Do you know what’s in your massage medium (lotion/oil/cream)? This is the question I ask the students who attend my Aromatherapy therapy trainings.

I often hear comments from therapists who have concerns and would like healthier options for their clients and themselves. Some haven’t realized that what you use on your clients you’re also exposing yourself to on a daily basis and at a much higher level from multiple treatments per day. After coming to this conclusion they often ask for different options.

Preservatives in Lotions & Creams
Many commercial lotions are packed with nasty preservatives. There has been a concern in recent years about what we put on our skin and it disrupting our natural skin’s microbiome. 

Did you know…Probiotics don’t just exist inside our gut. Our skin contains good bacteria that serve as protection from the outside world. However, if we don’t take care of it or worse destroy it by the use of harmful chemicals, this can lead to skin problems such as eczema. #  * 

Why do lotions and creams often contain preservatives? Preservatives are a common ingredient in these products to extend the shelf life. Lotions and creams contain water and when you add water to a product you’re at risk for funky things growing in there!

Many therapists choose to use lotions and creams for different reasons. Sometimes it’s the concern of getting oil on the carpet. Also, they are worried about not having enough grip and being too slippery. But there are ways that you can adapt when you find the right oil base for your practice.

The Use of Oils for Massage
This post is specific for the use of oils for massage.
You can’t get any more natural than just using a pure vegetable base oil. The traditional way to perform massage therapy has always been with oil.

For specific neuromuscular or myofascial therapy to Swedish massage, oils can be adaptable when used accordingly.

If you’re looking for more grip and less glide then all you need is a few drops. Oils can go a long way!

With so many available oils on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose. As a certified clinical therapist and bodyworker for almost two decades, I’ve had hands-on experience with formulation giving me the opportunity to utilize a wide array of natural oils for massage therapy treatments.

These natural oils are rich in nutrients such as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and more. By applying these oils to the skin we are providing “topical nutrition”.
You can  blend a combination of these natural oils to make the consistency suitable to your preference.
With proper storage conditions (cool, out of direct sunlight), you can expect a good shelf life with these oils.

When purchasing your oils look for cold pressed and organic (always a plus).