Using oil during a massage facilitates the manipulation of soft tissue and muscles. Without a lubricant, full-body and other gliding strokes are difficult to execute. Most massage therapists prefer to use professionally blended oil tailored to their needs. In a pinch or to save money, you can use pure olive oil or sunflower oil found in the kitchen.
Step 1
Survey the client, through an interview or intake form, about skin type and allergies. Use this information to choose the most appropriate oil. Oils with an almond or coconut oil base are best for dry skin, while jojoba oil or sunflower oil products help prevent breakouts on oily skin. Select professionally blended oils for the best results.
Step 2
Decant the oil into a bottle with a pump top, then place the oil into a holster and strap it to your waist. Keeping the oil close to you prevents breaking the continuity of the massage.
Step 3
Warm the oil before applying it to your client. Use an oil warmer or manually warm the oil, and your hands, by briskly rubbing your palms together a few times.
Step 4
Pump one to four squirts of oil into the palm of your hand. Dispense enough to create the glide needed. Never use so much oil that it drips from your hands onto the client.
Step 5
Start your massage with long strokes to relax the client and thinly coat her body with oil. Re-apply oil as necessary to accomplish your therapeutic goals and to maintain the comfort of the client.
Tips and Warnings
- For a special touch, add a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender, for aromatherapeutic purposes. Remove the sheets and wipe your massage table immediately after the oil massage. To clean the table, create a mild mixture of castile soap and water in a spray bottle. Coat the massage table with a light spray and wipe clean with a fresh hand towel or washcloth. Wash massage accessories in warm or hot water as soon as possible after the session, separately from everyday items. Use the dryer on a high temperature setting to kill germs and bugs. Dedicate the set of sheets and clothing used in this session for massage only, because the oil stains eventually go rancid and start to smell.
- Never use massage oil that contains an ingredient listed on your client's allergy list, because serious allergic reactions can occur. Allergic reactions to nut oils can be fatal.
Things You'll Need
- Massage table with sheets
- Oil
- Oil warmer
- Holster
- Plastic bottle with a pump top
- Plastic bottle with a spray top
- Castile soap
- Water
- Hand towel or washcloth
- Washing machine and dryer
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