So, you're curious about what the best massage oil is? Just like the question of what the best car is, this question cannot be answered with a standard response. It varies for everyone and depends on the situation. It depends on what you, as a masseur, find comfortable, the type of massage, the purpose of the massage, and your client's body.
To determine which massage oil is best for you, there are a few factors to consider:
- The type of massage you want to give
- The skin type of the person being massaged
- The part of the body being massaged
- The scent of the massage oil
- Price/quality
In this article, we will discuss all these factors, and perhaps you'll discover which massage oil is most suitable for you!
The Type of Massage
Of course, it's obvious that an Ayurvedic massage uses a different massage oil than a Swedish massage. In Ayurveda, sesame oil is often used, mixed with various herbs and spices, whereas a massage oil for a Swedish massage typically has a subtle lavender scent.
The texture of the massage oil, massage lotion, or massage cream also makes a significant difference. Relaxation massages often involve gentle touches, making oil the best option, while for a trigger point massage, more resistance is needed, making a lotion or cream a better choice.
For a sports massage, it's particularly important that the oil is stimulating and enhances blood circulation. This effect can be stimulated with ingredients like capsicum and menthol. Are you giving a pregnancy massage? Read this article for more information.
The Skin Type of the Person Being Massaged
The most important factor is that the person being massaged (your client) enjoys the massage. Always ask if your client has any allergies first. For example, it’s not a good idea to use a massage oil with almond oil as a base on someone with a nut allergy.
Additionally, some massage oils contain synthetic fragrance oils that can cause allergic reactions. In general, using essential oils in massage oil results in fewer allergic reactions than synthetic perfumes.
We also recommend avoiding mineral-based oils such as petroleum jelly or paraffin. These ingredients can block the skin and sometimes cause paraffin addiction, where the skin's natural oils dissolve, leading to dryness and other negative effects.
Thickness of the Massage Oil
Since you want your clients to keep coming back, it's advisable to choose an oil with ingredients that are good for the skin and that your clients find pleasant. Every skin type is different. For some, oil absorbs quickly, while for others, it doesn’t. Some prefer a more oily consistency, while others find it unpleasant.
If you are massaging someone with a lot of body hair, you might prefer a thicker oil that doesn’t absorb too quickly, such as grapeseed oil.
On the other hand, apricot kernel oil is a very light oil, ideal for massages where you don’t want a greasy texture, such as facial massages.
Some oils combine multiple base oils. For example, all Verana massage oils are made with a blend of five different natural oils, making them less greasy than pure grapeseed or sweet almond oil but thicker than apricot kernel oil.
Verana also offers a special facial massage oil, which is slightly lighter than their regular massage oil.
Since every person has different allergies and skin conditions, the best massage oil varies for each individual. Always listen carefully to your client’s allergies, concerns, and preferences to choose the right oil. In general, we recommend opting for a natural massage oil rather than one with mineral oils.
The Scent of the Massage Oil
The scent of a massage oil is, of course, very personal. What one person enjoys smelling, another may find unpleasant. Always make sure to have a variety of scents available, as well as an unscented massage oil.
Also, consider the type of massage you’re giving. For example, coconut scent can perfectly complement a Lomi Lomi massage. The season may also influence the scents you want to offer. A pine-scented massage oil can be a great seasonal addition in autumn.
Only offer scents that you also enjoy, as you, the masseur, will be working with them all day!
Price/Quality Ratio of Massage Oil
Of course, price is also an important factor. Especially for oil-rich massages like Lomi Lomi massages, where you might use 100 to 200 ml per session, an expensive massage oil can quickly become costly. These costs then need to be passed on to your client, making your massages more expensive.
In general, oils like avocado oil and jojoba oil are much more expensive to produce than castor oil and sweet almond oil, significantly increasing the price of massage oils. Carefully consider whether the higher price of certain ingredients is worth the extra cost.
So, What is the Best Massage Oil?
A good massage oil is essential for a quality massage. In general, there is no single best massage oil, as it depends on individual preferences and needs.
However, we believe that it is always better to choose a natural massage oil and avoid mineral oils.
If you are not in the high-end market segment, price is, of course, an important factor to consider.
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