Massage Oil vs Lotion: Does the Difference Matter?

The lubricant you use for a client’s massage could be the difference between the client receiving the massage of their dreams or deciding never to return. With various massage oils and creams claiming to be the best massage oil and cream available, each containing certain properties that benefit the skin, how should you know when to use which type of product?

Here’s what we have to say:

The trick is to choose the lubricant that will benefit the client the most, depending on their needs. In this article, we will look at the differences between massage oils and creams, when to use which for specific benefits, and what the best massage oils and creams are.

Preliminary Measures to Take

As a preliminary step, it’s important for you, as a professional massage therapist, to ask the client about any allergies they may have. Pay attention to the client’s comfort level of temperature within the room, the massage technique that is being applied, and their hydration level.

If the client’s skin is dry, you must use more products. Also, note the receptivity of the massage oil or cream on the client to adequately comfort the massage therapist and the client. Following these recommendations is essential for providing a superior experience and mitigating potential liabilities that could lead to legal issues during the session.

What’s the Difference Between Massage Oil and Lotion?

Massage oils are naturally warming agents and are excellent for techniques requiring long, gliding strokes, such as Lomilomi or Swedish massage. Their molecular structure is smaller, allowing them to form a thin layer on the skin, which enhances the client’s ability to feel the temperature of implements like bamboo rods, hot stones, or crystal rollers. Oils provide deep moisturization for dry skin, absorbing until the skin can no longer take in more, leaving a slick surface for smooth, continuous strokes. This feature makes oils particularly effective in massages that utilize various tools, allowing them to glide effortlessly without tugging at the skin.

On the other hand, massage creams have a thicker consistency and create more friction, making them suitable for targeted, precise manipulations used in sports massages or deep tissue treatments. Unlike oils, creams evaporate on the skin, producing a cooling effect. They absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue, balancing moisturization with a clean finish that is beneficial if clients must resume daily activities post-massage. This rapid absorption also makes creams ideal for deep fascial work, as their greater molecular structure slows down the strokes, allowing for thorough manipulation of the fascia while reducing the risk of muscle fiber damage and therapist injury.

The choice between oil and cream in massage therapy depends on the specific techniques, tools involved, and desired effects on the skin, whether deep hydration, precise muscle work, or supplementary massage tools. Each medium provides distinct benefits that enhance the massage experience and meet the client’s therapeutic needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Massage Oil

When choosing a massage oil, several things should be considered to be sure of an optimal massage experience for the client:

1. Skin Type: Different oils suit different skin types. For instance, grapeseed oil is light and suitable for oily skin, while coconut oil is richer and better for dry skin.
2. Allergies: Always check for allergies before applying a massage oil, as some clients may have sensitivities to certain nuts or plant extracts used in oils.
3. Absorption Rate: Some oils absorb into the skin faster than others. Jojoba oil mimics the natural oils of the skin and is absorbed quickly, making it less greasy.
4. Viscosity: Thicker oils, like sesame oil, provide more friction and are ideal for techniques requiring deeper muscle manipulation. Lighter oils facilitate smoother, more gliding strokes.
5. Aroma: Some oils have strong natural scents or are infused with essential oils. Choose an aroma that complements the massage’s relaxing or revitalizing purpose.
6. Therapeutic Properties: Oils like almond and avocado oil are rich in vitamins and fatty acids, offering additional skin benefits such as improved elasticity and anti-inflammatory effects.
7. Shelf Life: Oils like jojoba have a longer shelf life, while others may need to be used more quickly or stored in specific conditions to prevent rancidity.
8. Client’s Preference: Consider the client’s preferences for texture, scent, and warmth to ensure comfort and enhance their overall massage experience.

Selecting the right massage oil involves balancing these considerations to match each client’s specific needs and expectations, enhancing the benefits of the massage session.

Massage Oils – Rich, Oily, Aromatic with Health Benefits

Massage oils are typically blends of carrier oils (like almond, jojoba, or coconut) and essential oils (like lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint). They are known for their smooth, luxurious glide, allowing long, flowing strokes during a massage. The rich, oily texture provides excellent lubrication and helps reduce friction on the skin.

Benefits:

• Lubrication: Oils create a smooth surface that allows hands to glide easily over the skin, reducing friction and preventing discomfort during massage.
• Hydration: Many carrier oils are rich in vitamins and fatty acids that nourish and moisturize the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
• Relaxation: Essential oils’ aromatic properties can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and create a calming atmosphere.
• Muscle Relief: Some oils, like those with arnica or ginger, may help to soothe sore muscles and reduce inflammation.
• Improved Circulation: Massage with oil can help to improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage, potentially reducing swelling and aiding in the removal of toxins.

Massage Creams – Middle Ground between Gels and Butters

Massage creams offer a balance between the richness of oils and the thickness of balms or butters. They often contain a combination of oils, butters, and waxes, creating a texture that is easy to spread but still provides some slip and glide.

Benefits:

• Versatility: Creams are suitable for a wide range of massage techniques, from light effleurage to deeper tissue work.
• Hydration: Like oils, creams can provide moisture and nourishment to the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.
• Absorption: Creams tend to absorb into the skin more readily than oils, making them a good choice for those who dislike a greasy feeling.
• Targeted Relief: Many massage creams contain ingredients like menthol or camphor that can provide a cooling or warming sensation, potentially aiding in pain relief.
• Non-staining: Creams are less likely to stain sheets or clothing than oils, making them a convenient option for at-home massages.

Types of Massage Oils

The types of massage oils vary vastly. The most common types include coconut oil, almond oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, argon oil, sesame oil, jojoba oil, apricot kernel oil, macadamia oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, and olive oil.

These oils are some of the more popular massage oils. Some massage oils blend a variety of oils together, and some are used solely by themselves.

Each oil contains different properties that benefit the skin:

• Coconut Oil: Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, coconut oil helps cool down the body with its rich, oily properties, making it ideal for soothing dry, irritated, or inflamed skin. Its antimicrobial properties also help protect the skin from harmful bacteria.
• Almond Oil: Almond oil is rich in vitamin E, fatty acids, potassium, and zinc, essential for maintaining skin health. It moisturizes the skin, improves its elasticity, and reduces signs of aging.
• Avocado Oil: This oil contains vitamin E and fatty acids, crucial for nourishing and moisturizing the skin. It also contains proteins, beta-carotene, and vitamins that help increase collagen metabolism and protect against UV damage.
• Grapeseed Oil: Known for its light texture and easy absorption, grapeseed oil is a great moisturizer and suitable for all skin types. Its antioxidative properties also help tighten skin and minimize the appearance of pores.
• Argan Oil: Rich in vitamins A and E, argan oil supports skin firmness and hydration. Its antioxidants help neutralize free radical damage, making it a popular choice in anti-aging skin treatments.
• Sesame Oil: With its rich linoleic acid content, sesame oil is a thicker oil that aids in warming and purifying the skin. It is beneficial for detoxifying skin as it penetrates deeply to nourish and rejuvenate.
• Jojoba Oil: Rich in vitamins A and E, jojoba oil mimics the skin’s natural oils and helps control bacterial growth, making it excellent for acne-prone skin. It also provides a barrier to external elements without clogging pores.
• Apricot Kernel Oil: High in fatty acids and vitamin A, apricot kernel oil is particularly gentle and perfect for sensitive skin. It hydrates and nourishes the skin, enhancing its elasticity and softness.
• Macadamia Oil: Abundant in omega 6 and 9, this oil is highly regenerative. It integrates well with essential oils, making it an excellent base for aromatherapy massages, enhancing skin strength and health.
• Safflower Oil: Rich in linoleic acid, safflower oil is effective at treating acne and breakouts by balancing the skin’s natural oils. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help calm irritated skin.
• Sunflower Oil: Packed with omega 6, sunflower oil is beneficial for treating conditions like dermatitis and enhancing the skin’s barrier function. Its emollient properties help the skin retain its moisture.
• Olive Oil: Known for its rich vitamin E content, olive oil acts as a potent moisturizer and is particularly beneficial for dry or aging skin. It also helps repair skin damage and stimulates skin renewal.

Most of these oils help to fight free radicals that contribute to premature aging and calm irritated, inflamed skin.

Types of Massage Creams

Massage creams have a larger molecular structure than massage oils and are unable to penetrate the epidermis as can smaller molecular products. They superficially lie on the skin, acting as an emollient and humectant on top of the skin.

What makes massage creams differ from one another are the botanicals, herbs or essential oils that are found among the ingredient list, acting solely as an aroma or with some additional benefits to the skin; and the richness of the cream.

Here are some common types of massage creams to consider for your massages:

• Moisturizing Creams: These creams often contain ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or aloe vera, which help to moisturize and nourish the skin. They are ideal for clients with dry skin or for massages focusing on relaxation and smooth movement.
• Cooling Creams: Formulated with ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus, cooling creams are used to soothe sore muscles and reduce inflammation. They provide a cooling sensation, which can be particularly refreshing and therapeutic.
• Heating Creams: These creams generate warmth upon application, which can help to increase blood flow, relax tight muscles, and relieve pain. Ingredients like capsaicin (derived from chili peppers) or camphor are common in heating creams.
• Aromatherapy Creams: Infused with essential oils, these creams combine the benefits of massage with the therapeutic properties of aromatherapy. Different oils can be used to promote relaxation, stress relief, or invigoration, depending on the client’s needs.
• Herbal and Medicinal Creams: Incorporating various herbs and medicinal extracts, these creams are designed to address specific health concerns, such as muscle recovery, joint pain, or skin conditions. Ingredients might include arnica, calendula, or tea tree oil.
• Hypoallergenic Creams: Made for sensitive skin, these creams are free from common allergens like fragrances, parabens, and artificial colors. They provide the necessary glide for massage without causing skin irritation.

Essential Oils for Massage

Essential oils are widely used in massage therapy for their therapeutic properties, improving the massage experience with their aromas and health benefits. Here are some popular essential oils for massage:

1. Lavender: Known for its calming and relaxing properties, lavender oil is great for reducing anxiety, stress, and promoting better sleep.
2. Peppermint: With a cooling effect on the skin, peppermint oil can help relieve muscle pain and is energizing, which makes it ideal for invigorating massages.
3. Eucalyptus: This oil is excellent for respiratory issues and clearing congestion. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it suitable for soothing tired muscles.
4. Tea Tree: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil is beneficial for skin conditions and can boost the immune system.
5. Frankincense: Often used for its ability to promote emotional balance, frankincense is also beneficial for skin health, reducing scars, and easing joint pain.
6. Chamomile: Chamomile oil is another calming oil, perfect for reducing inflammation and helping with sleep and relaxation during a massage.
7. Sandalwood: This oil is commonly used for its grounding effects, helping to calm nerves and increase mental clarity.
8. Lemongrass: With its fresh and clean scent, lemongrass oil is uplifting and can help improve circulation and relieve muscle pain.
9. Bergamot: Bergamot oil is uplifting yet calming, and it can also be used to relieve stress, anxiety, and skin infections.
10. Ylang-Ylang: Known for its relaxing and mood-lifting properties, ylang-ylang can also help lower blood pressure and increase the feeling of overall well-being.

These essential oils can be blended with a carrier oil, like almond or jojoba, to safely apply them to the skin during massage, enhancing the therapeutic benefits and sensory experience of the treatment.

Massage Lubricant & Your Client

Over-application and under-application can occur with either a massage oil or a massage cream. Each client is different and a massage therapist is fine-tuning the application of massage oil or massage cream with each extremity at any given time.

Clients vary due to their skin type, the amount of water they intake before the massage, whether they just stepped out the shower or have been soaking in their natural oils for some time.

Massage therapists initially performs a visual intake on the body size of the client upon undraping the extremity they are about to massage. From that visual intake, they mentally calculate the amount of medium they will need to massage and give themselves a dose of massage oil or massage cream for that extremity.

After the first stroke of application, the massage therapist will re-evaluate their dose of the medium and will add more, if needed, for more strokes.

Sometimes the application of the massage oil or massage cream will be too much, and the massage therapist will need to wipe away excess product from their hands and sometimes from the extremity of the client to create the right combination of pressure and gliding stroke on the fascia.

Whether the massage oil or massage cream is under-applied or over-applied, small alterations of adding a medium to the skin or taking a medium away from the skin is all that is needed for the massage modality that is being performed.

Amra Lear is a dual licensed massage therapist and esthetician. She started her career in 1999 at Canyon Ranch Spa Club at the Venetian and has since transitioned to a high-end resort on the Las Vegas Strip. She has more than 30 certifications in massage modalities and esthetics, knowledge of more than 100 modalities, and has been approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork since 1997.

Is it better to massage with oil or lotion?

There is no definitive “better” option as it depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the massage.

• Oil: Offers excellent glide and is ideal for long, flowing strokes and deeper tissue work. It’s also great for hydrating the skin.
• Lotion: Absorbs more quickly, provides less slip, and is often preferred for deep tissue or sports massage where grip is important.

Ultimately, the best choice comes down to individual preference and the type of massage being performed.

What are the disadvantages of oil in massage?

• Slippery: Oil can be slippery, making it challenging to maintain a firm grip during certain massage techniques.
• Messy: It can be messy and stain fabrics.
• Greasy: Some people dislike the greasy feeling oil leaves on the skin.
• Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to certain oils, especially essential oils.

Is it OK to use massage oil as a moisturizer?

Yes, many massage oils can double as moisturizers, especially those containing nourishing carrier oils like almond, jojoba, or avocado oil. However, it’s important to avoid using massage oils with essential oils on sensitive areas like the face, as they can be irritating.