Massage Oil, Lotion, Cream & Gel

The short answer is yes... However, while massage oil is necessary to lubricate the skin for Swedish massages, different massage techniques have different requirements. Some modalities are better with massage gel, others with massage lotion, while massage cream is suitable for all types of massages except for seated ones. Because seated massages are often performed on portable massage chairs in public areas, patients remain fully clothed, and no massage lubricant is used.

Deep tissue massage is a full-body massage that works best with a massage lotion or a massage gel. Both add a silky touch to the deep tissue massage and glide on the skin without feeling greasy or sticky. Since deep tissue massages focus more on pain relief than relaxation, the most suitable massage lotions and gels are often unscented. Some are also hypoallergenic or paraben-free. BIOTONE®, Bon Vital', and TheraPro™ deep tissue massage lotions, for instance, all base their popularity on having the perfect formula for minimum glide and deep friction, which recommends them for stimulating and neuromuscular massage techniques. Among gels, Soothing Touch® Deep Tissue Massage Gel stands out through its combination of cayenne, soothing white camphor, and cinnamon essential oils.

Massage therapists often choose unscented oil blends that they can customize for each session by adding a few drops of pure essential oil. The massage lotions most commonly used in salons and spas are also unscented and usually based on almond oil, aloe vera oil, grapeseed oil, safflower oil, or jojoba oil, with varying percentages of glycerin, alcohol, and purified water. Massage lotions are chosen based on texture and absorption level, depending on how much the therapist wants it to glide when applying a certain modality. Scented or cooling massage lotions are more popular in small 8 oz. formats that easily fit in bottle holsters. Unscented lotions are usually bought by salons and spas in larger bottles, of 1 or even 5 gallons. They are then divided into smaller 8 oz. lotion bottles with pumps or flip-top caps and customized with different fragrances.

The main difference between massage cream and massage lotion is that creams are thicker and absorb less quickly, but it is also worth mentioning that lotions, of all massage lubricants, are the least likely to cause irritations or allergic reactions. Due to their high absorbency and low glide, massage lotions are usually employed for deep tissue massages that release muscle tension, whereas massage creams are gentler and more suitable for pain relief associated with muscle injuries and soreness.

Massage gels have a light, pleasant texture, are more lasting than oils, and have the additional benefit of being non-greasy. They typically consist of a blend of oils, essential oils, waxes, and vitamin E. Some massage gels also contain sea algae extract, green tea leaf extract, vitamin A, and dimethicone — a silicon-based polymer that keeps the skin hydrated by forming a barrier that prevents water loss.

All massage lubricants have a limited shelf life and each type and brand comes with its recommendations. While not exactly an expiration date, shelf life can range from as little as 6 months up to 2 years, and it is important to take it into account to prevent allergic reactions. Salt and sugar scrubs also come with limited-time usage recommendations — usually, 18 months at room temperature. Bath bombs, bath salts, body washes, and facial cleansers have a similar shelf life but make sure to check the packaging and write down the opening date. To help them last longer, store essential oils, skin care products, lubricants, and other related massage supplies in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.