Best Massage Oils for Massage Therapy in 2020: Treat Yourself to an At-Home Spa Day
When stress gets the best of you, it’s time to stop and think about what you can do for yourself – there’s no shame in putting yourself first!
So, drop whatever stressful thing you’re doing right now, and let’s find you the best massage oils for massage therapy – it’s time for you to have a spa day in the comfort of your home!
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- How to Use a Massage Roller Stick: Practical Tips and List of Benefits
Contents
- Best Massage Oils for Massage Therapy: Comparison Chart
- Massage Oils: Common Uses & Health Benefits
- 5 Essential Tips for Choosing the Best Massage Oils for Massage Therapy
- Best Massage Oils for Massage Therapy in 2020: Top 5 Reviews & Recommendations
- 1. Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil – Best Fragrance-Free Massage Oil
- 2. Honeydew Sensual Massage Oil – Best Massage Oil for Couples
- 3. Relax Therapeutic Body Massage Oil – Best Massage Oil for Muscle Stiffness and Soreness
- 4. New York Biology’s Clementine & Jasmine Massage Oil – Best Massage Oil for Reflexology
- 5. M3 Naturals Anti Cellulite Massage Oil – The Best Massage Oil for Anti-Cellulite Massages
- FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Final Verdict
Best Massage Oils for Massage Therapy: Comparison Chart
Before we dive into the exciting, fragrance-filled world of massage therapy, let’s take a moment to look at how the best massage oils for massage therapy performed in a side-by-side comparison:
| Our Top Picks | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Fragrance-Free Massage Oil | Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil
| 90% Great |
Best Massage Oil for Couples | Honeydew Sensual Massage Oil
| 80% Good |
Best Massage Oil for Muscle Stiffness and Soreness | Relax Therapeutic Body Massage Oil
| 90% Great |
Best Massage Oil for Reflexology | New York Biology’s Clementine & Jasmine Massage Oil
| 100% Fantastic |
The Best Massage Oil for Anti-Cellulite Massages | M3 Naturals Anti Cellulite Massage Oil
| 80% Good |
Massage Oils: Common Uses & Health Benefits
We put so much time and effort into picking the best products for our face and hair, but we rarely stop to think about what our body needs. A gentle, relaxing massage with the right type of oil now and then can do wonders for our overall well-being in more ways than one.
Okay, let’s talk purpose first:
Their central role is to reduce friction during a massage by lubricating the skin, but there’s more to them than that – they also nourish it, and in combination with the right essential oils, they can have a therapeutic effect on your mind, as well.
That said, here are some of the most amazing benefits of incorporating the best massage oils for massage therapy into your weekly routine:
- Let’s face it, there’s nothing more relaxing than a massage after a long day at work – and whichever massage oil you use, it will lower your stress levels.
- Carrier oils, such as coconut oil, can be incredibly nourishing – and combined with the soothing effect of some essential oils, they’ll leave your skin moisturized and silky smooth.
- Deep tissue massages performed with massage oils can help relieve muscle tension and stiffness.
- Whenever you start feeling blue, an oil massage containing pick-me-up essential oils such as ylang-ylang, peppermint, and lemon, to name a few, can be all it takes to get you out of the slump.
- Due to the stress-relieving effects, massage oils can also help improve your sleep quality and combat insomnia – chamomile and lavender oils are miracle workers in that regard.
5 Essential Tips for Choosing the Best Massage Oils for Massage Therapy
Now that you’ve learned about all these fantastic benefits, I’m guessing you’re eager to learn how to pick the best massage oils for massage therapy, so let’s get straight to it – here are five things you need to take into consideration:
Pay Attention to Density & Viscosity
First and foremost, the best massage oils for massage therapy must be easy to apply – what’s the point of having a relaxing massage if you’re going to struggle with getting the oil to glide across your body?
That’s why you should always pick oils that are not too thick (but not too runny, either) and have a relatively low viscosity so that they move along with the hand easily – heavy, sticky oils are a big no-no for massage therapy.
Absorption Matters, Too
Think about when and where you’ll be having the massages – will it be an end-of-day type of thing, where you won’t have to worry about the oil ending up all over your clothes?
And even if that’s the case, I’d still recommend massage oils that will absorb into your skin completely within a reasonable period – not too fast, so that you have to keep adding more of it throughout the massage, but not too long, either, so that you’re left feeling greasy long after the massage itself is over.
Scented Vs. Unscented
Here, it’s all a matter of personal preference:
While it’s true that scented massage oils have amazing aromatherapy benefits, not everyone will enjoy smelling like a full-blown lavender bush or freshly sliced lemon.
If you’re buying massage oil for home use, pick a scent that you’ll enjoy and find soothing. However, for professional use, I’d recommend fragrance-free massage oils that give you the option to add essential oils into the mix whenever the need arises.
What About Alternative Uses?
I get it, you’re here to pick the best massage oils for massage therapy, but have you considered the option of using said oils for other purposes, as well?
For instance, some massage oils do an excellent job at keeping your skin hydrated and silky smooth, so that they can be used as daily moisturizers, as well – and in some cases, as you’ll see later in the reviews, they can even become a vital part of your hair care routine!
Factor in Sensitive Skin & Allergies
Last, but not least, you need to factor in your skin type, as well as any existing allergies before you buy massage oils – getting a massage only to be left with red, itchy skin, or, even worse, a rash doesn’t sound very relaxing, does it?
If you have sensitive skin, it’s vital to pay attention to the carrier or essential oils that might trigger an unpleasant reaction, and if allergies are a serious concern, it’d be best if you opted for hypoallergenic massage oil.
Best Massage Oils for Massage Therapy in 2020: Top 5 Reviews & Recommendations
1. Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil – Best Fragrance-Free Massage Oil
(Via: amazon.com)
When you think about coconut oil, the thick and solid kind is probably the first thing that comes to mind – and it doesn’t sound like a massage-friendly option, does it?
Enter Majestic Pure – fractioned coconut oil in a liquid state that can be used for massages or as a part of your regular skin and hair-care routine.
The oil is fragrance-free, too, which only adds to its versatility – you can use it as is or throw your favorite essential oil into the mix for a more aromatherapy-like experience.
Plus, it’s budget-friendly!
Things I Liked
- Since this is fractioned coconut oil, it’s completely fragrance-free.
- The oil is 100-percent natural, and free of hexane, paraben, and sulfate.
- It absorbs into the skin reasonably quickly, leaving it smooth, without a greasy residue.
- Unlike regular coconut oil, it stays in its liquid state at all temperatures, which is super convenient.
- It’s incredibly versatile, and can be used on your skin, hair, lips – and more.
- You have the option to use it as a carrier for your essential oils of choice.
- It won’t stain your clothes and sheets.
- You get a lot of product for a very affordable price.
- It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Things I Didn’t Like
- The pump is poorly made, so the oil keeps leaking down the side of the bottle.
- Some people might experience itching or irritation, so it’s best to test the product first.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a multi-purpose massage oil that will work for a head-to-toe application, this one’s it – the Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil offers all the benefits of more expensive massage oils, but with a budget-friendly price tag!
2. Honeydew Sensual Massage Oil – Best Massage Oil for Couples
(Via: amazon.com)
Do you and your significant other find the smell of lavender soothing and relaxing?
Then you’re going to love the Honeydew Sensual Massage Oil – this almond, jojoba and lavender combo is the one thing no couple should go without, period:
The essential to carrier oil ratio is balanced out perfectly, resulting in an absorption rate that’s “just right” – not too fast, but not too slow, either.
It’s one of the easiest – and might I add, cheapest – ways to add a touch of sensuality into your at-home massage therapy.
Things I Liked
- It’s a 100-percent natural blend of lavender, jojoba and almond oils.
- The smell of lavender has a soothing effect on most people.
- The oil is free of additives such as silicone, paraben, and preservatives, and it’s hypoallergenic, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin types.
- It’s oily enough to help your hands glide while giving a massage, but doesn’t leave a sticky or greasy residue.
- It warms up quickly when applied to the skin, so it adds a slight warming sensation.
- The oil washes off easily, so it won’t leave any stains on your clothing or sheets.
Things I Didn’t Like
- Some might find the smell to be a bit overpowering.
- It doesn’t have a pump, so the bottle will get all greasy and slippery every time you use it.
- You have to pay attention to how and where you store it because it tends to leak.
Verdict: If you want to spice things up a bit, and treat your significant other to a gentle, relaxing massage – and maybe get one in return, too – the Honeydew Sensual Massage Oil is probably your best bet!
3. Relax Therapeutic Body Massage Oil – Best Massage Oil for Muscle Stiffness and Soreness
(Via: amazon.com)
Are you searching for a way to unwind after a long and stressful day at work?
Well, my friend, you found one – the Relax Therapeutic Massage Oil might be the perfect addition to your bedtime routine:
The combination of peppermint and marjoram essential oils helps reduce muscle tension and cramping while adding a slight cooling effect, while the lavender essential oil brings a calming effect into the mix to help ease anxiety and relieve stress.
I’d say it makes for a pretty relaxing experience!
Things I Liked
- It’s an all-natural blend of lavender, peppermint and marjoram essential oils in an almond oil carrier.
- Marjoram and peppermint oil can help treat muscle spasms and tightness.
- The oil is suitable for all sorts of massages – from relaxing, full-body ones to deep tissue and sports massage types.
- It won’t leave that sticky, oily residue on your skin.
- The formula is paraben and phthalate-free, and hypoallergenic, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin.
- The product isn’t tested on animals, which makes it cruelty-free, as well.
- Due to the peppermint oil, it can have a slight cooling effect.
- It has a subtle and very relaxing lavender scent, without being overpowering.
- It won’t stain your sheets or clothing.
Things I Didn’t Like
- The pump tends to leak, which could result in a potential mess.
- I wish the scent lingered on the skin a bit longer.
Verdict: When all you need is to unwind after a long day, reach for a bottle of Relax Therapeutic Body Massage Oil – the combination of peppermint, lavender, and marjoram will relax both your muscles and your mind!
Don’t Miss: Why Am I Sore After a Massage?: Getting to Know How Massage Works
4. New York Biology’s Clementine & Jasmine Massage Oil – Best Massage Oil for Reflexology
(Via: amazon.com)
You’ve heard about the numerous benefits of reflexology foot massages, and you’re thinking about it giving it a try?
If that’s the case, the New York Biology’s Clementine and Jasmine Massage Oil is a product you shouldn’t overlook – it’s a perfect addition to any relaxing or deep tissue massage, be it at-home or professional.
However, the benefits of this divine-smelling oil extend far beyond that of massaging – its soothing effect and lightweight formula that doesn’t leave a greasy residue make it a fantastic daily moisturizer, as well!
Things I Liked
- It’s an all-natural blend of jasmine and clementine essential oils.
- The oil is made with cruelty-free ingredients and doesn’t contain any paraben, sulfate, or preservatives.
- It’s suitable for relaxing and deep tissue massages, as well as reflexology foot massages.
- The lightweight, silky formula doesn’t leave a greasy, sticky residue.
- The oil goes on smoothly, so a little goes a long way.
- It has a natural, enticing smell that’s sure to arouse your senses.
- You can use it as a daily moisturizer, as well, because it does hydrate and soothe the skin.
- Considering the size of the bottle, it has an excellent price to value ratio.
- The product is formulated in an FDA-approved facility.
Things I Didn’t Like
- I feel like the consistency of the oil is a bit thin and runny, so you have to be careful with dosage.
Verdict: If you want massage oil that will cater to all your senses, the New York Biology’s Clementine & Jasmine Massage Oil is one you should check out – with its easy application and enticing smell, it’s perfect for several uses, including reflexology foot massages!
5. M3 Naturals Anti Cellulite Massage Oil – The Best Massage Oil for Anti-Cellulite Massages
(Via: amazon.com)
It’s never too early to start working on your bikini body – I mean, since you’re already looking into massage oils, why not throw in a little extra benefit of fighting off that pesky cellulite?
Thanks to the grapeseed oil, lemon, grapefruit, and eucalyptus, M3 Naturals is one of those miracle workers that will leave you feeling toned and moisturized all over – particularly in common “problem areas” such as thighs, hips, and buttocks.
Things I Liked
- It’s based on an all-natural blend of grapefruit, grape seed, lemon, and eucalyptus oils.
- The oil is infused with hydrolyzed collagen and apple stem cells for additional age-defying results.
- You can use it as a whole-body moisturizer, as well as for reducing the appearance of cellulite in your “problem zones.”
- It doesn’t leave a greasy, sticky residue, and keeps your skin feeling insanely soft and moisturized.
- It goes on smoothly, so a little goes a long way with this product.
- It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Things I Didn’t Like
- It has a strong citrusy smell, which some people could find a bit overwhelming.
- The oil has a thick texture and takes a while to absorb into the skin thoroughly.
- The bottle feels a bit flimsy and is prone to leaking, which can lead to an oily mess.
- The oil should only be applied on wet skin.
Verdict: If you’re looking to kill two birds with one stone, as they say, and not only reap the benefits of massage therapy but treat cellulite, as well, you have to try the M3 Naturals Anti Cellulite Massage Oil!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Before we wrap things up for today, I’d like to take a second to address some of the frequently asked questions about massage oils.
If you’re new to massage therapy, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were wondering about the following things:
Can you use essential oils for massage therapy?
You most certainly can – and should – use essential oils for massage therapy, but you need to take certain precautions when you do:
Essential oils, in their pure, undiluted form, can be extremely harsh on the skin, so they need to be blended with neutral, carrier oils.
Should you take a shower to wash off the massage oils after the massage?
While there’s nothing wrong with having a shower after getting a massage – especially if the massage oil left you feeling a bit too slick – I wouldn’t recommend it, at least not for a couple of hours after the massage.
That said, if you still opt for a shower, be careful about water temperature – hot showers might be your cup of tea, but they could leave you feeling dizzy.
Can you use regular body oils as massage oils?
While it might be tempting to skip the process of choosing and buying the best massage oils for massage therapy, and reach for a bottle of regular body oil, instead, you might want to reconsider that move:
There are a few crucial differences between the two, including their composition, how your skin absorbs them, and which benefits they provide.
And while you could use body oils from time to time for lighter massages, you should keep in mind that they won’t perform as well or apply as smoothly as massage oils.
Can you make massage oils at home?
Yes, you can – and it’s quite easy, too:
All you need is a carrier oil that will serve as a base (coconut, grape seed, and almond oil are all good options here), one or more essential oils (lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, jasmine, and lemon are only a few of the most popular choices), and a dark glass container with a tight lid.
Final Verdict
There’s one last question left to answer here – which one of these should you get?
You’ve seen that all these oils bring different benefits to the table, but if you’re looking for the best price to value ratio, then there’s no doubt in my mind about it:
The Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil and New York Biology’s Clementine & Jasmine Massage Oil are the best massage oils for massage therapy – for all your head-to-toe needs!
And whichever one you end up buying today, one thing’s certain – you’re going to love the experience, down to the last drop!
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-1 Comment-
The lavender-scented Relax oil looks like just what I need. I’ve mentioned before that I’ve been struggling with back tightness after workouts. I carry all my tension back there too – tend to scrunch up my whole left side if I’m tense. I’ve been thinking about getting a back massager and this oil looks like it will be perfect to go along with that.