Massage therapists use several different massage therapy products to enhance the effectiveness and comfort of massage therapy sessions. For the most part, these are products that are basic to all types of massage therapy, although different massage therapy products are chosen depending on the type of massage and desired outcome. An overview of these products and their general purposes is outlined here.
Massage Oils
The purpose of oils used in massage therapy is primarily to make the body more workable. Massage oils make it easier for the massage therapist’s hands to glide smoothly and evenly over the skin, which make the massage both more effective and more comfortable for the client.
Many massage therapists choose to use safe, natural essential oils that also function to repair and soothe the skin, muscles, and soft tissues. Among the more regularly used essential oil massage therapy products are almond oil, apricot oil, grapeseed oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, and hazelnut oil. Holy oil is also frequently used as a carrier oil (one that delivers essential oils into the tissues) for these essential oils because its molecular structure is easily recognized and safely accepted by the human body.
In addition to providing natural relief, essential oils are also used in massage therapy as a means of relaxation; a number of different oils might be chosen as aromatherapy agents to enhance relaxation and reduce stress and tension.
Massage Lotions
Massage lotion is a massage product that is often chosen to replace massage oils in certain types of massage; massage lotions are effective massage therapy products which are chosen for deep-tissue massages when stimulation requires a non-slip technique with increased friction. Massage lotions are not greasy, so they allow the massage therapist to moisturize and deliver relief to tissues while providing the friction necessary for deep tissue work. The massage lotions used in massage therapy may include essential oils in the list of ingredients, delivered in a workable medium. These lotions are carefully balanced so as to provide optimal skin and tissue conditions; these are not your normal over-the-counter type moisturizing lotions.
Massage Creams & Gels
Massage creams and gels are still other types of massage therapy products used by massage therapists. These provide the “happy medium” between massage oils and massage lotions. Massage oils may provide too much glide, and massage lotions may absorb into the skin too quickly to elicit the desired effects. Massage creams and gels balance out between the two, providing a slowly absorbing, medium-glide moisturizer. As an added plus, massage creams and gels are used in smaller amounts, so there is no need to excessively apply product throughout a session.
Other Massage Therapy Products
In addition to functional massage therapy products like the oils, creams, gels, and lotions mentioned here, massage therapists often use other products to enhance the mood and overall massage experience. Candles, incense, stones, and relaxing music selections might all be employed.
Many massage therapists are happy to offer their high-quality products to their clients for sale. This allows the client to benefit from the products and continue the experience in the comfort of his or her own home.