Which Oil Is Best For Your Massage?

So you have selected a massage therapist from your favourite website, you have stripped off and covered your modesty with the lovely fluffy towel provided, and the therapist enters the room with a bottle of ....... Baby Oil.

Baby oil is made from mineral oil; it acts like a layer over your skin.

I have always wondered why you can still feel the oil on your skin after a massage and on the way home.

It is difficult to absorb and clog the pores, slowing the skin's ability to eliminate toxins.

Most brands smell pretty awful as well.

If you're using it at home with your partner and want to slide all over each other or have a bit of an oil wrestle, it will do a great job, though!

So what oils are best?

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated Coconut Oil is a light, non-greasy liquid oil that doesn't smell like coconuts.

If you are a spa owner, it's great because it lasts ages and washes out of towels well.

It is quite a sticky oil, so it is best suited for use on specific muscle tension areas rather than long gliding strokes.

Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet Almond Oil is the most popular oil for massage; it is pale yellow and is more oily than Fractionated Coconut oil.

The skin quickly absorbs it, so that a top-up will be needed during the massage.

If you're after a flowing, relaxing massage, Almond oil will be perfect.

People with nut allergies should avoid using Sweet Almond Oil.

Grape Seed Oil

Grape Seed Oil has a high nutrient value since it has high omega-6 fatty acids, which are very good for your skin.

It has a very soft silky feel that makes it an excellent massage oil, and it is also a non-allergenic oil, so it's great for all skin types and those with a nut allergy.

It is highly absorbent and moisturising, making it an excellent choice for massage oil, especially for sensitive skin.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba Oil is a wax used widely for massage; it has a non-greasy feel and absorbs quickly into the skin.

It has excellent anti-bacterial properties, so if you suffer from acne, it could do you good; it is also suitable for all skin types.

Cocoa Butter

If you have dehydrated skin, you may like to try Cocoa Butter.

It's very heavy for massage but is an excellent moisturiser packed with Vitamin E.

Conclusion

Next time you go for a massage, ask your massage therapist which oils they use; maybe even take your own and discover which suits you best.