15 Best Massage Oils In 2023, According To Massage Therapists
Relax and destress as you enjoy a massage with these quick-absorbing, nourishing oils.
Olunife OfomataLicensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist
Expertise: Holistic Beauty And Inner & Outer Beauty Systems
Experience: 14 years
Olunife Ofomata, founder and CEO of Sweeter Juice Skin, is an expert in the fields of esthetics, medical esthetics, and makeup artistry with over 14 years of experience. She is a licensed esthetician and certified makeup artist and obtained... more
Expertise: Skin & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Kirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and has 3 years of experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the... more
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After a hectic day, nothing can calm your body and mind better than a good massage. This healing technique has been in use for centuries and has a multitude of benefits. Using the best massage oil helps treat many ailments. It can strengthen bones, reduce stress, tone the body, and enhance sleep quality. Massage with these oils can also improve blood circulation and uplift your mood. These massage oils can provide hydration and protect the skin’s natural barrier as well.
You can use these massage oils from the comfort of your home. Essential oils like lavender and bergamot can help reduce anxiety and stress. Whereas chamomile and eucalyptus oils can help reduce muscle pain and inflammation. In addition, you need not head to a luxurious spa every time to get these benefits. In this article, we have listed the 15 best massage oils available on the market. Scroll down and check them out.
In This Article
15 Best Massage Oils In 2023 – Reviews And Buying Guide
Best Quick-Absorbing Formula:M3 Naturals Anti-Cellulite Massage Oil
This one is fast-absorbing and rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients with skin tightening, moisturizing, and regenerating benefits. A relaxing massage oil, this blend has grapefruit oil, which helps reduce the appearance of cellulite, and vitamin E rich grapeseed oil, which provides antioxidants to the skin. Also included in the blend are eucalyptus oil and lemon oil, which work to brighten complexion and keep skin soft and supple. This lightweight vitamin E oil with its silky texture is suitable for all skin types and improves tone skin and elasticity while promoting collagen production.
Pros - Lightweight and fast-absorbing blend
- Contains natural ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types, including sun-damaged skin
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this product a bit overpowering.
Best Non-Toxic:Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil
This 100% pure coconut oil is fractionated, a process that makes coconut oil more stable in its liquid form and less likely to solidify or harden, thereby increasing its shelf life. Coconut oil is an effective carrier oil for diluting essential oils and aromatherapy massage oils. Deeply hydrating and moisturizing, this versatile massage oil is rich in antioxidants and aids in soothing healthy skin rashes and irritations. Non-greasy and fast-absorbing, this one is suitable for all skin types and can be used on the face, body, and hair for intense hydration and nourishment.
Pros - Contains natural ingredients
- Non-greasy and fast absorbing
- Non-toxic
- Contains no additives
- Unfiltered and undiluted with no fillers
Cons
- Some might find the yellow color and scent of this product a bit unpleasant.
Best For Skin Hydration:Maple Holistics Sensual Massage Oil
Made of 100% pure oils, this one is made from a blend of jojoba oil, lavender oil, and sweet almond oil. With a soothing aroma, this luxury massage oil calms and relaxes the senses for an indulgent experience. Lavender aromatherapy massage oil helps soothe sore muscles, while jojoba oil intensely hydrates the skin. Suitable for sensitive skin, this blend is ideal for a neck, back, or foot massage and can be used either at home or at a spa for a decadent experience.
Pros - Contains natural ingredients
- Contains no artificial fragrances or additives
- Hypoallergenic for sensitive skin
- Ethically made with recyclable ingredients
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this product a bit oily.
Did You Know?Best Unscented Formula:Viva Naturals Sweet Almond Oil
This fragrance-free massage oil is made of 100% natural sweet almond oil, which keeps skin and nails soft and nourished. Fast-absorbing and unscented, this mild oil can be used as a makeup remover, massage oil, or as a carrier oil for facial scrubs and beauty blends. Rich in vitamin E, this non-greasy massage oil leaves the skin smooth, hydrated, and rejuvenated. For a soothing massage, mix this oil with a few drops of lavender oil for an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Pros - Contains 100% natural ingredients
- Non-greasy and lightweight
- Unscented formula
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be suitable for those with nut allergies
Best Dermatologically-Tested:Weleda Muscle Massage Oil
This oil has a blend of sunflower and olive oil, infused with arnica flowers and birch leaves, to help relax muscles after intense physical exercise. This massage oil for sore muscles improves skin elasticity with its invigorating and toning properties. Scented with soothing lavender and rosemary essential oils, this massage oil visibly enhances skin texture and provides relief from muscle soreness for a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. Suitable for use at home or a spa, this product is ideal for those who are physically active.
Pros - Free of parabens and phthalates
- Contains no synthetic fragrances and preservatives
- Dermatologically-tested
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this product a bit unpleasant
Best Vegan:Seven Minerals Fractionated Coconut Oil
This natural relaxing massage oil contains freshly pressed 100% pure coconut oil with no additives. Undiluted and unrefined, coconut oil intensely moisturizes skin and deeply conditions hair. Fast-absorbing and nourishing, this oil is ideal for a soothing massage or relaxing aromatherapy. This product is free of fragrances, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. This multipurpose oil can be used as a carrier oil, and can be massaged into hair for overnight therapy, which provides luscious, healthy locks.
Pros
- 100% pure and natural ingredients
- Contains no additives
- Unrefined and odorless
- Non-GMO and hexane-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this product a bit thick.
Best Skin Moisturizer:Sky Organics Sweet Almond Oil
This sweet almond oil for massage is 100% natural and works to moisturize and soften skin gently. This versatile oil can be used as a skin moisturizer, mixed with an essential oil for a massage oil, or be used in various DIY beauty blends. This organic massage oil is easily absorbed in the skin without leaving a greasy residue, while leaving skin feeling hydrated and rejuvenated. With no added fragrances, this product is ideal for those sensitive to strong scents. Suitable for all skin types, this massage oil is responsibly made using safe ingredients.
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Lightweight and non-greasy texture
- 100% pure and cold-pressed
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates
- Contains no silicones, dyes, and mineral oil
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this product a bit thin.
Pro TipBest Lightweight:New York Biology Ylang-Ylang + Ginger Massage Oil
This all-natural massage oil is made of a blend of pure, natural ylang-ylang and ginger to soothe tired muscles and stiff joints. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, this luxurious massage oil can be used for massage therapy, a scalp and back massage in a spa, or for a rejuvenating experience at home. Deeply hydrating, this product leaves the skin feeling soft and supple. Formulated without any artificial additives, this massage oil is suitable for all skin types for an experience that is relaxing and soothing to the deep tissues in the body.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
- Free of parabens and preservatives
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this product a bit overpowering.
Best For Dry And Flaky Skin:Handcraft Blends 100% Pure Grapeseed Oil
This multipurpose natural massage oil helps to cleanse and moisturize skin while providing soothing relief to sore muscles. Grapeseed oil improves scalp health and promotes hair growth and shine, making it ideal for a relaxing head and scalp massage. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, this massage oil can also be used as a carrier oil for diluting essential oils. With its deep cleansing properties, grapeseed oil helps protect skin against UV sun damage and deeply hydrates and moisturizes skin and hair, making it an ideal massage oil for those with dry and flaky skin.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Light texture and fast-absorbing
- Free of fragrances, preservatives, and chemicals
- Free of parabens, alcohols, and sulfates
- 100% vegan
Cons
- Might not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
Best Calming Formula:Cosmetasa Lavender Relaxation Massage Oil
This Cosmetasa Lavender Relaxation Massage Oil is specifically formulated for calming aromatherapy and spa-like treatment. It has a meticulous blend of high-quality oils like grape seed oil for skin elasticity, coconut oil for hydration and skin softening, geranium oil for rejuvenation and blood ciculation, orange peel oil for skin lightening, and anti-inflammatory frankincense oil for soothing cough and breathing troubles. It also has nourishing sweet almond oil, sunflower seed oil, and tocopherol to facilitate a relaxing massage. The lavender fragrance further enhances the appeal of the oil. The soothing formula comes with a 360-degree spin massage roller that enables it to glide smoothly on the skin and relax the muscles.
Pros - Lightweight
- Gentle
- Pleasant scent
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Non-GMO
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
Pro TipBest Nut-Free Formula:Brookethorne Naturals Refresh Therapeutic Massage Oil
This hypoallergenic massage oil contains a blend of essential oils and carrier oils to make it a one-stop solution for all your massage needs. Eucalyptus oil provides relief from joint pain and sore muscles with its anti-inflammatory properties, while peppermint oil provides a calming, soothing effect. Fractionated coconut oil acts as the ideal carrier oil with its moisturizing and hydrating benefits in a lightweight and non-greasy consistency. Made with all natural ingredients, this massage oil can be used in the spa, at home, for a chiropractic massage, or for an aromatherapy massage, which leaves you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Pros - Contains all natural ingredients
- Free of parabens and phthalates
- Hypoallergenic
- Nut-free formula
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some might find the scent of this product a bit strong.
Best Non-Comedogenic:Pursonic Fractionated Coconut Oil
This oil contains 100% pure and natural coconut oil, which has multiple uses with its moisturizing and nourishing properties. Suitable to be used in its pure form, or as a carrier oil for aromatherapy massage oils, coconut oil is non-greasy and lightweight, making it ideal for regular use. Naturally non-comedogenic, this massage oil can be used on the face, body, and hair, as a moisturizer, face wash, conditioner, makeup remover, or a sunburn remedy. When used for a head and scalp massage, coconut oil deeply conditions hair and prevents frizz.
Pros - Contains 100% pure and natural coconut oil
- Non-comedogenic
- Contains no additives or fragrances
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some might find the texture of this product a bit cloudy.
Best Non-Greasy Formula:Venu Anti-Cellulite Massage Oil
This natural massage oil contains a blend specifically designed to fight cellulite, break down fat, and eliminate toxins. Grapeseed, eucalyptus, and grapefruit oils are combined with refreshing lemon oil to firm, lift, and tone the skin. Lightweight and non-greasy, this massage oil deeply hydrates and moisturizes the skin. Effective against varicose veins, this oil is specially good to massage areas where fat tends to accumulate, and reduces the appearance of cellulite, dimples, and orange peel skin.
Pros
- Contains 100% natural ingredients
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Refreshing lemon scent
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some might find this product a bit difficult to absorb.
Best Organic:EO Body Oil
With the calming and soothing scent of lavender essential oil, this blend is designed to relax, nourish, and moisturize the skin. Made of cold pressed oils, the ingredients include safflower and sweet almond oil, which hydrate and soften the skin. Vitamin E and jojoba oil work to restore radiance and improve skin elasticity making this an ideal full-body massage oil. Suitable for all skin types, this one can be used after a warm bath or to repair and rehydrate skin after damaging sun exposure.
Pros - Contains certified organic ingredients
- Made of pure cold-pressed essential oils
- Contains no synthetic fragrances, artificial colors, and dyes
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and polysorbates
- Plant-based and cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be suitable for sensitive skin
Best For Sensitive Skin:Elemis De-Stress Massage Oil
This aromatherapy massage oil is formulated with lavender, sweet almond, and rosewood oil to help relax and soothe with its signature fragrance. This blend also contains chamomile oil, which hydrates and replenishes dry skin, and rosemary oil, which nourishes the skin. Designed to melt away stress, this oil is ideal for a massage at the end of a busy and stressful week. Formulated without any artificial additives and fragrances, this product is suitable for sensitive skin and can be used regularly.
Pros - Formulated with natural ingredients
- Contains no artificial colors, dyes, and mineral oils
- Free from parabens, phthalates, and SLS/SLES
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Might not be suitable for those who are pregnant or nursing
Now that we have looked at our pick of the 15 best massage oils in 2023, let us look at some things to consider when picking the ideal massage oil for your unique requirements.
How Do I Choose The Right Massage Oil For My Skin?
- Skin concerns
When picking the best massage oil for your skin, first start with any specific concerns you may have. If looking for relief from muscle aches and joint pains, pick a massage oil with ingredients like eucalyptus, sunflower, or olive oil. Those who want a calming aromatherapy massage experience should pick oils that are soothing and calming, like lavender, ylang-ylang, or ginger essential oil.
- Skin type
You must pick a massage oil that suits your skin type. For dry skin, you would benefit from the hydrating properties of coconut and sweet almond oil. For oily skin, choose oils that are lightweight and non-greasy. Jojoba oil is one of the perfect oils for oily skin. For sensitive skin, use gentle, safe, and fragrance-free oils so as not to irritate your vulnerable skin.
- Free of harmful chemicals
Chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates do more harm than good on your skin. Before you choose the best massage oils for your skin, look for ones that are free of any additives for the best results.
The Benefits Of Massage Oils
- Relieves stress
We’d all agree that a great way to end a busy work day is to get a massage. Massage oils penetrate deep into your skin, relieving muscle tension, helping you get a good night’s sleep. With their calming scent, aromatherapy massage oils provide a release from the many stressors of daily life and help you feel lighter in your skin.
- Reduces pain
Massage oils help to elevate the entire experience of getting a relaxing and soothing massage. Whether at home or at a spa, the right massage oil will help to hydrate and calm the skin, while providing relief from sore muscles, joint pains, and the tension we all learn to hold in our bodies.
- Other benefits
Massage oils also benefit those trying to fight cellulite build-up, varicose veins, edema, and swellings from injuries.
After a tiring day at work, all you need is a good massage to unwind and relax! For the same, you should use massage oils that can help you rejuvenate instantly. With the help of a good massage, you shall also be able to sleep better at night. The massage oils help reduce anxiety and stress while also reducing aches, pains, and muscle strains. These massage oils can help in skin tightening and improving your skin tone. They also boost blood circulation and promote the production of collagen. While choosing the best massage oils for a relaxing massage, you should avoid the ones that have overpowering fragrances.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Kirtana Divakar, the author, is a skincare enthusiast with a passion for hunting down and reviewing the best skincare products out there. She has done extensive research on numerous massage oils available on the market and narrowed it down to the best options in this article. To shortlist the products, she went through user reviews and looked closely at the formulations of each, noting down their pros and cons. The products listed here can provide numerous benefits and are formulated with safe ingredients to provide hydration and protect the skin’s natural barrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are massage oils safe during pregnancy?
It is best to consult your medical practitioner when using any new product during pregnancy. Generally, natural and organic ingredients are safe and effective and should not cause any harm. Always inform your masseuse if getting a massage when you’re pregnant.
Do massage oils clog pores?
If you are susceptible to acne, breakouts, and clogged pores, pick a massage oil with non-comedogenic ingredients like fractionated coconut oil. These work to soothe, calm, and moisturize the skin without causing breakouts. Non-comedogenic massage oils are designed specifically to benefit those with oily skin.
Do massage oils moisturize skin?
Massage oils with hydrating ingredients like coconut, jojoba, and sweet almond oil deeply moisturize skin. Apart from their relaxing properties, most massage oils help to replenish moisture for smooth, soft, and supple skin.
How long is massage oil good for?
Once the seal is broken, massage oil is good for six months.
Can I leave massage oil overnight?
No. It is not recommended to leave the oil for more than 4-5 hours as it may clog the pores and make your skin greasy.
Is massage oil good for your face?
Yes. However, choose an appropriate, lightweight facial massage oil to prevent breakouts on your face.
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