Most skin conditions are contraindicated for massage, either because the condition is contagious or because massage may aggravate the condition. In most cases, massage therapists are cautioned to either work around the affected area or avoid massage altogether. Exceptions to this rule are conditions like scleroderma and eczema, both of which are known to benefit from massage.
Step 1
Wash your hands. The oils used in massage can easily spread any bacteria and dirt on the hands so be sure to wash your hands before starting. Wash the entire hand and the wrists with simple soap and hot water, and be sure to lather for at least 20 seconds.
Step 2
Use light oils. The skin may be dry but may also not absorb oils well. Heavier oils and creams may sit on the skin, creating an unpleasant coating. Start with lighter oils, like grape seed, that absorb well and still provide a decent glide. Over time, as the skin becomes more supple, you can graduate to heavier creams.
Step 3
Avoid baby oil. Baby oil has fragrances and chemicals added that may irritate someone with a skin disorder. It is better to use a light, massage specific oil, such as Biotone, or a pure food-grade oil like grape seed. Also, avoid petroleum jelly, cooking oils or oils with heavy perfumes and dyes.
Step 4
Use light strokes to start. With conditions like scleroderma, the skin may be hard and immobile. With eczema, the skin looks thick and rough, but it is actually quite delicate. In both cases using too much pressure may cause skin tearing and irritation. Start with a feather-light touch then go progressively deeper as the skin warms up and becomes more supple.
Step 5
Use compression instead of rubbing. Rubbing causes friction and may contribute to skin tearing. With compression, you place the hands on the skin and press without moving the hands over the surface of the skin. You can also press and gently slide the skin over the structures underneath. This technique is useful for scleroderma because it helps restore mobility to the skin.
Step 6
Avoid broken and irritated skin. Both eczema and scleroderma may present with open lesions and other areas of broken skin. Touching and rubbing oil into these areas, could cause pain and infection. If you encounter an area of broken skin, work around the area or avoid the affected limb entirely.
Step 7
Use gentle manipulation. Skin disorders often affect the structures underneath the skin and even the joints, causing pain and stiffness. Gentle manipulation of the affected joints relieves stiffness and increases the mobility of the skin.
Step 8
Pay attention. Pay close attention to the verbal and physical cues of the person you're massaging and check in often. Some people are very vocal when experiencing discomfort, while others might just grin and bear it.
Things You'll Need
- Light massage oil or lotion
- A massage table or firm mattress
