Collection: Massage Oil

Short answer: treat them as topical, not food. Most massage oils use cosmetic-grade carriers and aroma compounds that aren’t intended for ingestion. Even food-grade plant oils can become unsafe when blended with essential oils, which may irritate the mouth, oesophagus, or gut if swallowed. Additionally, some flavour-adjacent aromas (e.g., citrus, mint) can be concentrated and cause nausea or reflux if taken internally. If intimacy is the goal, look specifically for food-grade products labelled safe for oral contact; otherwise, keep standard blends external only. If accidental ingestion occurs, check the label, drink water (not milk, which can increase absorption of fat-soluble components), and contact a medical professional if you notice burning, vomiting, or dizziness. Bottom line: unless clearly marked as edible, massage oils are for skin only.

Used correctly, yes. Many carrier oils (grapeseed, sweet almond, jojoba, fractionated coconut) provide occlusive and emollient benefits that reduce transepidermal water loss and improve skin suppleness. Jojoba is structurally similar to sebum and often suits combination skin; grapeseed offers a light finish; sweet almond brings cushioning glide. The key is formulation: keep essential oils at conservative dilutions (typically 0.5–2% for whole-body use) to minimise irritation, and patch test if you’re sensitive. Choose fragrance-free if you have eczema or barrier impairment. Post-massage, wipe excess to prevent pore congestion under clothing. Consistent use can help the skin feel softer and more comfortable, but oils don’t replace targeted actives (like ceramides or urea) for barrier repair — they complement them.

Caution and simplicity win. In the first trimester, many practitioners recommend fragrance-free carrier oils only and gentle touch; avoid abdominal massage unless guided by a trained professional. From second trimester, low-dilution aromatics (often ≤0.5%) may be considered with practitioner input, but skip oils commonly flagged in pregnancy (e.g., high-thujone sages, pennyroyal, wormwood). Citrus top notes can be uplifting but may increase photosensitivity if expressed oils are used; steam-distilled variants minimise that risk. Always patch test, stop if you feel dizzy or nauseous, and prioritise positions that protect circulation (side-lying with support). As always, follow your healthcare provider’s advice and choose clearly labelled products.

Yes, when you select the right product and use it appropriately. Focus on neutral carriers (jojoba, fractionated coconut, grapeseed) and very low aroma levels, especially in the third trimester when smell sensitivity can spike. Avoid blends with aggressive rubefacients or “icy-hot” sensations; they can be uncomfortable and distracting. Keep sessions shorter, avoid deep pressure on the abdomen and certain acupressure points unless you’re working with a trained perinatal therapist, and ensure good ventilation. If heartburn or nausea is frequent, go unscented. Read labels carefully; if a bottle doesn’t disclose percentages or essential oil types, don’t guess. When in doubt, pick a pregnancy-labelled formula or use a pure carrier oil.

Yes — oils are combustible and can lower the flash point of fabrics. Spills on sheets and towels may not fully wash out with a standard cycle; residual oil can heat up in the dryer and increase fire risk. Best practice: pre-treat linens with a degreasing enzyme, wash hot with adequate detergent, and dry on lower heat or air-dry. Keep bottles away from open flames (candles, incense, braais), and don’t warm oils directly on stovetops. Use a purpose-built warmer or a bain-marie style water bath to gently bring them to skin temperature. Store tightly capped, out of sunlight. Respect for basic fire safety keeps relaxing environments — and laundry rooms — safe.

Massage oil is a topical blend designed to create controlled slip between hands and skin. It typically combines one or more carrier oils (e.g., grapeseed, jojoba, fractionated coconut) and, optionally, aromatic compounds. The formula aims for predictable glide, low tack, and easy clean-down. Unlike body lotions (water-based emulsions), oils are anhydrous and rely on viscosity and film-forming properties for performance. Some include antioxidants like vitamin E to protect the oils from oxidising. Good blends balance cushion (to protect skin) with grip (to keep techniques precise). If you’re scanning labels, look for clear INCI names, batch info, and suggested use. If you prefer no scent, choose fragrance-free; if you want aroma, keep essential oil dilution conservative for full-body work.

Proceed carefully. Facial skin varies widely, and heavy or comedogenic oils can clog pores. If you want facial work, choose non-comedogenic carriers (often squalane or jojoba) and avoid strong fragrances or mentholated profiles near the eyes. Many “body” blends aren’t optimised for the face — they’re richer and may contain aromas that can irritate delicate areas. Keep pressure light, avoid active breakouts, and wipe excess before applying skincare. If you regularly use retinoids or acids, patch test first; oils can temporarily soften the barrier, potentially increasing tingling from leave-on actives. For most people, a deliberately formulated facial oil or plain jojoba is the safer bet than a general body blend.

No. By definition, massage oil is oil-based and contains no water. That’s why it offers long glide and doesn’t evaporate quickly. If you prefer a water-based feel, look for massage gels or lotions — they’re emulsions (water + oil + an emulsifier) and rinse off easily, which some therapists prefer for quicker turnover. Oils can leave a light film; lotions typically absorb faster. There’s also a middle ground: balms (solid oils/waxes) that melt on contact and deliver adjustable slip. Choose the medium that suits your technique and clean-down preferences; if laundering is a concern, a lighter gel or lotion may fit better than an oil.

For most people, yes — it’s excellent for glide, comfort, and sensory relaxation. A well-formulated oil reduces friction, protects the skin during longer sessions, and can make techniques more precise. Some carriers bring added perks: jojoba for balance, grapeseed for lightness, almond for cushion. But “good” depends on context: if you dislike residue, pick a lighter texture; if you’re sensitive to scent, go fragrance-free; if acne-prone, avoid richer, occlusive mixes on the back and shoulders. Remember: oils aren’t medical treatments. They can support relaxation and skin comfort, but they don’t replace physiotherapy, targeted skincare, or clinical care. Choose intentionally, patch test, and let technique do the heavy lifting.

Body oils can be very good when used appropriately. They’re primarily designed to soften skin and lock in moisture after bathing. Some double as massage mediums, but not all have the right glide or working time for bodywork. If you’re choosing between a general body oil and a dedicated massage blend, check viscosity: massage formulas usually spread further and stay workable longer. Fragrance matters too — daily body oils might be strongly scented; for massage, go subtler to avoid overload. If you have very dry skin, a body oil after showering (on damp skin) traps hydration effectively. If you’re acne-prone, pick lighter, non-comedogenic carriers and avoid heavy occlusives on breakout-prone areas.

Use extreme care. Babies’ skin barriers are still developing, and fragrance (even natural) can irritate. For infant massage, many practitioners recommend plain, food-grade oils such as cold-pressed coconut or a cosmetic-grade mineral oil, used sparingly and patch-tested. Avoid essential oils on newborns and young infants; if introduced later, do so with very low dilutions and professional guidance. Keep hands warm, pressure feather-light, and sessions short. Never apply near eyes, nose, or hands (which go straight to the mouth), and stop if any redness or fussiness appears. If your baby has eczema or cradle cap, speak to a paediatric professional before applying oils — targeted emollients or medical advice may be more appropriate than general massage products.