There are many different types of massage oils. Health care and beauty stores often carry massage oils, in addition to many on line retailers. Massage oils are often combined with essential oils in therapeutic massage. However, many massage oils possess their own therapeutic properties including jojoba oil, apricot kernel oil, sweet almond oil, sunflower oil and carrot oil.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a popular massage oil in the U.S. The jojoba plant is native to the South West region, making jojoba oil an affordable massage oil. Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax which has a long shelf life. As a massage oil, jojoba oil is suitable for all skin types and useful in treating sunburn, eczema, psoriasis and arthritis.
Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot kernel oil is extracted from the apricot tree, originally native to China but now found in many parts of the world, including the U.S. Apricot kernel oil is not produced in as large as quantities as some other massage oils and is therefore more expensive. However, as a massage oil, apricot kernel oil is beneficial for dry, mature skin and is suitable for use on sensitive skin. It is a nourishing massage oil which can also treat eczema.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is very similar to apricot kernel oil, but is more widely available and cheaper in price. Sweet almond oil is extracted from the almond tree which grows in California and the Mediterranean. As a massage oil, sweet almond oil is a nourishing oil which is suitable for dry and itchy skin. It helps to relieve the symptoms of psoriasis, dermatitis, sunburn and eczema.
Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil is a massage oil not to be confused with culinary sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is extracted from the seeds of the sunflower; the sunflower grows in many places in the world including the U.S. Sunflower oil is a light massage oil which is moisturizing and suitable for all skin types; it is useful in treating acne and other related skin conditions.
Carrot Oil
Carrot oil is used in many skin care preparations as it is an excellent oil for skin care. Carrot massage oil is extracted from the roots of the carrot plant and should not be confused with carrot seed essential oil used in aromatherapy. As a massage oil, carrot oil is beneficial in healing psoriasis, eczema and itchy skin. It is a useful skin tonic.
Other Types
Other types of massage oils include grape seed oil, argan oil, avocado oil, borage oil, hazelnut oil and evening primrose oil. Choose a massage oil which is beneficial for skin type and any other problems. Check the purity of the massage oil with the supplier to ensure that the type of massage oil chosen possesses actual therapeutic properties. Massage oils can be extremely beneficial, with or without the addition of essential oils.
References
- Len Price 1999 Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy and Massage
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