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What Are The Different Types Of Massage Oils?

beauty college AustinMany people know that a good massage starts with the right type of oil. Of course, there are different types of massage oils. It is important to choose the oil that is best for the massage technique you will be using, as well as the individual’s skin type. The two common oils used for massage are known as carrier oils and essential oils. The carrier oil will be used as the primary oil in the blend used for massage purposes. To the carrier oil, essential oils are often added. These essential oils can be used to serve a variety of purposes.

Types of Carrier Massage Oils

Carrier oils are typically made from the oil extracted from nuts and seeds. The particular carrier oil you choose can also have its own therapeutic benefits.

• Jojoba oil — jojoba oil is suitable for all skin types. It is not only easily absorbed, but it acts as an excellent moisturizer.

• Almond oil — this oil is frequently used as a massage oil as well as in aromatherapy applications.

• Avocado oil — this type of oil is frequently used for skin that is excessively dry, especially in the elderly. Its ease of absorption and soothing properties make it good for people with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Typically avocado oil is blended with another type of carrier oil for massage purposes.

• Grapeseed oil — grapeseed oil is high in linoleic acid, providing wonderful regenerative properties. It is also an excellent moisturizer as well.

Types of Essential Oils

Adding essential oils to a carrier oil can be an excellent way to customize your own blend. You can choose from a light oil such as grapeseed oil or a heaver almond oil and add eucalyptus, peppermint.

• Peppermint — peppermint essential oil helps improve circulation and provide relief for eczema and other skin problems. This essential oil also has anti-inflammatory properties.

• Eucalyptus — Eucalyptus oil provides cooling for the body in the summer and warmth during the winter months. Additionally, it provides antiseptic properties. It can reduce the inflammation associated with a muscle strain.

• Rosemary — this essential oil is excellent for muscular conditions, such as general muscle aches and pains. It can also be mixed with a carrier oil and used as an effective cellulite therapy as well as relief for fatigue, migraines and depression.

• Lavender — lavender offers relaxing benefits and the essential oil has been attributed to helping wounds heal faster and the prevention of scarring.

Types of Massage Oils based on Massage Techniques

The type of massage oil you choose will ultimately depend on the particular type of massage you will be using. As well, as you will develop a personal preference. For example, low-friction massage techniques, such as Swedish massage, will typically require a heavier oil like olive oil. These heavier oils are not absorbed as quickly and will provide a slipperier barrier for a more effective massage.

Lighter oils, such as grapeseed oil offer a great option for high-friction massages. Deep tissue massage and sports massage are excellent examples of high-friction massages. These lighter oils provide enough lubrication to allow easy gliding to prevent irritation. While they absorb quickly which prevents too much slipping when pressure is applied.

Infusing a carrier oil with essential oils can provide a healing, restorative or relaxing benefit. Aromatherapy combined with massage requires knowing the best types of massage oils for your particular needs.

2 thoughts on “What Are The Different Types Of Massage Oils?

  1. thanks alot keep up on encouranging on massage and its benefits you are helping many. I have learnt how to give massage and hope to learn more from u

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