The Best Oils for Body Massage: Natural Blends for Relaxation & Glowing Skin

There’s something timeless about the soothing power of touch. A massage not only relaxes your body but also calms the mind and helps your skin feel nourished and radiant. And at the heart of every great massage lies the perfect oil—one that glides smoothly, hydrates deeply, and indulges the senses with natural fragrance.

At Bath Body Shop, we believe in creating moments of everyday luxury through handcrafted, vegan, and natural oils. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or simply treat your skin to something beautiful, choosing the right massage oil can transform an ordinary routine into a spa-like ritual.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT OIL FOR A MASSAGE

Massage oils do far more than help your hands move easily—they’re an essential part of the therapy itself. Each oil type offers unique benefits depending on your skin type, needs, and mood.

Here’s why choosing the right one makes a difference:

• Hydration: Oils replenish moisture and improve skin elasticity.

• Aromatherapy: Natural scents influence mood—some calm, others energise.

• Texture: Lightweight oils absorb faster; thicker ones provide longer glide.

• Skin Compatibility: Different oils suit different skin types for best results.

Tip: Think of your massage oil as skincare meets self-care—it nurtures your body while soothing your mind.

The Best Natural Oils for Body Massage

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the most popular and versatile oils for body massage. It’s deeply hydrating, naturally antibacterial, and leaves the skin with a soft, silky glow. Because of its medium consistency, it offers excellent glide without feeling greasy.

Best for: Dry or rough skin, winter massages, and tropical-scent lovers.

Benefits: Deep hydration, smooth texture, and skin protection.

2. Sweet Almond Oil

Light, gentle, and rich in vitamins A and E, sweet almond oil is perfect for soothing sensitive skin. It absorbs well and helps reduce inflammation while nourishing dry patches.

Best for: Sensitive or irritated skin.

Benefits: Soothes irritation, restores softness, and boosts skin tone.

3. Jojoba Oil

Technically a liquid wax, jojoba oil closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum, helping to balance oil production. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and packed with antioxidants.

Best for: Oily or acne-prone skin.

Benefits: Regulates sebum, protects against breakouts, and improves elasticity.

4. Grapeseed Oil

Favoured by massage therapists, grapeseed oil has a silky texture that glides effortlessly on the skin. It’s rich in antioxidants and linoleic acid, which promote firmness and even tone.

Best for: Normal to oily skin types.

Benefits: Lightweight feel, antioxidant protection, and smooth finish.

5. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a traditional favourite known for its nourishing and healing properties. Its thicker consistency makes it ideal for deep tissue or therapeutic massages.

Best for: Dry, mature, or sun-damaged skin.

Benefits: Rejuvenates, deeply moisturises, and protects the skin barrier.

6. Rosehip Oil

Rich in vitamins C and A, rose hip oil supports skin renewal and improves texture. Its anti-ageing benefits make it a luxury choice for facial and body massages alike.

Best for: Mature skin or post-sun care.

Benefits: Reduces fine lines, evens skin tone, and adds a radiant glow.

7. Essential Oil Blends

For a more personalised experience, combine carrier oils with essential oils to harness aromatherapy benefits.

Essential Oil	Effect
Lavender	Calming, relieves stress & promotes sleep
Eucalyptus	Clears the mind, relieves tension
Peppermint	Cooling, helps soothe tired muscles
Geranium	Balances hormones & uplifts mood
Ylang-Ylang	Romantic, reduces anxiety

Tip: Always dilute essential oils with carrier oils before applying directly to the skin.

How to Use Massage Oils Effectively

To get the most from your massage oil, focus on how you apply it:

1. Warm the oil slightly between your palms before use.

2. Start slow—use long, smooth strokes to relax the muscles.

3. Focus on tension points like the neck, shoulders, and legs.

4. Let the oil absorb naturally—don’t rinse it off immediately.

A few minutes of mindful massage can work wonders for both body and mind.

Best Massage Oils for Different Skin Types

Skin Type	Recommended Oils	Why It Works
Dry Skin	Coconut, Olive, Rosehip	Locks in moisture and restores softness
Oily Skin	Jojoba, Grapeseed	Balances oil production without clogging pores
Sensitive Skin	Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel	Gentle and soothing, reduces irritation
Mature Skin	Olive, Rosehip	Promotes elasticity and a youthful glow

Tip: For an extra hydration boost, apply your oil after a warm shower or bath while skin is still slightly damp.

Why Choose Vegan & Handmade Massage Oils

Natural, vegan oils are better for your skin and the environment. They’re free from parabens, mineral oils, and artificial fragrances, relying instead on plant-based ingredients that nourish deeply and smell divine.

Benefits of choosing vegan & handmade:

• Cruelty-free and eco-conscious.

• Gentle on sensitive skin.

• Made in small batches for quality and freshness.

• Support sustainable, local artisanship.

At Bath Body Shop, our vegan massage oils are crafted with care in the UK using pure essential oils and natural carrier oils to deliver silky texture, captivating fragrance, and genuine well-being.

Our Favourite Massage Oils at Bath Body Shop

Explore our most-loved blends, crafted for every mood and occasion:

• Eucalyptus & Mint Massage Oil – Refreshing and invigorating, perfect post-workout.

• Lavender Serenity Oil – Calms your senses and prepares you for restful sleep.

• Rose & Vanilla Massage Oil – Romantic floral notes that soften and hydrate.

• Coconut Bliss Body Oil – Rich, tropical moisture for a silky, radiant glow.

Discover the full Massage Oil Collection to find your perfect match.

Turn Everyday Care into a Spa Experience

Massage oils aren’t just skincare—they’re an act of self-care. From soothing sore muscles to nourishing dry skin and calming the mind, the right oil can completely transform your wellness routine.

Whether you choose coconut for hydration, lavender for calm, or rosehip for radiance, Bath Body Shop’s natural massage oils help you create a spa-like experience in the comfort of your home.

Relax, restore, and reconnect—with nature’s best oils, handcrafted for pure, glowing skin.