressed olive oil is gentle and lightweight, making it a popular choice for massage. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which improve skin elasticity and promote a healthy glow. Olive oil is commonly used for baby massages as it nourishes and helps maintain the skin's moisture.

Avocado Oil

Avocado Oil is known for its nourishing properties and often relieves pain and inflammation. It contains trace nutrients that can help minimize pain and swelling. With its slightly thicker consistency, avocado oil provides deep nourishment and is commonly used as a carrier oil for sports massage blends.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil is a versatile and popular carrier oil suitable for all skin types. It is lightweight, absorbs quickly, and moisturizes the skin without clogging pores. Coconut oil has a pleasant scent and is known for its potential to lighten and fade dark patches on the skin. 

Sweet Almond Oil - Our FAVORITE

Sweet Almond Oil is a lightweight oil that contains vitamins A and E, making it excellent for nourishing the skin. It is commonly used to improve the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and dull skin. This oil is mildly antifungal and antibacterial, making it suitable for people with body acne or fungal infections.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba Oil closely resembles the skin's natural oils, making it an excellent choice for massages. It is super lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it suitable for all skin types. Jojoba oil can help detoxify congested skin and is often used for people with body acne. It blends well with other carrier oils, making it a versatile option for massage blends.

Hemp Oil

Hemp oil has gained popularity for its potential benefits in treating various skin conditions, including dryness and eczema. It is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, making it an excellent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. Hemp oil absorbs slowly into the skin, so a little goes a long way, making it great for anti-aging and skin irritation.

Rosehip Oil

Rose Hip Oil is packed with vitamins A and C and essential fatty acids. It is known for its rejuvenating properties and ability to protect the skin against signs of aging. This lightweight oil absorbs quickly and is suitable for body and face massages.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is another favorite of massage therapists who like to use aromatherapy in their practice.  It has nearly no smell, allowing the true scents of added essential oils to come through.  Grapeseed oil has a light texture, so it is not too greasy but promotes an easy glide without friction.  It is considered a therapeutic oil because of the high levels of vitamin E it contains, which is an anti-inflammatory antioxidant.

Pick one or more of the above to create your favorite mix of oil for massage.  But first, let's explore essential oils that will increase the health benefits of massage and promote relaxation through wonderful scents.

Popular Essential Oil for Massage

Once you have chosen a carrier oil base, you can enhance your massage oil blend with essential oils. Essential oils are highly concentrated, scented natural oils that offer specific health and well-being benefits. Here are some popular essential oils and their properties:

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil is widely known for its relaxing and calming effects. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with pain and swelling. The soothing fragrance of lavender creates a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for a calming massage and holistic treatment.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea Tree Essential Oil is valued for its strong antibacterial properties, making it ideal for people with congested and blemish-prone skin. It can help clear the skin and treat troubled areas. Tea tree oil has a fresh, exhilarating scent and is often used in more invigorating massages.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint Essential Oil is refreshing and invigorating. It blends well with other oils, leaving the skin feeling clean and nourished. It is commonly used for relieving cramps and muscle tension. However, peppermint oil is not recommended for relaxing massages as it has stimulating properties.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit Essential Oil is perfect for detoxifying and drainage massages. It has detoxifying and clarifying properties, helps regulate blood pressure, and reduces stress. This uplifting and energizing oil is often used in sports massages. However, it should be used sparingly as it can potentially cause photosensitivity.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus Oil revitalizes and cools, making it excellent for post-workout massages. It has pain-relieving properties and is ideal for deep-tissue massages. The bright scent of eucalyptus awakens the senses and provides relief to tired muscles.

Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium Essential Oil has a light, floral scent known for its balancing properties. It stimulates the body, improves the nervous system, boosts circulation, and tightens muscles. Geranium oil can be used in almost any massage oil blend, as it is both relaxing and rejuvenating.

German Chamomile Essential Oil

German Chamomile Essential Oil is commonly used to alleviate muscle and joint pain. It is effective due to its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for those with arthritis. It is especially suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or nervous systems.

Sandalwood Essential Oil

Sandalwood Essential Oil is prized for its seductive aroma and skin benefits. It nourishes the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and glowing. Sandalwood's deep, woody fragrance is highly relaxing and perfect for calming massages. It can also help with muscle soreness and may even help reduce blood pressure.

What Else Can You Add to Your Oil for Massage?

Arnica Extract

Arnica Extract is beneficial for wound healing, acting as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent while also providing pain relief. It has the ability to promote circulation, accelerating the skin's healing process and alleviating pain associated with inflammation.

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract is a great source of antioxidants and has been shown to improve skin health.  It also improves skin elasticity and lowers inflammation.

Willow Bark Extract

Willow Bark contains salicin, which is a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), thus providing pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E comprises a collection of fat-soluble vitamins that possess antioxidant properties. Vitamin E oil can be beneficial for moisturizing the skin, promoting wound healing, preventing cancer, managing eczema and psoriasis, and reducing the appearance of scars.

Popular Pre-Mixed Massage Oils

Pre-mixed oil for massage will contain one or several carrier oils and are often mixed with essential oils to increase the health benefits and add a delicious scent.  Now that you know what factors to consider when selecting a massage oil, let us share our top three choices and what makes them so great.

Best Overall Oil for Massage

Coming from the top manufacturer of massage tables, Earthlite, is 100% Pure Organic Professional Massage Oil.  It is a natural, plant-based blend of the finest oils, including sustainably sourced, premium expeller-pressed Sunflower and Safflower oils enriched with Vitamin E. It is 100% pure, certified organic, and chemical-free.  We like this as a multi-purpose massage oil with extended glide and workability with just the right absorption rate, making it perfect for various massage techniques.  Save, and buy it by the gallon!

Best for Oil for Sore Muscles and Pain Relief

Seven Minerals ARNICA Massage Oil is adored by massage therapists for its superb glide and absorption rate.  It is a blend of Almond, Jojoba, Arnica, and Vitamin E oils and is cruelty-free, hexane-free, vegan, and 100% pure.  Arnica is a beautiful yellow flower that is part of the sunflower family and is known for its powerful natural pain relief.  Interestingly, this premium oil for massage is not hydrogenated or chemically treated, making for a luscious massage with a relaxing scent.

"My clients really like this product. I love the glide that I get from using the arnica oil." - Norma D.

"This product is great and doesn’t leave me feeling oily or greasy and it hasn’t stained my sheets yet!" - Reginald  H.

Best Variety of Oil for Massage

From Master Massage (another top massage table manufacturer) comes the SpaMaster Essential Massage Oil line. The variety pack of four eight-ounce bottles includes Unscented, Soothing, Relaxing, and Exotic. They include various carrier and essential oils to match the scent to your clients’ needs. Try this sampler pack to discover your favorite scent.

Now that we have shared our favorite pre-mixed massage oils let's talk about the components of massage oil and learn how to mix up your perfect blend to match your massage style and clients' needs.

Finding Your Perfect Massage Oil

The best oil blend depends on your specific needs and preferences. A well-formulated organic or vegan massage oil should consist of up to 98% carrier oils and a maximum of 2% essential oils. Some blends may contain multiple carrier oils to create a customized and effective massage oil.

In conclusion, which is the best oil for massage?  When selecting a massage oil, consider texture, absorption rate, and specific needs. Popular carrier oils like almond seed oil, jojoba seed oil, and coconut oil offer unique benefits. They can be combined with essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, and peppermint to enhance the therapeutic effects of your massage. Experiment with different oils to find the perfect blend that suits your preferences and desired outcomes.

So, go ahead, indulge in the benefits of body massage oils, and unlock the full potential of your wellness journey. If you have questions about your choice of massage oil, contact us during business hours via online chat or phone at (888) 515-0444; you can also email us 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at hello@massagetablesnow.com. We will research your query and respond via email the same day or within one business day.  Please note that as an Amazon Associate, Massage Tables Now earns from qualifying purchases made on Amazon.com.

Now through 12/31/24 save 10% on all Massage Tables Now massage oils and essential oils with coupon code GOLDENTOUCH!

FAQ

What oils are used for massage?

Massage therapy often incorporates the use of massage oils to enhance the overall experience and benefits of the treatment. Various oils are commonly used for massage, each with its unique properties and benefits. One popular option is lavender relaxation massage oil, a natural blend of spa-quality oils known for its calming and soothing effects. This oil is often used in aromatherapy and can help promote relaxation and stress relief during a massage. Other common massage oils include coconut oil, grapeseed oil, and jojoba oil, which are known for their moisturizing and nourishing properties. These oils are often used to provide a smooth glide during the massage and leave the skin feeling soft and hydrated. Additionally, professional-grade massage therapy oils are available that are scented or unscented, depending on personal preference. These oils are typically made from high-quality ingredients and can provide additional therapeutic benefits for specific conditions or concerns. The choice of massage oil will depend on the client's preferences and needs and the therapist's expertise and training in selecting the appropriate oil for each individual.

How to use essential oil for massage?

Using essential oils for massage can enhance the overall experience and provide additional healing properties. Massage therapy is derived from ancient techniques and is used for deep relaxation, correcting health issues, and complementing other treatments. Essential oils can be applied during a massage to amplify the therapeutic benefits when combined with carrier oil. The molecules of essential oils can profoundly affect the mind and body, impacting factors such as heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure, and immune function. Some of the benefits of an essential oil massage include relaxation, pain relief, reduced inflammation, increased flexibility, improved circulation, stress reduction, and skin moisturization. However, it is important to note that essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil before use to prevent skin irritation or sensitivity, as they are highly concentrated and evaporate quickly.

What oils are best for facial massage?

If you want to take your skincare routine to the next level, facial massage is a must-try! And the best part? You can enhance the benefits of facial massage by using the right massage oil. Several oils work wonders for facial massage, leaving your skin feeling rejuvenated and glowing. One of the most popular choices is jojoba oil, which closely resembles the natural oils produced by our skin. It is light, non-greasy, and easily absorbed, making it perfect for all skin types. Another fantastic option is almond oil, known for its moisturizing properties. It nourishes the skin while providing a soothing and relaxing experience during the massage. So, whether you're looking to boost circulation, reduce puffiness, or pamper yourself, choosing the right massage oil can make all the difference in your facial massage routine.