Massage Oil
by nicesmile79 on December 30th, 2009
filed under Massage Oils
It’s confusing, right? There are literally hundreds of essential and basic oils (and their possible combinations!) to choose from that it is sometimes overwhelming when it comes to choosing the right massage oil for you. Even before you lie down on the massage table, you should first be able to choose the oil that is right for you so that you can fully enjoy the massage and that it will provide you with what you, as an individual, need.
Yes, a massage oil is important since it not only sets the mood of the massage, some oils also contain healing and therapeutic properties that may benefit you. It is also useful to know which massage oil has the tendency to give you a greasy feeling, as well as the oils that quickly turn rancid and oils that can irritate the skin and cause rashes.
Usually, when people create a massage oil, what they do is choose a base or carrier oil and an essential oil. A few drops of the more expensive essential oil is added to the carrier oil. This way, the oil used in the body is not too concentrated and will only deliver the right amount of substances that our bodies needs. Essential oils, by themselves, may prove to be too overpowering and concentrated.
With that, here are some base oils that you can look into when choosing a massage oil.
Apricot Kernel Oil. This is generously infused with vitamin E, giving it skin moisturizing and anti-oxidant fighting abilities. The vitamin E also helps to make sure that the oil does not quickly go rancid. This is also slightly more expensive than the other base oils. Another good thing about this massage oil is that it feels good on the skin and is not greasy. People who suffer from allergies to nuts can have this.
Sweet Almond Oil. This is a sweet-smelling oil that acts as an excellent carrier oil. The skin absorbs the oil quickly and will not give you a greasy feeling afterward. It is also very gently to the skin. However, this may not be suitable for those who are allergic to nuts.
Fractionated Coconut Oil. This kind of oil is light and feels fresh. It also has a long shelf0life and is actually quite affordable. It also has the added benefit of softening the skin and removing dry scales that the skin may have.
Jojoba Oil. This kind of oil is a favorite not just for massage oils but also for other skin and hair care products. It is actually not an oil but a wax. The skin absorbs this oil fairly quickly so that you may need to reapply more of the oil during the massage. But it is silky and smooth and can soften the skin effectively.
Avocado Oil. Because this is more expensive and heavier in texture, you can mix avocado oil with a lighter massage oil. Avocado oil is rich in vitamin E and has excellent anti-oxidant properties. However, those who are sensitive to latex may be uncomfortable using this oil.
Sunflower Oil. Light and fragrant, this oil is great for aged skin since it helps to moisturize and stimulate the production of essential fatty acids in the skin. It is also rich in vitamin E. The drawback with sunflower oil is that it has the tendency to go rancid faster than the other oils, so if you want this oil, buy a little at a time.
Olive Oil. Another great massage oil would be olive oil. Yes, this is not used just for salads and pasta, you can use this on your skin as well. Olive oil, however, is heavy, so it needs to be mixed with a lighter oil.
Grapeseed Oil. Odorless and light, this glides smoothly on the skin and leaves it with a satiny feel. This is infused with the essential fatty acid called linoleic acid. It helps in the restructuring and regeneration of the skin. It also helps to keep the skin moisturized.
Cocoa Butter. This is a rich and luxurious alternative. It does have a heavy texture and may need the addition of other lighter oils.
Shea Butter. Similar to cocoa butter, this is also rich and luxurious and may also need the addition of lighter oils. On its own, it does work well with the skin, but it is on the heavy side and may feel oily.
Sesame Oil. This oil should be blended with lighter oil to have a better consistency that is suitable for massage. However, ayurvedic massage makes use of this since it not only relaxes during massage, it can also help with problems such as dry skin, bloating, anxiety, constipation and poor blood circulation.
Whew! This is quite a list. But actually there is more! There are plenty of massage oils to choose from. All you have to do is maybe try a few and see which massage oil works best for you.
Container For Massage Oil
by nicesmile79 on December 15th, 2009
filed under Massage Oils
Ahhh… imagine yourself lying on the massage table, enjoying the soothing movements of the masseuse’s hands, the scent and the healing effects of the massage oil penetrating your skin. That’s what a massage feels like. Regardless of whether you get your massage in a spa or at home, a massage really feels fantastic. If you want to have regular massages at home, you can also make your own massage oil. There are plenty of essential and carrier oils for you to choose from. You can mix and match to suit whatever mood you want to be in. When making your own massage oils, you also need the proper container for massage oil.
Having the right container for massage oil will mean that your personalized oils will last longer, as it decreases the oils’ tendencies to become stale with time. The essential and basic oils (as well as the container for the massage oil) can be bought at health stores, as well as massage therapy store.
A container for massage oil will also keep the quality of the oil, ensuring that the oil it contains stays clean. With a container where you can securely seal and prevent leaks, you can now bring your very own massage oil anywhere you go. This way, you can enjoy your very own scent and healing properties that you need. Some oils have a moisturizing effect on the skin. Still other oils can rid your skin of dryness and rashes. Also, some oils can cool and relieve one of swelling and pain.
Now, how do you create your oils? First, read up on the properties of the different oils. Find out how they work on the skin. Then, test the oils – smell it and place a few drops on the back of your hand to measure how well or how badly your skin will react with the oil. After you have selected your oils, place the carrier oil of your choice inside the container for massage oil.
Add a few drops of your selected essential oil and then shake the bottle or container gently. Remember, it is important to use carrier oils sparingly. For one, if you use the concentrated form, you may risk skin rashes. Another thing, essential oils are generally more expensive than carrier oils. In addition, the carrier oils will effectively administer the healing and soothing effects of the essential oils. To save up on the cost of your massage oils, you can also try to buy the oils by the bulk and then just keep this inside a container that is specifically for massage oils.
Also, once you have the correct mix that you desire, you can also make a holster for your container for massage oil. This will help keep the massage oil bottle handy and close at hand when you are doing a massage. You can tailor the holster to fit your massage oil bottles, creating the perfect fit so that you can wear it on your waist, where you can easily reach for it. Using some fabric, make the housing for your bottle and then make the belt. And voila! You have a bottle for your massage oil and a holster to go with it. Happy massaging!
Massage Essential Oils
by nicesmile79 on September 22nd, 2009
filed under Massage Oils
Essential oils are oil extracts of aromatic plants and are used for many applications – massage oils, candles, perfumes, shampoo, and other beauty and health products. Essential oils have varying uses – to uplift, heal and relax.
There are actually over a hundred different kinds of essential oils. Here is just a short list
Apricot oil This oil nourishes the skin, moisturizing it and invigorating it so that dry and tired skin is revitalized. Apricot massage oil is also helpful in relieving inflammations and irritations.
Avocado Oil This oil can be used by itself or mixed with grape seed oil or almond oil. It is helpful for those who have skin problems such as psoriasis, sun damage or eczema. It is an effective moisturizer that nourishes the skin, softening it and giving it new life.
Cocoa butter This is very sensual and rich, with chocolate undertones. Yummy! It is used to moisturize and treat dryness and stretch markets.
Grape seed oil Infused with linoleic acid, Vitamin E, minerals and other proteins, grape seed oil is another great moisturizer. The linoleic acid regenerates our cell membranes and skin. You can use grape seed oil by itself or blend it with a carrier massage oil.
Jojoba oil Ho! Ho! Ho! For hohoba (as jojoba is pronounced). This is a popular moisturizer and can be readily seen as an ingredient for facial creams and shampoos. It can keep acne in check and works well with all kinds of skin.
Hazelnut oil Another excellent moisturizer, this one tightens the skin and keeps it toned and refreshed. It also promoted the regeneration of cells and the strengthening of the capillaries.
Sesame oil This essential oil is used extensively in Ayurveda massage, as it can detoxify and nourish the skin. It also relieves one of constipation, poor circulation, bloating, anxiety and dryness. It is best to blend this massage oil with a carrier oil as it is a thick oil which gives off a strong aroma and a greasy feeling when used on its own
Shea butter This oil has similar properties as cocoa butter and is composed of the natural fat from the shea tree’s fruit. It is an excellent emollient and moisturizer and is effective in treating acne, dry skin, dark spots, pigmentations, burns, scars, eczema, and wrinkles. It softens the skin and strengthens the hair. It is absorbed quickly by the skin.
Wheat germ oil This massage oil is particularly rich with essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It relieves and renews mature skin, making it look younger and tighter. It is used to treat stretch marks and scars.
Do-It-Yourself Massage Oil
by nicesmile79 on September 21st, 2009
filed under Massage Oils
Do you have a hankering for a massage in the privacy of your home? Do you want an effective massage oil but think that the ones available in the market don’t give you what you want or are just too expensive? Well, the good news is, you can actually make your own massage oil. With the right ingredients, putting together your personalized massage oil is as easy as ABC.
First, let us look at the basics. You will need essential oils and carrier oils for starters. Essential oils are concentrated liquids that are extracted from plants. These bear distinctive scents and healing qualities. However, it should be used sparingly, as it is highly concentrated. What you do is to mix it with a carrier oil so that you can make the most out of the essential oil.
Essential oils have a tendency to evaporate quickly. The carrier oils dilute the essential oils to prevent evaporation and also to help the skin absorb the massage oils. There are quite a number of essential oils and carrier oils you can choose from. Just some 8 drops of essential oil mixed with 6 teaspoons of carrier oil, blend thoroughly and voila! You have your very own massage oil. It is important to keep the right proportion. Never increase the amount of essential oil. Some of these are toxic when used improperly.
Some of the recommended essential oils include sesame oil, fractionated coconut oil, sunflower oil, St. John’s Wort and cocoa butter. You can also look into blending in some flower essences like chamomile flower or lavender flower essence.
Use a glass or plastic container to mix the oils. Close the lid tightly and then shake the container. Be sure to blend the oils completely. Then, carefully pour the mixture into smaller bottles or squeeze pumps for easy use. Then store the unused essential and carrier oils properly. The best way to store your oils is to place it in dark blue or dark brown colored glass bottles. This ensures a longer shelf life. Keep the cap screwed tightly and put these bottles in a place out of reach of children.
When touching essential oils, handle with care and keep away from your eyes. If it does come into contact with your eyes, put a few drops of sweet almond oil on the affected area. And essential oils are never to be drank or applied directly to the skin. When using the massage oil, place a few drops of it onto your palm and warm it up before you apply it to your skin.
Relaxing Massage Oils
by nicesmile79 on September 21st, 2009
filed under Massage Oils
There are different kinds of massages – ayurvedic massage, Shiatsu, Swedish massage, aromatherapy. The list goes on and on. These feature different techniques of kneading, gliding and rubbing. However, one thing these massage techniques have in common is that they make use of massage oils.
It is important to apply massage oils when doing your treatment, as these serve as lubricants to facilitate the movement of the hands and other massage implements over the skin. But massage oils also work together with the massage to give a sense of relaxation and peace. These massage oils are made from extracts of medicinal plants that also heal, moisturize, and nourish the skin – the largest organ in your body. And, depending on the kind of massage oil you choose, you can enjoy additional benefits such as relief for muscle aches and pains, smoother skin, a relaxed or alert mind.
Here are some of the massage oils that you can use to relax. These can be blended or used by themselves.
Cedarwood Massage Oil The smell is reminiscent of pencils and a bit of sandalwood. It is believed to be effective by providing harmony to the senses, making you feel “balanced”. It helps to keep one calm and at peace. Not only that, it has the added benefit of being able to heal infections in the urinary tract, promote healing to the kidney and bladder, as well as rid the respiratory system of phlegm.
Chamomile Massage Oil The oil has a great calming effect, especially for those who are feeling irritated and disagreeable. There are basically three kinds of chamomile – German, Roman and Moroccan. Roman chamomile is the one that effectively soothes – it does this by providing you with a more balanced nervous system. That is why chamomile is used for those who have PMS, as well as babies who need calming down. Chamomile is also useful for headaches, stress, insect bites and depression.
Sandalwood Massage Oil This oil also harmonizes the senses and is useful for helping people deal with stress, fatigue and chronic illness. Sandalwood is also beneficial to those who are suffering from urinary tract infections, cough, sore throat, asthma and bronchitis.
Lavender Massage Oil Not only does this oil smell sweet and great, it is also so calming that people put some drops of lavender and bundles of the dried leaves onto their pillow to help them fall asleep. It is a powerful antidepressant and a whiff of lavender can help to calm those frazzled nerves.
Massage Oil Popular Choices
by nicesmile79 on September 19th, 2009
filed under Massage Oils
There is nothing better than the feeling of having a thoroughly relaxing massage. It invigorates the mind and gives a sense of serenity and well-being. Much of this is thanks to the massage oil that you use. It’s key that you choose the massage oil that works best for you. You can try single oils and blended ones. There is virtually a whole collection of oils and below are some of the oils that we recommend you check out.
Sweet Almond Oil This sweet smelling massage oil glides smoothly and is easily absorbed by the skin. Extracted from the almond tree’s dried kernels, it is quite useful in soothing and softening tired skin. Its ability to help the skin absorb moisture makes it a useful moisturizer and carrier oil for other kinds of massage oils. The sweet almond oil also provides relief from muscle pain, as well as skin inflammation and irritation. It may not be for those who are allergic to nuts, though.
Apricot Kernel Oil It is smooth and fine textured and makes for a good carrier oil. It is rich in Vitamin E, as well as poly-unsaturated fatty acids. This kind of oil works great for sensitive skin, as well as mature and dry skin, especially the face. It leaves no greasy feelings since it easily gets absorbed by the skin. Although this is a bit more expensive than sweet almond oil, it certainly is worth it, since it lasts longer than other oils that tend to become rancid quickly. And since it is not nut-based, it is a great alternative to almond oil for those who are allergic to nuts.
Jojoba Oil Pronounced as ho-ho-ba, it is actually a wax and not an oil. It is extracted from the jojoba seeds and is proven as an effective moisturizer. It works the same way as your skin’s sebum or oil. It works to declog your skin’s pores and cleanse your face and skin from dirt and grime that is wedged into the skin. Jojoba oil is a popular ingredient for shampoo, hair care products and skin products. However, it is more expensive but the good thing about it is that a little of this goes a long way.
Grape Seed Oil Light and quickly absorbed by the skin, it works as an excellent skin toner and is used for skin problems such as acne. It is infused with essential fatty acids that our cell membranes and skin need. Grape seed massage oil also makes a great moisturizer.
These are just four of the more popular massage oils. Do give these a try – we are sure you will appreciate what these can do for you.