Every massage and relaxing bath cannot do without natural oils. If you want to perform a massage yourself or are planning to massage your loved one, this article will help you learn about the types of oils and their effects on the skin and body.

Types of massage oils

On the cosmetics market you can find many interesting proposals for massage oils. They are most often used in a 3:1 ratio with essential oil – one part essential oil and three parts base oil. In this way, we get not only a positive effect on the skin, but also the senses.

It is important to choose a base oil with which all massage movements can be performed in an easier way. When choosing a base oil, its composition is important. It should be as simple as possible, so natural, cold-pressed oils such as grape seed or sweet almond oil are a good choice. Additionally, they have a very natural and neutral scent, thanks to which the essential oil added to them will be more noticeable.

The natural properties of the base oils have a salutary effect on the skin, and will also allow for a more in-depth tissue massage. Sesame oil, olive oil and jojoba oil will work well for dry, severely dehydrated and dull skin. Among others, argan oil, which also has an anti-aging effect, has a firming effect.

Before using a particular oil, you can perform a short allergy test. This is important, especially if you have not massaged your skin with this type of product before. Apply the oil to a small part of your skin and wait for about 30 minutes. If your skin does not start to redden or feel burning, it is a sign that the chosen product is completely safe.

Natural oils:

• cold-pressed – these are vegetable fats that are obtained by natural methods, are not processed or processed very little, and have many nutrients, including unsaturated fatty acids;
• refined – refining is a process that purifies the oil and is done at temperatures as high as 300 degrees Celsius, unfortunately this process kills most of the nutrients.

Oils can also be divided by their absorption (drying) time:

• drying oils, suitable for oily skin – they have at least 50% polyunsaturated fatty acids in their composition;
• semi-drying oils – suitable for normal and dry skin – in their composition you can find from 20 to 49% of polyunsaturated fatty acids, they leave a light film on the skin;
• non-drying oils, ideal for dry and mature skin, have only 19% of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

A body massage oil will have a slightly heavier consistency than one used for the face.

Facial massage oil – which will be ideal?

Facial massage oils are a bit lighter than body oils and should be selected according to your skin requirements. Rose oil is ideal for skin prone to irritation – it is light, quickly absorbed, has a beautiful floral scent and also reduces redness. It is known for its caring properties – it helps in case of acne as well as severely dry and allergy-prone skin.

If you are struggling with acne, be sure to check out Pichta oil. It has an anti-inflammatory effect, helps fight acne, reduces skin imperfections and protects the skin from new skin eruptions. It should be used in a 1:1 ratio with another base oil. Interestingly, it can be used both for bathing, massage and inhalation.

Massage oil and essential oil – a perfect combination

Massage oil is very “likeable” with essential oils. Thanks to them, you will feel relaxed and relieved. Each oil has a different effect on our senses and skin. Energizing oils are: sage, eucalyptus, peppermint, orange, lemon, bergamot.

If you are looking for tranquility, add lavender, rosemary or patchouli to the base oil.

You can achieve deep relaxation by mixing the base oil with sweet orange, chamomile, palmarosa or sandalwood oil.

Properties of natural massage oils:

For skin that lacks moisture, avocado oil is ideal. It has vitamins: A, B, D, E, H, K and PP. It has regenerative properties, contains valuable fatty acids and maintains a proper water level in the skin.

Sweet almond oil is mainly intended for people with mature skin because it restores its firmness and is absorbed very quickly, providing the skin with vitamins A, E, D and B, which act as an anti-aging agent.

In summer, do not forget about jojoba oil – it is a natural plant product that moisturizes the skin and also protects it from adverse weather conditions.

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