Massage oil is an essential part of a relaxing massage. However, the label on a massage oil can often be misleading and not accurately reflect what is actually inside.
Almond massage oil with no more than 20% almond oil? 'Natural' massage oil with paraffin as the main ingredient? It happens – and it's allowed!
It is crucial to read the ingredient list carefully, as our skin is our largest organ and deserves the proper care!
In this article, we help you decipher the ingredient list of your massage oil and discuss seven ingredients that you should avoid.
Reading INCI Ingredients in Cosmetics
Before we discuss the specific ingredients, it's helpful to know how to read the ingredient list of your massage oil. According to European legislation, it is mandatory to list the scientific names of the product's ingredients on the label.
Since the naming is in Latin and not in Dutch, it can sometimes be quite difficult to decipher. Here, we are happy to help!
INCI, which stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients, is a system for naming cosmetic ingredients based on their scientific names.
The ingredient that appears the most is listed at the beginning of the ingredient list, while the ingredient that appears the least is listed at the end.
Harmful Ingredients in Massage Oil
1. Mineral Oils
Mineral oils are derived from petroleum and are still often found in massage oils.
Although they provide a smooth feeling, they can block the skin, preventing it from breathing. This can lead to clogged pores and skin irritations, especially for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as acne.
They do protect the skin, but they don't have the same skin benefits as natural oils!
You can find them on the ingredient list as: mineral oil, paraffinum (liquidum), paraffin (wax), petrolatum (vaseline), petroleum oil.
2. Colorants
Colorants are added to make products more visually appealing, but they add absolutely nothing to your massage oil.
Some colorants can cause allergic reactions and irritate the skin, especially with prolonged use.
Particularly, some massage balms tend to add colorants.
There are both artificial (FD&C FDC, FD, and D&C) and natural (e.g., iron oxide-based) colorants.
Although natural colorants are generally less harmful, we still recommend avoiding them. They add no value to your massages (after all, the person lying on their stomach won’t see the color of the oil or balm).
Artificial colorants appear on the ingredient list as: FD, FDC, FD&C color.
Natural colorants appear as: CI-1..., CI-2..., CI-4..., CI-5..., CI-6... & CI-7...
3. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used to extend the shelf life of cosmetic products. However, they are known for their potential health risks, including hormone disruption.
You can find them on the ingredient list as: Isobutylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Methylparaben.
4. Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals often used to improve the scent of cosmetics. However, they can be harmful to health and are linked to hormonal disruptions and fertility issues.
Since the skin can easily absorb phthalates, it’s better to choose phthalate-free massage oils.
You can find them on the ingredient list as: di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), di-isononyl phthalate (DINP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP).
5. PEG (Polyethylene Glycol)
PEGs are synthetic chemicals commonly used as emulsifiers and moisturizers in cosmetics, including massage oils. They help improve texture and spreadability of the product on the skin.
However, there are concerns about the safety of PEGs, particularly when it comes to skin absorption.
PEGs can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, substances known for their potential carcinogenic properties. Additionally, PEGs can disrupt the skin barrier, making the skin more susceptible to irritations and allergies.
You can find them on the ingredient list as: PEG-6, PEG-8, PEG-40, PEG-100, Laureth sulfate, Coceth-7, Myreth-10, Myreth-3 laurate, Myreth sulfate, Isosteareth-200 palmitate, Almondeth-20.
6. Silicones
Silicones are widely used in cosmetic products due to their unique properties: they are smooth, water-resistant, and form a protective layer on the skin. In massage oils, they provide a silky texture and ease of spreading over the skin.
However, there are significant drawbacks to using silicones. They can block the skin, potentially clogging pores and preventing the skin from breathing. This can be problematic for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Additionally, some types of silicones are difficult to break down in the environment.
You can find them on the ingredient list as: Cetearyl Methicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Stearyl, Dimethiconol, Phenyl Trimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
7. Alcohol
Alcohol in cosmetics can serve various purposes and isn’t necessarily bad for your balm/lotion/oil. However, the type of alcohol and its concentration play a crucial role in how it affects the skin.
Some forms of alcohol, such as fatty alcohols (e.g., cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol), can actually be soothing and hydrating. Other forms, like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, can—especially in higher concentrations—dry out and irritate the skin.
This is particularly concerning for those with sensitive, dry, or damaged skin barriers, as it can strip away the skin's natural lipids.
Drying alcohols on the ingredient list: Alcohol Denat, Ethanol, Ethyl alcohol, Benzyl alcohol, Isopropyl alcohol.
8. Fragrance (Parfum)
Nothing is more delightful than a relaxing massage with an oil that smells like lavender. Although the ingredient fragrance on its own isn’t necessarily bad, it can be.
It is used as a collective term for various ingredients. Under the term "fragrance," manufacturers can put anything into a product, like alcohol, phthalates, and much more harmful substances—crazy, right?
But manufacturers can also choose to work with only natural fragrances. Therefore, while the ingredient fragrance doesn't always have to be harmful, it is wise to avoid it unless you are 100% sure the fragrance is naturally based.
You can find it on the ingredient list as: Fragrance, Parfum.
Always Read the Ingredients List
Choosing the right massage oil is essential for a great massage experience. By being aware of the ingredients in your massage oil, you can avoid products that could be harmful to your skin and health. This way, you can prevent applying harmful substances to your skin.
So, don't focus on the fancy packaging with the catchy tagline, but instead look at the INCI list of ingredients in your massage oil.
Looking for a 100% natural massage oil without any harmful ingredients? Check out our collection!
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