When giving or getting a massage, it goes a lot smoother (literally!) for both the person giving the massage and the person receiving the massage if some type of oil or lotion is used. Massage oils and lotions are specially designed for massages, as they take longer than standard lotions/oils to rub completely into the skin. They are great for moisturizing the skin, and they make it easier for the person giving the massage, as their hands glide easier over the body with the help of the oil or lotion.

Whether oil or lotion should be used is really a matter of preference. Nowadays, most massage therapy businesses carry high quality brands of both and let the massage therapists or the clients decide which they prefer. Some people do not like the thick, wet feeling that oil can have, while others find it soothing. But there are a number of different oils that can be used in massage, and some are lighter than others, which means they rub in quicker and don’t have that heavy, wet feeling that others do.

Aromatherapy bath oils can be added to carrier oils (which are just basic moisturizing oils, such as coconut oil) to enhance the experience. Not only are there a wide variety of scents when it comes to aromatherapy oils, but the different scents are believed to be connected to different feelings. For example, lavender oil is said to be calming and relaxing, while peppermint oil is said to help alertness and concentration.

Essential oils can be used in addition to massage lotions as well, if that is what is preferred. Massage lotions generally have a softer feeling than oils, and they do not leave the oily residue that many oils tend to leave. Many people prefer lotions for this reason. In addition, there are tons of different lotions out there, so it is easy to get unscented for those sensitive to scents, or to find a lotion that is scented with a mix of aromatherapy oils.