Massage oils
that melt away stress and tension!
Massage oils are the most important massage product for a professional therapist to use in their everyday practice. They often choose their oil carefully and with great care.
When massage therapists find the oil they like, they then search for the best prices and often look for distributors to get the best deal, even if they have to purchase in bulk.
How to choose - massage oil vs. cream
When selecting massage oils or creams for a practice, consider factors like the intended massage modality, client preferences, allergies, and the desired glide and absorption rate. Massage oils provide a smooth glide and are great for long, flowing movements, while creams offer more control and are ideal for deep tissue work.
Factors to Consider:
- Massage Modality:
Oils: Ideal for modalities like aromatherapy, hot stone massage, and those emphasizing long, flowing movements.
Creams: Better suited for deep tissue massage and targeted areas where you need more control and less slippage.
- Client Preferences:Scent:
Some clients may prefer natural scents or fragrances, while others may be sensitive to strong aromas. Texture:
Some clients prefer a lighter, quicker-absorbing oil, while others may enjoy a thicker, more viscous oil for better glide. Absorption: Consider how quickly the product should absorb and leave the client's skin feeling dry.
- Allergies and Sensitivities:
Always inquire about allergies and sensitivities to ingredients like nuts, fragrances, or specific oils before application.
Look for vegan, organic, or hypoallergenic options to minimize potential reactions.
- Glide and Absorption:
Oils: Generally provide a longer glide, allowing for smooth movements.
Creams: May have a shorter glide, but can be absorbed quickly, making them suitable for deep tissue work.
- Therapeutic Properties:
Some oils and creams are infused with essential oils or other ingredients that may offer therapeutic benefits like relaxation, pain relief, or muscle soreness reduction.
Shelf Life and Quality:Consider the shelf life of the product and how it degrades over time, especially with oils. Purchase from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and avoid unwanted additives.
Types of Massage Oils:
Sweet Almond Oil: A good, all-around oil, generally well-tolerated.
Jojoba Oil: Similar to skin's natural oils, can be effective for a range of skin types.
Coconut Oil: Can be a good option for drier skin.
Grapeseed Oil: Good overall oil, benefits for the skin with linoleic acid, and fragrance-free.
Sesame Oil: Used for nourishing and detoxifying the body through the skin - often used warm.
Apricot Kernal Oil: Rich in vitamin E, A, and essential fatty acids, great alternative for those with nut allergies.
Avocado Oil: this heavy oil is packed full of vitamins A and D, as well as lecithin, potassium, and chlorophyll. It can offer healing benefits that combat both bacteria and signs of ageing
Unscented Creams: A good option for clients with sensitive skin or allergies.
Massage Gel is great for men with lots of hair, massage stones, or relaxation massage.
Tips for Choosing:
- Start with a small amount: Evaluate how much product you need for a massage and adjust accordingly.
- Consider combining products: Some therapists combine oils and creams to tailor the massage experience.
- Test on yourself or a small area: Before applying a new product to a client, try it on yourself or a small area to assess its texture, glide, and any potential reactions.
Bulk prices of oils not only provide deep discounts, but often saves money in shipping, and they can be delivered to your door.
Finding the distributor who keeps the prices low, can sometimes be the challenge. Buying your oil by the gallon is best, as well as economical.
Here are a few massage oils that we like:
1) BIOTONE® Nutri Naturals Light is a light, easy gliding, non-greasy gel that is great for sensitive skin or those with allergies. It contains no mineral or nut oils, drying alcohol, or fragrance. It is a blend of the purest Apricot oil, Grapeseed oil and Sesame Oil, perfect for all types of massage or dry skin conditions.
2) Soothing Touch Fragrance Free Lite Massage Oil is an Ayurvedic blend designed to moisturize and repair the skin. Get a deep, smooth glide with this oil. This oil is water dispersible and washes out of the sheets. It is highly rated oil contains no nut oil and is a great choice for healthy skin therapies.
The therapeutic benefits of massage are even more effective when using the best oils.
Certain massage oils can reduce the friction between the hands and skin, for that amazing feeling of easy gliding. It also greatly moisturizes the skin and, depending on the type of oil used and desired outcome of the massage, can also give healthy benefits.
Choosing the right oil can be the difference between an average and excellent massage.
The massage oils used in massage therapy can be expensive. But, if you can find an oil that you love, an oil that your clients love, you can feel the release of stress and tension with each massage.
For more tips on how to choose an oil, read this article on Healthline.
Go back to Massage Education Guide Homepage
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.