Many manufacturers and retailers recognize this, which is why the variety of massage oils and alternatives is enormous. Where should you begin when selecting the right massage oil?
It is important to choose a massage oil that matches your massage techniques. The right massage oil can positively influence the overall client experience.
What makes a good massage oil? Which ingredients should you avoid? What types of massage oil are available? What are the differences between massage lotion, massage wax, and massage oil?
In this article, we provide detailed explanations about everything you need to know about massage oil.
Table of Contents
- What is massage oil used for?
- Ingredients in massage oil
- Types of massage oil
- Alternatives to massage oil
- Frequently asked questions about massage oil
1. What is Massage Oil Used For?
Before diving into ingredients and types of massage oil, it's essential to understand why massage oil is used.
Massage oil reduces friction on the skin, allowing you to massage the muscles without irritating the skin. It can also have a pleasant scent, with each fragrance offering different effects.
For example, lavender is widely known for its relaxing properties. Using the right aroma enhances the overall experience of a relaxation massage.
Additionally, oils help regenerate and hydrate the skin, forming a protective layer.
2. Ingredients in Massage Oil
The quality of a massage oil is largely determined by its ingredients.
A good massage oil should:
- Not be absorbed too quickly into the skin
- Not feel sticky
- Have a subtle or neutral scent
The right viscosity (thickness) is also essential. The balance between gliding smoothly and not slipping too much depends on the blend of ingredients.
The client’s skin type and body part also matter. For example:
- Grapeseed oil is excellent for hairy skin or dry skin
- Apricot kernel oil is lightweight and quickly absorbed, making it ideal for facial massages
Best Ingredients for Massage Oil
- Grapeseed oil – Light, non-greasy, and has a smooth texture
- Sweet almond oil – Hydrates without leaving a greasy layer; suitable for all skin types
- Jojoba oil – Actually a liquid wax known to help with acne
- Coconut oil – Lightweight and non-greasy when heated above 22°C
- Sesame oil – Rich in antioxidants, but slightly thicker
- Apricot kernel oil – Thin and absorbs quickly into the skin, ideal for face massages
- Olive oil – Contains vitamin E and K, often blended with other oils
- Canola oil – High in vitamin E, known for skin hydration
- Castor oil – Provides moisture and softness, commonly used in massage oils
Ingredients to Avoid in Massage Oil
- Sunflower oil – Often used as a cheap base but leaves a fried-oil smell on towels
- Vaseline & Paraffin oil – These coat the skin, dissolve natural oils, and may cause skin issues
More information about massage oil ingredients is available in our ingredient guide.
Good ingredients for massage oil
Grapeseed oil – In many ways, grapeseed oil is highly suitable for massage oil. It has little to no scent and has a smooth texture but is somewhat greasier.
Almond oil – There are two types of almond oil: sweet almond oil and bitter almond oil. Bitter almond oil may contain amygdalin, which can release hydrocyanic acid in the body. Therefore, bitter almond oil is not recommended for massage oil. Sweet almond oil, on the other hand, is very suitable for massage oil. This oil is well absorbed by the skin and does not leave a greasy layer. It is also very nourishing for the skin and suitable for almost all skin types.
Jojoba oil – Jojoba oil is actually not an oil but a liquid wax extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant. It is believed that jojoba helps against acne. The liquid wax is very nourishing for the skin and is therefore highly suitable for dry and/or sensitive skin.
Coconut oil – Although you may know coconut oil as a white solid oil, coconut oil is very light, non-greasy, and liquid when heated. If your massage oil contains natural coconut oil, make sure to warm it above 22°C.
Sesame oil – Sesame oil is a thicker oil that can make the skin feel greasy. This oil is often used for Ayurvedic massages and is usually mixed with herbs. However, this oil does have a high level of antioxidants. Therefore, it is often mixed with a lighter oil, such as sweet almond oil.
Apricot kernel oil – Apricot kernel oil is a very light oil that is often used for facial massages. It is quickly absorbed by the skin and does not leave a greasy feeling.
Olive oil – Olive oil has many benefits as a massage oil. It contains vitamin E and K as well as fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6. Pure olive oil is quite thick, which is why it is often mixed with other oils in massage oil.
Canola oil – Canola oil has strong moisturizing properties for the skin. It naturally contains vitamin E, which helps with skin rejuvenation. It also helps with skin hydration.
Castor oil – Castor oil is known for its skin-softening properties. It also has moisturizing benefits and is regularly used in massage oil.
Ingredients in massage oil to avoid
Sunflower oil – Sunflower oil is often used as a cheap base for massage oil. Although this oil is very suitable for oily skin, we prefer to avoid using sunflower oil in massage oil at Zengrowth. This is mainly because sunflower oil can develop an unpleasant "fried oil" smell over time on towels and sheets.
Vaseline & paraffin oil – Using vaseline or paraffin oil in massage oil can damage the client’s skin. Vaseline and paraffin oil form a layer over the skin and, in some cases, can dissolve the skin’s natural oils, leading to unwanted side effects. These substances can cause a paraffin addiction, a skin condition that can develop from using mineral oils on the skin.
Would you like to know more about the base oils and ingredients commonly used in massage oils? Check out our ingredient book.
Essential Oils or Perfume Oil?
To give massage oil a pleasant scent, either an essential oil or a perfume oil can be added. In general, essential oil should never be applied undiluted to the skin (with the exception of lavender and tea tree oil).
The difference between essential oil and perfume oil lies in the fact that essential oil is directly extracted from a plant (and is therefore natural), whereas perfume oil is made in a factory. Essential oil is obtained through steam distillation or cold pressing. Perfume oil, on the other hand, is synthetically produced to mimic the scent. The fragrance of essential oil is much stronger than that of perfume oil. Due to the different production methods, there is also a significant price difference between essential oils and perfume oils.
Massage Oil and Allergic Reactions
At Zengrowth.nl, we prefer natural, plant-based oils as a base for massage oil. However, it is important to note that some people may be sensitive to certain ingredients. For example, individuals with a nut allergy may react to sweet almond oil or jojoba oil. Perfume oil can also cause allergic reactions. Signs of an allergic reaction include redness of the skin, itching, or small bumps.
3. Types of Massage Oil
As you can see from the list of different ingredients, there are many types of massage oils. Each oil has a different effect. With a neutral oil, you can add a few drops of essential oil yourself, while some oils already have essential oils mixed in.
The best massage oil varies from person to person. The choice depends on the area of the body being massaged, the client’s skin type, and the purpose of the massage (e.g., relaxation massage or sports massage).
Neutral Massage Oil
A neutral massage oil is fragrance-free. If you are giving a massage focused more on skincare than relaxation, or if your client is sensitive to essential oils, fragrance-free oil may be a better choice.
At Zengrowth.nl, we offer a variety of base oils, each with its own unique properties and viscosity. Of course, you can always add a few drops of your own essential oil to a neutral massage oil.
Massage Oil with Lavender
It is widely known that the scent of lavender has a calming and relaxing effect. This is why massage oil with lavender fragrance is often preferred for relaxation massages. It helps promote inner peace.
Sports Massage Oil
Some essential oils, such as juniper, mint, and grapefruit, can positively affect muscle recovery after exercise. Some sports massage oils also have a warming effect due to the presence of menthol or capsicum (red pepper). Many sports massage oils are not made from natural ingredients, but at Zengrowth.nl, we offer a special 100% natural sports massage oil.
Other Types of Massage Oil
Of course, there are many more scents available for massage oils. We recommend that massage therapists experiment with different fragrances and brands to find the oil that best suits their needs and the effects they want to achieve. Consider not only what the client prefers but also what works best for you as a therapist.
At Zengrowth.nl, we offer a small sample pack of Verana massage oils so you can try different types and find the one that suits you best.
4. Alternatives to Massage Oil
Besides massage oil, there are many other alternatives for massages! You can also use massage balm, lotion, or wax. Each alternative has its own texture and its own pros and cons compared to massage oil.
Massage Oil
Before we look at the pros and cons of massage oil alternatives, it is helpful to first understand the advantages and disadvantages of massage oil itself. Massage oil has a high level of glide.
- It nourishes the skin and is easily absorbed.
- It can be used hygienically with pump bottles or holsters.
- It is easy to warm up, making the massage experience more enjoyable for clients.
- Some people do not like the sticky or greasy feel of massage oil.
- Massage oil can stain textiles and clothing.
Massage Lotions and Creams
Massage lotions are often preferred when working with clients who have more body hair. Their consistency makes them easier to apply to hairy areas. Massage lotions are generally more fluid, while massage creams are slightly thicker. Their glide level falls between massage oil and massage balm.
- Ideal for deep tissue massages.
- Non-sticky and easy to remove from the skin.
- Provide more stability than oil, allowing therapists to have better control during the massage.
- Water-based lotions and creams can dry out the skin.
- Less hygienic, as they are typically sold in tubes or jars. It is recommended to use a spatula for application.
- Harder to warm up, meaning they may feel cold on the skin.
Massage Balm and Wax
Massage wax and balm are much thicker than massage oil and creams. While massage wax can be used for full-body massages, massage balm is usually applied to specific areas. Massage balm is typically a bit thicker than wax and contains a higher concentration of essential oils.
- Provides more control for the therapist, offering better grip and reducing the chance of slipping.
- Due to their thickness, they are less suitable for clients with a lot of body hair.
- Less hygienic to use, as they usually come in jars or tubes. It is best to use a spatula for application.
Massage Oil from ZenGrowth
At Zengrowth.nl, we value transparency regarding the ingredients in our cosmetic products. Since massage oil is applied directly to the skin, it is essential to know exactly what is in it. That’s why all ingredients are clearly listed in our product descriptions.
We have also created an ingredient book that explains the benefits of different ingredients and highlights any potential allergens.
➔ Check out our massage oils
5. Frequently Asked Questions About Massage Oil
Does massage oil have an expiration date?
Yes, massage oil has an expiration date, which is usually printed on the packaging. On average, oils last about 12 months, though some may last longer. Oils stored in glass bottles tend to have a longer shelf life, while plastic bottles may alter the scent over time due to interactions with the oil.
Is massage oil bad for the skin?
This depends on the ingredients. Oils containing paraffin or petroleum jelly can block the skin and, in some cases, dissolve the skin’s natural oils, leading to unwanted effects. On the other hand, natural oils such as jojoba oil are highly beneficial for the skin and can even help with conditions like acne.
How do I choose the right massage oil?
That depends on your personal preferences and the goal of your massage. It is always a good idea to check the ingredients to ensure there are no harmful substances. The scent is also an important factor. For example, lavender oil has a calming effect.
Which massage oil is suitable for hot stone massages?
An oil that can be heated up to approximately 60°C without separating is ideal. It should also have a soothing scent.
How do I remove massage oil stains from clothing, sheets, or towels?
In most cases, oil stains can be removed with a regular wash cycle. If the stain is stubborn, pre-treating it with gall soap can help.
Tip: Do not wash massage textiles such as towels with your regular clothes. Over time, a light oil scent may remain in the fabric. While this is not a problem for towels, it is best avoided for clothing.
Which massage oil is suitable for pregnancy massages?
For pregnancy massages, it is important to use oils with relaxing properties, such as lavender or chamomile. Avoid essential oils like basil, hyssop, juniper, marjoram, myrrh, rosemary, sage, and clary sage.
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