The ultimate guide to massage oils

What are massage oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts that carry the aroma—and sometimes the properties—of the plants they come from. Because of their potency, they need to be diluted before they’re used on the skin.

Beyond their pleasant scent, different essential oils are believed to promote varied effects, such as calming nerves or giving a bit of morning energy boost.

Massage oils are usually a blend of these essential oils and something called a carrier oil. Carrier oils are neutral, gentler oils that dilute the concentrated essential oils to make them safe for skin contact.

You can buy ready-made mixtures, but blending your own lets you customize the scent and benefits to suit your mood or needs.

Choosing the right essential oils for your massage

If you’re thinking of experimenting with essential oils for massage, you might wonder where to start. Do you go with a fragrance you like? Or look at the specific effects?

Scent preference matters—a massage should feel indulgent, not irritating. But depending on the mood you want to set, certain oils can help reinforce it.

For winding down or easing stress, consider these:

  • Lavender: known for supporting relaxation and better sleep
  • Chamomile: promotes a calm atmosphere
  • Bergamot: can lift mood and encourage positive feelings

For a more upbeat or energizing massage, especially after a workout, reach for these options:

  • Peppermint: may increase alertness and awaken your senses
  • Eucalyptus: supports deeper breathing and refreshment

Our top massage oils for relaxation

Softening jojoba oil for all-round care

Jojoba oil—pronounced “ho-ho-ba”—has a light nutty scent and absorbs quickly without feeling greasy. It’s extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant and doesn’t clog pores, making it suitable for most skin types.

Use on its own for a simple moisturizer or mix with essential oils for a calming home massage blend. Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a small amount of jojoba oil in a bowl and stir.

Glowy grapeseed oil for a feel-good massage

Grapeseed oil, a byproduct of winemaking, is lightweight and unscented. It lends a subtle glow and is rich in vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, supporting healthy skin.

Its non-greasy texture works well as a carrier oil, especially if your skin tends to be oily. Blend five drops of essential oil with 10ml of grapeseed oil for massage. For a relaxing bath, try 4–6 drops of essential oil in 20ml of grapeseed oil and swirl into warm water.

Always patch test before use.

Versatile coconut oil for total nourishment

Found in many kitchens, coconut oil doubles as a body and hair product. Its medium-chain fatty acids help it absorb easily into the skin, keeping moisture locked in—especially helpful for dry skin types.

You can use a specialized coconut oil formula or reach for plain, additive-free coconut oil from your pantry. It’s light in texture and great for smoothing or moisturizing massages, or even as a deep-conditioning hair treatment.

Sweet almond oil for a holiday feel

Sweet almond oil, gently extracted from almond tree seeds, is a traditional go-to for softening skin and reducing water loss. It feels luxurious and has a mild scent that evokes sun-warmed Mediterranean markets.

It suits most skin types but can sometimes feel a bit greasy, so a little goes a long way. Be cautious: anyone with a nut allergy should avoid this oil entirely.

How to use massage oils safely

To make sure your massage experience is enjoyable and irritation-free, follow these tips:

  • Patch test first: try a small amount on the inside of your elbow or behind your ear, and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions
  • Avoid damaged skin: skip areas that are broken, inflamed, or sunburned
  • Always dilute essential oils: they can irritate or even burn the skin when undiluted
  • Know your allergies: be aware of your sensitivities—like avoiding almond oil if you’re allergic to nuts
  • Talk to your doctor if unsure: especially important if you have any pre-existing medical conditions

Which carrier oil should I use for my skin type?

Even though carrier oils are gentle, they’re not all created equal. Some are richer, some lighter, and what suits one person may not work for another.

If you have dry skin...

  • Look for: deeply moisturizing oils
  • Try: sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, or rosehip oil for their fatty acids and replenishing vitamins

If you have oily skin...

  • Look for: fast-absorbing, lightweight oils
  • Try: jojoba oil, hemp seed oil, or grapeseed oil to help balance natural oil levels without clogging pores

If you have combination skin...

  • Look for: blends that adapt to different skin zones
  • Try: jojoba oil for oilier areas like the T-zone, and richer oils like apricot kernel oil on drier patches

The final say

Found your favorite? The right massage oil can transform any self-care routine into something indulgent and restorative. Experiment with scents and textures—there’s no one-size-fits-all, and that’s the beauty of it.

Disclaimer

This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Curated by experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.

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