Smart Shopping for Massage Oils

Massage is widely known to be a tool for reducing stress and tension, but recent research reported by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) also shows massage increases the immune system's activity level of the body's natural "killer cells," increasing the immune system's cytotoxic capacity, an overall benefit to the body's immune system. The AMTA further promotes massage as a means to improve your overall wellness and health.

If you wish to perform a massage at home, you must not forget to use massage oil. Massage oils help you release the tension in muscles and allow you to glide smoothly over the skin of your massage partner. When using massage oil, you will minimize the uncomfortable friction caused by skin to skin contact and create a relaxing environment for your partner to feel utterly pampered.

What to Look for

The best massage oils will not only provide a smooth glide for a relaxing, deep massage, but will also nourish your skin. Your skin is the largest organ of your body and, similar to your muscles and other organs, requires hydration and nourishment to function properly.

Since the skin will be absorbing the oil, choose oils that contain pure ingredients. Look for oils that contain natural ingredients including Vitamin E, Vitamin A, linoleic acid and oleic acid. Vitamin E, as a known anti-oxidant and healing agent, will supply nourishment to the skin cells. Vitamin A is reported to be a skin repairer and antioxidant. Linoleic acid eases muscle aches and joint pain, while oleic acid is a proven skin cell regenerator and anti-wrinkle agent.

The market for massage oils has grown exponentially in recent years and companies have developed a long list of available massage oil scents. If this is your first time purchasing massage oils, select a variety pack to introduce yourself to a range of scented oils. After experimenting with each scent, you can then choose a larger bottle of the massage oil scent you prefer.

Common Pitfalls

Often, buyers complain that lower-quality massage oils with unnatural ingredients are too greasy. These products are composed of cheaper materials and might not soak into your massage partner's skin as effectively. Instead of feeling pampered, you partner will be left feeling slimy and the oil might instead soak into and stain their clothing. The massage experience will be more enjoyable for both of you if you use light, non-greasy massage oil.

Finally, certain scents can be overpowering if large quantities are applied to the skin rapidly. When applying the massage oil, add small amounts as needed and you will likely find the scent to be less overwhelming.