Best Massage Oils For Body Massage Therapists Use & Love in [Aug. 2023]

Are your muscles sore from wrong posture or intense workout?

Do you feel stressed and tense due to constant pressure and everyday worries?

A good massage can do wonders for your overall health and well-being. Combining a nourishing carrier oil with the right essential oils can help you improve the quality of your lifestyle.

The massage therapists know it all. After all, massage oils are everywhere, but we’re here to help you find the best massage oil that will suit your specific needs.

Let's find the perfect combination of a body and oil?

Let’s find the perfect oil!

The Best Carrier Oils for Massage

In case you’re wondering which is the best oil for body massage, what oil is right for your skin, and whether fractionated coconut oil or even almond oil is good for body massage, you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s a list of the #1 massage oils therapists love to use, along with their benefits, and different qualities which may ease your choice.

Sweet Almond oil

One of the most popular oils among massage therapists. It absorbs well into the skin, and it’s a perfect match with either essential oils or other carrier oils.

Nutrition: rich in linoleic and oleic essential fatty acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and E. it also contains minerals and protein.

Benefits: it is a nourishing and gentle oil that soothes and softens the skin. It is an excellent moisturizer that offers natural protection to your skin.

It promotes a youthful complexion, and relieves muscular aches, and pain. It doesn't clog pores; that’s why it is also a natural aid in eczema, acne, and psoriasis.

About: it is useful for most massage therapy techniques. It is also used for a head massage because it improves circulation and boosts hair growth. This light, non-greasy oil offers an excellent glide and spreads quickly. It is pale yellow with a sweet and soft aroma. It may stain clothes and linens.

Skin type: all

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Shea butter

An excellent butter to have around in winter, shea butter is very nutritious, creamy, and rich. It’s also a popular addition to all homemade skincare products from body butter to facial creams.

Nutrition: shea butter has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains acids (oleic, stearic, palmitic, linolenic acids), vitamins A and E, and catechins.

Benefits: shea butter is a natural aid in reducing the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Applying oil regularly may help minimize the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Shea soothes various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn, because it has healing effects on the skin. Naturally, it nourishes dry, cracked skin and locks in moisture.

About: shea butter is thick and creamy, but it absorbs quite quickly.  It may not be the best choice for summertime, but it’s very nurturing in the cold seasons because it offers excellent protection for the skin. Shea butter is pale, a bit yellowish with a faintly nutty aroma.

Skin type: baby, sensitive, acne skin, cracked and dry skin

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Avocado oil

This fruit oil (yes, avocado is a fruit, not veg) is an excellent oil for massaging.

Nutrition: avocado oil is rich in essential acids, phytosterols, and vitamins A, D, E. It also contains minerals, such as potassium, and chlorophyll. With its emollient, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, avocado oil is very nutritious for the skin.

Benefits: avocado oil can deeply penetrate the skin, providing it with all the necessary nutrients. It is very beneficial for skin conditions, it regenerates and repairs the skin, nurtures mature and dehydrated skin. It is moisturizing and even has anti-aging properties.

About: avocado oil is a rich and a bit heavier oil, yet easily absorbed. While it can be used pure, just as it is, quite often is avocado oil mixed with another grapeseed. Green in color, avocado oil has a faint oily aroma.

Skin type: dry, mature skin, dehydrated and undernourished skin. people with eczema and psoriasis

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Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax, not oil, which is why it rarely oxidizes and has a long shelf-life. It is one of the top massage oils there are. It helps to maintain healthy and well-nourished skin.

Jojoba oil or liquid gold is a favorite carrier oil for essential oils and a crucial ingredient in massage gels and massage lotions.

Nutrition: it is rich in vitamin E and B-complex, and minerals such as zinc, copper, iodine, and selenium. It also contains oleic acid. It has antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties which promote healthy skin.

Benefits: the structure of jojoba oil resembles that of the sebum, the natural oils on our skin. That means that jojoba oil can influence and help regulate the oil production of our skin.

That’s why jojoba can be a natural aid in acne. Apart from that of, it also nourishes and heals dry skin and damaged hair. Turn to it if you want to refresh your skin or soothe sore muscles.

About: jojoba oil used for various massages. It enables a massage therapist to work on your skin for more extended periods than other oils. Since there is little need for frequent reapplication, one bottle lasts a long time.

The oil absorbs very well; it is also light, non-greasy with the faintly earthly smell. The refined oil is pale yellow; the pure version comes in golden color.

Skin type: any type, it’s hypoallergenic

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Apricot kernel oil (Prunus armeniaca seed fixed oil)

Apricot oil is a favorite oil and a natural alternative for people with nut allergies. It is an ideal ingredient in the cosmetic products, such as face masks, body butter, and lip balms.

Nutrition: apricot oil is rich in essential acids (oleic and linoleic acid) and vitamins A and E. with its antioxidants properties, it fights free-radical damage and promotes healthy skin.

Benefits: apricot kernel oil is very nurturing for the skin. It is a natural lubricant, which provides the skin with moisture and it boosts elasticity at the same time. It increases moisture absorption and has anti-aging properties.

About: apricot oil absorbs slowly which is why it’s best for hot stone massage. It is pale yellow to golden color with a soft nutty smell. It may stain linens and clothes.

Skin type: mature and aging skin, dry or sensitive skin

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Cocoa butter

Extracted from cocoa beans, cocoa butter, has an aromatic scent, a difficult one to resist. A favorite ingredient in homemade skincare, butter, and massage lotions, it is often a regular addition to massage creams.

Nutrition: cocoa butter is rich in vitamin E and minerals (magnesium, copper, potassium). It also contains polyphenols, and it’s high in acids (oleic, palmitic, stearic acids). With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it provides natural nourishment to the skin.

Benefits: cocoa butter hydrates and nourishes the skin, keeping it youthful and healthy. It is a natural aid when it comes to free-radical damage. Moreover, it also reduces scars and supposedly stretches marks as well.

Cocoa butter is a natural remedy for skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema. Skin rejuvenation has never been this tasty and fragrant!

About: while cocoa butter may seem greasy at first, it’s quite creamy and quickly absorbed. It provides a smooth glide, and it’s easy to work with since it melts at skin temperature. The butter is pale yellow.

Skin type: not for oily skin nor acne-prone, because it could clog the pores

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Olive oil

Olive oil is a good staple in the kitchen, but it makes a great oil as well.

Combined with other oils, it is often an essential ingredient in massage creams that soothe sore muscles, and repair dry, cracked skin.

Nutrition: it is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, olive oil also contains protein, and small amounts of minerals (iron, calcium, potassium, and sodium). It promotes healthy skin and battles free-radical damage with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Benefits: it is a natural remedy for sore muscles and strained joints. It soothes the tense nerves and helps to relieve stress. Olive oil is quite a jewel among the oils; it also boosts blood circulation and hydrates the skin.

This oil nourishes dry and itchy skin.

By creating a protective barrier, it promotes glowing and younger-looking skin. What’s more, olive oil is also said to reduce stretch marks, slow down the signs of aging, and aids in psoriasis and eczema.

About: olive oil used for any massage: face, head, and body massage. It provides an excellent glide; it’s easy to work with.

It has a lighter texture with pale green color. Its grassy smell may not be the top choice for everyone, but it’s worth giving it a try.

Skin type: dry

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Grapeseed oil

Made with cold-pressing grape seeds, it is a highly frequent ingredient in skincare and body care products. Shampoos, body lotions or bath oils, grapeseed oil, are also other healthy alternatives for people with nut allergies.

Nutrition: it is rich in antioxidants (polyphenols), vitamins E and C, minerals and protein, linoleic acid (essential fatty acid). It also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Benefits: it naturally boosts the anti-aging process, by preventing fine lines and wrinkles. It aids in skin conditions such as acne, and it prevents skin breakouts.

This oil promotes smooth skin, by locking in moisture and penetrating deep into the skin. It is very nourishing for the skin, and it also protects it from free-radical damage.

About: grapeseed is used for most massage therapy techniques (hot stone massage, facial massage, deep tissue with shaped stones).

It’s creamy in texture but very easily absorbed without the greasy feeling. Since this oil is thin, it’s easy to work with.

Very light and almost colorless, it has a sweet yet very mild scent.

Skin type: oily

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Wheat germ oil

Thick, creamy, and luxurious, wheat germ oil can work wonders when it comes to skin benefits and hair health. Not recommended for people with wheat allergies.

Nutrition: wheat germ oil is rich in fatty acids (linoleic, palmitic, oleic, and linolenic). It contains protein, vitamins A, D, and E, as well as minerals. It has very high levels of alpha-tocopherol and potent antioxidant properties, which can offer all the best to your skin if you can only ignore the smell.

Benefits: wheat germ oil moisturizes dry skin. It protects the skin from free-radical damage, and it even boosts collagen production. This oil improves circulation, stimulates cell regeneration, and reduces redness and inflammation.

About: wheat germ oil is thick and not easily absorbed, which is why it is best diluted with another carrier oil. Since its aroma can be quite strong and off-putting, smell it before purchasing, if you can. Wheat germ oil is dark yellow to brown in color.

Skin type: dry, dehydrated skin, mature skin. Not recommended for acne-prone skin.

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Kukui nut oil

Kukui nut oil is common massage oil. Once used by royalty, it has become an essential ingredient in many massage lotions, massage gels, and creams. It’s not appropriate for people with nut allergies, but everyone else should enjoy the soothing effect of this oil.

Nutrition: kukui nut oil is rich in vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Benefits: kukui oil provides moisture for any dry skin. It rejuvenates tired skin, and also used as a natural pain relief for burned skin. A natural remedy for eczema, psoriasis, and acne, this oil aids in premature aging and it forms a protective barrier that protects the skin from the sun and other elements.

About: kukui oil is a bit oily, but it absorbs into the skin very well. A light yellow color, this oil has a light nutty smell, and a little goes a long way.

Skin type: it’s hypoallergenic

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The best essential Oils for Massage

Healing and relaxation with essential oils have been a common practice in aromatherapy. Combining a proper essential oil with an ayurvedic oil can significantly contribute to overall well-being and health.

While essential oils are beneficial, their uses and applications vary. Only by choosing an appropriate aromatherapy oil, you can make the most of the massage therapy.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender is an extremely popular essential oil. It relieves stress, anxiety, and nervous tension, among others. It also boosts blood circulation, and it’s useful and effective with tight and sore muscles. A natural aid in headaches and depression, lavender oil helps with acne and eczema.

Blends well with rose, geranium, frankincense, clary sage, sweet orange, cedarwood, vetiver

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Rose (Rosa damascena)

With a very intoxicating smell, rose oil boosts confidence and is regarded as an aphrodisiac. It has antidepressant and astringent properties.

This oil reduces inflammation, minimizes scars, and promotes the healing process of the skin. It also soothes painful menstruation. Rose oil detoxifies the skin, making it appear youthful and fresh.

Blends well: bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, sandalwood, ylang-ylang

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Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides)

With a strong aroma that can quickly overtake other oils, the vetiver calms the mind and reduces stress and nervous tension.

With its regenerative properties, it is very beneficial for the skin.

Vetiver oil boosts circulation and the immune system. Both a tonic and an aphrodisiac, this oil is deeply calming and anti-inflammatory.

*Avoid during pregnancy

Blends well with: bergamot, cedarwood, geranium, lemongrass, jasmine, lavender, rose

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Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata)

Another aphrodisiac with an intense, uplifting floral aroma, this essential oil comes from the petals of a large tropical tree.

Ylang-ylang promotes the youthful appearance of the skin by rejuvenating skin cells.

It has been used in aromatherapy to help with depression, stress, and anxiety because it is both invigorating and energizing.

Blends well lemon, rose, vetiver, jasmine, grapefruit, sweet orange, lime

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Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Bergamot oil has a sweet, refreshing, and uplifting fragrance that comes from fruit- a hybrid between a lemon and an orange.

Due to its, it has calming properties; this oil is a natural aid for stress relief. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties with sedative effects.

Blends well: chamomile, geranium, neroli, jasmine

* Bergamot oil is phototoxic. Avoid direct sunlight if applying it to your skin.

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Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

The soothing, calming and relaxing fragrance of chamomile essential oil is something you can’t resist. This oil is, however, much more than just a relaxing agent.

It has anti-inflammatory properties, and it naturally detoxifies the skin. Chamomile oil boosts circulation and reduces stress.

Blends well: cedarwood, cypress, lavender

*avoid during pregnancy

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Frankincense (Boswellia carteri or Boswellia sacra)

The Word frankincense derives from French, meaning quality incense. Used in religious ceremonies for centuries, it has become a favorite oil in aromatherapy as well.

This oil is a natural toner for the skin, and it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties. Frankincense soothes stress, improves sleep, and boosts the immune system. It is a natural relief for menstruation, when dealing with cramps, bloating, headaches, anxiety, and mood swings.

Blends well: cypress, vetiver, sandalwood, geranium, lavender, black pepper

*Avoid during pregnancy

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Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemongrass is an uplifting essential oil that boosts the mood, relieves anxiety, and nervous tension. It is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, it stimulates the circulation and the healing process of the skin.

A natural aid in aching muscles, painful joints, and menstrual cramps, lemongrass is also useful when it comes to headaches.

Blends well”:  patchouli, bergamot, rosemary, lavender, geranium

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Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Due to its sweet and rich fragrance, geranium is a popular oil in the perfume and cosmetic industry.

It is useful for many skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antioxidant properties. Geranium oil is excellent for oily skin, and it also minimizes the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Blends well: vetiver, lime, sweet orange, lavender, bergamot, rose, tangerine, jasmine

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Neroli (Citrus aurantium amara)

A blend of citrus and floral fragrance, neroli oil is one of the most expensive essential oils. With its many properties, it also relieves pain and headaches. It’s a natural aid when it comes to stress and anxiety even when it comes to stress in post-menopausal women.

Neroli oil is a natural remedy for skin conditions such as acne and eczema.

It also aids in minimizing wrinkles, making the skin seem younger and fresher. Appropriate for all skin types.

Blends well: Chamomile, ginger, lavender, jasmine, clary sage, lemon, myrrh

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Our recommendations

To get you started with massage products, we’ve gathered a few brands to help you choose one to your taste.

Viva Naturals Sweet Almond Oil

It is one of the most popular oils. This light, non-greasy oil helps nourish the skin and soothe it at the same time. Best for newbies who have just recently begun to discover the world of massage.

About:

• Color: minimal, pale, and light
• Faint aroma
• Cold-pressed
• Bottle: amber glass for the best protection from sunlight
• no additives

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Molivera Organics

For those that aim for soft skin, this is the oil to choose. It is excellent for massages and what’s best about it is that little goes a long way. This almond oil gives you the best results without feeling oily or greasy on the skin.

About Molivera Organics

• Color: light yellow, almost transparent
• Faint aroma, if any
• Not organic
• Bottle: BPA free (plastic), dark for protection from sunlight
• 100% pure, no additives

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Weleda Arnica Massage Oil

The certified natural product from the hands of Weleda company, this oil is perfect for people who are active on a regular basis.

Arnica oil aids in restoring the skin, relaxing the muscles with calming, toning, and warming effects. The oil absorbs fast without feeling greasy and leaves the skin firm.

About Weleda Arnica oil

• Pleasant aroma with a soft herbal scent
• Plant-based, vegan, certified natural skincare
• Bottle: dark green glass for protection from sunlight
• Does not contain any synthetic ingredients (preservatives, mineral oil, fragrances)
• Best for: physically active people, before or after workout massage, or a relaxing massage

Ingredients: Sunflower Seed Oil, Olive Oil, Fragrance, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Betula Alba Leaf Extract, Limonene, Linalool, Geraniol, Coumarin

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Best Massage Oil for Blood Circulation?

A good massage oil must have a very thin consistency and also be stable," advises Joseph. "Fluid composition of massage oils is very important. Generally, they should be super light, don't have a strong fragrance, and maintain aroma in a light spectrum. All the oils that we've recommended for massage contain a mix of natural ingredients coffee, vanilla, chocolate, ginger, clove, and also specific essential oils like lavender, frankincense, rosemary, and so on.

Not sure what you want for massage? Take a quick glimpse at our modern-day heros of massage here: Energy Healing Massage Oil. If you're looking to heat your muscles and release tension in specific areas of your like your neck, shoulders, and calves, then make sure to go with a massage oil infused with all the powerful healing ingredients that help in working on the root of the problem.

Can I Use Jojoba Carrier Oil Directly on My Face?

Jojoba oil is a natural emollient, which means it's a moisturizing oil," said Camille Chatterjee, a skin-care expert at Sally Beauty. "It's moisturizing, antioxidant-rich, and contains antioxidants to protect skin from free-radical damage." It's generally a good choice for anyone with dry skin and oil acne because it doesn't dry out the skin and can be safe on extremely sensitive skin.

But Jojoba is also an oil, and as an oil, it's not as elastic as, say, foundation or bronzer. "Even when applied right into the skin, oil is not water-resistant, so it needs to be worn to a skin-care regimen," said Chatterjee. "It might be a wonderful tool for a serum or highlighter or even a cheek tint, but applying it on the face as a makeup base will not provide any of those benefits. For that, you'll need to opt for mineral oil or coconut oil. Another benefit of using this is that it is extracted from the jojoba plant, which is a very healthy plant.

How do you make oil?

Feeling creative? Make your own body and massage oil! Familiarize yourself with the ingredients, and you’ll be able to adapt the oil to your needs, skin type, oil texture, and smell.

Once you know what is the best massage oil for relaxation or how do you make lavender oil, the possibilities become endless.

Mood-boosting and uplifting blend

Carrier oil: apricot kernel oil

Essential oils: frankincense, bergamot, myrrh

Calming blend for relaxation

Carrier oil: sweet almond oil

Essential body oil: rose, lavender, valerian, sandalwood

Natural pain relief blend

Carrier oil: grapeseed, jojoba

Essential oils: Roman chamomile, neroli, sandalwood, lemon

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Massage Oil for Couples?

The selection of the best massage oil for couples hinges on several factors, including personal preferences, skin types, and desired outcomes. Natural oils derived from plants are often favored for their therapeutic properties and sensory appeal. Among the top contenders, sweet almond oil stands out as an excellent choice for couples seeking an enjoyable and beneficial massage experience.

Sweet almond oil, extracted from almonds, possesses a balanced composition of fatty acids, primarily oleic and linoleic acids. These fatty acids contribute to its lightweight texture and easy absorption into the skin, preventing excessive greasiness while providing ample glide during massage. Additionally, sweet almond oil is rich in vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and maintain its overall health.

The oil's hypoallergenic nature makes it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or irritations. Its emollient properties nourish and hydrate the skin, leaving it soft and supple post-massage. Furthermore, the mild, slightly nutty aroma of sweet almond oil adds an inviting sensory dimension to the massage experience, promoting relaxation and emotional well-being.

When selecting a massage oil, it's essential to consider any allergies or sensitivities the individuals may have. Performing a patch test prior to use is advisable to ensure compatibility with the skin.

For couples seeking additional aromatic benefits, the option of adding a few drops of essential oils to the sweet almond oil can be explored. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or ylang-ylang are known for their relaxation-inducing properties, enhancing the overall soothing effect of the massage.

In conclusion, sweet almond oil emerges as a scientifically sound choice for couples aiming to enhance their massage experience. Its natural composition, lightweight texture, and skin-nourishing properties, combined with its pleasant aroma, contribute to a relaxing and enjoyable sensory journey. However, individual preferences and potential allergies should always be taken into account when selecting the best massage oil for couples.

One last thought

An evening with candles and relaxing music, a good warmup for muscles, and natural stress relief: massage therapy is all that and more.

To properly enjoy it, the massage products, in this case, massage oils, have to suit your needs and demands.

After all, you might want a good massage for your back pain or a simple soft baby massage for your toddler.

Whichever one it is, test and try the oils, choosing the best option for your skin and your needs.

The more comfortable you are with the massage oils; the better results the massage will provide. It is, after all, a powerful tool when it comes to your health and well-being.

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