Selecting the most appropriate oil for a body massage is to some degree a personal preference but there are also several subtle yet important factors that deserve careful attention.
You're probably eager for your treatment to start, but spend a few moments getting the best massage oil for your body and you'll get even more out of your next massage!
Massage treatment oils typically combine a base oil for lubrication with essential oils for fragrance or therapeutic benefits.
A 'base oil' acts as the carrier oil, providing lubrication for the massage and acting as a vehicle for essential oils or other additives.
In massage therapy, it's best to use natural oils for the base.
Avoid mineral oils or petroleum-based products, as they can clog pores and lack the beneficial properties found in natural oils, hindering the therapeutic benefits of the massage.
There are many options for base oils, from coconut to jojoba, but we suggest you stick with one of the following two classics. These are also the most commonly used by massage professionals:
To enhance your massage experience, add a few drops of one or more 'essential oils' to your selected base oil.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts known for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. Choosing which essential oils to add is a key aspect of aromatherapy massage therapy, so where possible take advice from a qualified aromatherapist.
According to our London based massage therapists, some of the most popular essential oils used in aromatherapy massage treatments are:
While oil remains the most popular choice for a therapeutic and relaxing full-body massage, some people don't like the potential difficult-to-remove stains and lingering sense of oiliness. If that sounds like you, try one of the following alternatives:
In the colder months, take your massage experience to a higher level with the comforting touch of heated oil! This not only adds a delightful warmth to your therapy session but can also help accelerate muscle relaxation and tension relief throughout your body.
It's important to stay safe when using warm oil. Here's some tips:
We believe getting a massage with warm oil - regardless of the weather - is quite simply one of the best oil based massages around. Try it and see what you've been missing!
Traditionally, spices like ginger and turmeric have been revered for their medicinal qualities. In recent years, a number of massage oils have been developed based on these beliefs.
Turmeric massage oil stands out for its array of benefits, courtesy of the exceptional properties found in this golden-hued spice. Recognised for its robust anti-inflammatory attributes, this essential oil is blended into a base massage oil, such as almond oil, to alleviate joint and muscle discomfort. If you're suffering with arthritis or general muscular tension, this is a great oil to apply during your massage. Turmeric oil is also celebrated for its antioxidant prowess, contributing to improved skin health and a more radiant complexion.
Choose oils that are cold-press extracted from fresh produce for a touch of nature's goodness on your skin during the treatment. This ensures you're getting high-quality, natural oils with the perfect blend of fatty acids.
We highly recommend opting for natural oils with fragrances sourced from essential oils to create an authentic and therapeutic experience. Steer clear of oils that incorporate artificial scents!
Our mobile massage therapists usually bring along unscented almond oil to cater to a broad spectrum of preferences.
➪ Feel free to ask your therapist to use your own preferred oil to tailor the experience to your liking.
Remember, not every treatment needs oil; for example, Thai massage is often performed without it, but if you desire an oil-based Thai massage, consider our Thai Oil Combo session.
In conclusion, the choice of massage oil is a personal decision that can influence the ambiance and effectiveness of your massage treatment significantly.
Whether you choose a classic unscented oil or provide your own favourite aromatic blend, the right choice adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your massage session.
So, take a moment to set the stage for a truly exceptional massage by curating an environment that engages all five senses. Scent and touch are heightened with the right oils, while the addition of soothing music, candles, and refreshments can transform your massage into a holistic sensory and physical relaxation session.