Just like modalities, natural oils have their own unique applications. Which is best for massage? For clients? For skin care?
Natural oils fall into general source categories, seeds and kernels, nuts, fruits and pits, vegetables, herbs and leaves, flowers, bark and wood, roots. While the latter are more applicable to aromatherapy uses, the first categories present many choices for use with massage and skin care. So, which to choose and why?
For texture, nut oils generally tend to lean heavier in viscosity, making them ideal for deeper, longer, more intense massages. In contrast, seed oils are generally lighter and quicker to absorb, making them suitable for modalities that require lighter touch and faster absorption.
Nut and seed oils have distinct differences in their composition and health benefits, largely due to the types of fatty acids they contain and their nutritional profiles. While this can be more important when cooking, their skin benefits become more important when applied to your client's skin, and yours. In this case, they have many similarities and can be used by multiple skin types!
Here are highlights on various natural oils for massage:
Jojoba Oil: Lightweight, quick absorbing, non-greasy. All skin types, sensitive or oily skin. Similar to the skin’s natural sebum, hypoallergenic. Helps treat skin inflammation and infection. It also has an abundance of minerals -- silicon, chromium, copper, and zinc -- and Vitamin E that protects and repairs skin. Great for general relaxation techniques, sports or facial massage.
Coconut Oil: Medium weight, slower absorption. Dry or combination skin. Highly moisturizing, conditions and moisturizes the skin without leaving an oily residue. It also contains Vitamin E to protect skin against ultraviolet light. Great for deep tissue or pressure techniques.
Almond Oil: Medium weight, smooth without being too greasy. All skin types or mature skin. Rich in vitamins A and E, keeps skin moisturized, reduces wrinkled appearance, and helps reverse sun damage with its vitamins. It's perfect as a carrier oil in aromatherapy due to its fine texture and easily absorbed nature. Great for general relaxation techniques. Fun fact: Almonds are seeds of a fruit, not nuts!
Sesame Oil: Heavier weight, slower absorption. Dry or mature skin types. Boosts skin health by promoting collagen production with zinc, reducing wrinkles with the antioxidant sesamol, and moisturizing with fatty acids and linoleic acid. Vitamin E acts as a natural sunscreen. For pain relief, its copper content fights arthritis inflammation. Great for deep tissue or pressure techniques.
Sunflower Oil: Medium weight and absorption. All skin types. Packed with skin-healthy vitamins! Vitamin A repairs skin, reducing wrinkles. Vitamin C provides antioxidant protection against aging. Vitamins D and E protect against free radicals, with Vitamin D boosting skin repair and Vitamin E maintaining moisture. Omega-6 treats skin disorders like eczema. Great for general relaxation techniques.
Grapeseed Oil: Very lightweight and fast absorbing. All skin types, sensitive or oily skin. A skincare favorite, rich in vitamin E and antioxidants to fight skin aging. It locks in moisture, without a greasy feel. Great for sports massage, facial, or relaxation.
Kukui Nut Oil: Medium weight, easily absorbed with non-greasy feel. Produced by cold pressing the seeds it is a natural moisturizer rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and E. It protects the skin from free radical damage and environmental elements like sun and wind. Great for general relaxation techniques including stone massage.
Avocado Oil: Medium/heavy weight, slower absorption. Ideal for dry, chapped skin. Rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin E, which help prevent wrinkles and skin aging. It’s moisturizing properties promote soft, supple skin, while sterolins boost collagen production and reduce age spots. Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties aid in healing and soothing conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Great for deep tissue or pressure techniques.
Apricot Oil: Light weight and easily absorbed. Ideal for all skin types, mature and sensitive skin. High in oleic and linoleic fatty acids with emollient properties which increase the level of hydration in the skin. Apricot oil also is rich in vitamin A, helping prevent lines and wrinkles, and in vitamins C and E, powerful antioxidants that help the skin retain its smoothness and elasticity. Great for general relaxation techniques.
Remember, with any oil or products, it’s a good idea to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction and do ask clients about any sensitivities they might have. Choosing the right oil can elevate your massage and client care. Nut oils, with their rich and heavier viscosity, are perfect for deeper, intense massages, while lighter seed oils provide quick absorption for a non-greasy feel. Each oil, whether it’s Jojoba, Coconut, Almond, or Grapeseed, offers unique benefits tailored to different skin types and needs.
Biotone offers a wide selection of massage therapy products featuring more than twenty specialized natural oils so you can find your perfect touch, making every session a rejuvenating experience.