Professional-Grade Massage Oils, Lotions, Creams and Gels

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All massage lubricants have their advantages and disadvantages. Selecting the right one for you is based on a number of factors including massage technique employed and client or therapist preference. Massage lotion provides hydration to the skin, often contains beneficial vitamins and mineral compounds, and can repair damaged skin. This lubricant is perfect for full body massage and in situations where fully moisturized skin is the main goal. Lotions however, also tend to contain more synthetic chemicals and feel cold when applied to the skin if not previously warmed.

Oils tend to protect the skin’s lipid barrier helping to retain moisture but will not add moisture; they offer extended glide time for longer treatments; and are simple to warm just by rubbing between hands. Oils are highly customizable. Therapists can easily create new client experiences just by adding a few drops of essential oils to their favorite massage oil. Conversely, oil’s slick quality can make for a slipping hazard if spilled and many clients are adverse to the greasy feeling some oils leave behind.

Massage gels are often considered the happy medium between oils and creams. They tend to be less greasy than oil but with only slightly less glide. With a higher consistency of water, gels are often used in deep tissue massage treatments or sports therapy where the therapist can generate friction or heat to penetrate muscles and relieve pain. As gels typically lack moisturizing qualities, creams or lotions are better alternatives for full body massages. Consider purchasing sample packets or small bottles of gel and other lubricants to compare products.

The words ‘creams’ and ‘lotions’ are often used interchangeably in common vernacular. To massage therapists, however, creams and lotions are quite different. Both lubricants are a mix of water and a thickening agent such as wax or emulsifiers; and both offer decent absorption rates. The difference is in the ratio of water to oil in each product. As massage creams contain a higher concentration of oil, they offer a longer workability and are better suited for soothing extremely dry skin and for treatments that require extended time. Lotions offer a shorter working time, and as a result, less glide, but quicker absorption rate.

Parabens are chemicals often used as preservatives in cosmetic, health and beauty products that extend shelf life and prevent harmful bacterial and mold growth. As some people prefer to limit their exposure to these types of chemicals, ‘paraben-free’ products that replace those chemicals with naturally derived alternatives are becoming increasingly popular.