Massage Therapists Reveal The 8 Best Massage Oils on The Market

Laura Piteo, director of massage at Oasis Day Spa, has an arsenal of oils she rotates daily. Arnica oil is a star player in the lineup for its ”natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory benefits and great for giving your regular massage oil a therapeutic kick.”

You’ll find it challenging to stay awake after inhaling this blend of primary essential oils like sandalwood, frankincense, and myrrh. Fanny Duarte, lead massage therapist at SoJo Spa Club, says ESPA’s Body Oil is “perfect for coaxing both mind and body into deep relaxation. The anti-inflammatory properties of all three essential oils are also the perfect boost to a relaxing massage.”

Jojoba oil is used a lot in spas because it “closely resembles the natural oils in human skin,” Piteo explains. “It’s ideal for restoring moisture to dry skin.”

Stressed? Overworked? Give yourself a quick winter escape with oil packed with wintergreen, peppermint, juniper and marjoram. “This is a great calming massage oil that also encourages increased blood circulation,” Duarte says.

A great alternative for those who are extremely sensitive to scents and oil blends, Piteo says she reaches for grapeseed oil because it doesn’t have an overbearing scent and soothes sensitive skin. 

We use coconut oil to cook with but it works as a great massage oil as well because it’s a bit more slippery than other oils. “For deep tissue work, it’s not ideal,” Duarte explains. “But if you like that coconut scent, it’s a readily available, all natural and hydrating product to work with.”

The intoxicating smell smell of lavender draws you in at first, and then you slip into a deep sleep. That’s because lavender is a healing essential oil, Duarte says. ”I love giving relaxing massages and lavender is perfect for promoting relaxation and stress relief along with combating inflammation.”