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  4. 10 Best Massage Oils 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed
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10 Best Massage Oils 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed

A massage is a great way to loosen muscles, aid relaxation and soothe your mind. For couples or anyone keen to try massage, using oils not only makes the massage more comfortable and pleasurable, but they also smell great - turning the experience into a treat for the senses. Some oils come with added benefits for sensitive skin, stretch marks, and cellulite too. 


From Elemis and Weleda to Clarins and Burt's Bees, there are some gorgeous massage oils available out there. Whether you want to unwind, ease pain, or nourish skin during pregnancy - read on! Check out our informative buying guide and glide through our selection, ranked according to quality, value and function. Moreover, we have partnered with Dermatologist Felipe Partarrieu for reviewing and fact-checking the article so that we can deliver you the best information.

Last updated 27/03/2024
Felipe Partarrieu
Expert
Dermatologist
Felipe Partarrieu

Felipe Partarrieu is a dermatologist, who is GMC registered with a full licence to practise in the UK. Specialising in cosmeceuticals, facial skin care, and hair disorders, we worked with Felipe to bring you top quality information to help you make informed buying decisions and understand more about what goes onto your skin.

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Table of Contents

Fact-Checked & Approved by Dermatologist Felipe Partarrieu

Fact-Checked & Approved by Dermatologist Felipe Partarrieu

Felipe Partarrieu is a final year dermatology resident, who is GMC registered with a full licence to practise in the UK. Specialising in cosmeceuticals, facial skin care, and hair disorders, we worked with Felipe to bring you top quality information to help you make informed buying decisions and understand more about what goes onto your skin.

How to Choose a Massage Oil in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. To Improve Skin, Soothe Muscles or Aid Relaxation Choose Specific Massage Oils
  2. Scents Can be Enhancing, but Fragrances Should Be Avoided by Those With Sensitivities
1

Look For Massage Oils With Vitamin E to Treat Stretch Marks, Arnica to Sooth Sore Muscles, or Lavender to Relax

Look For Massage Oils With Vitamin E to Treat Stretch Marks, Arnica to Sooth Sore Muscles, or Lavender to Relax

Massage Oils With Almond Oil and Vitamin E Are a Great for Use Throughout Pregnancy

If you're going to be massaging a new mum (or you are one, and you've found a willing masseur or masseuse!), try an oil specially created with motherhood in mind. This could be one aimed at hydrating and softening stretch marks, such as those with added sweet almond oil (containing naturally-occurring vitamin E), a known skin healer, perfect for growing bumps. 


Sadly, there are no magic treatments that can prevent the appearance of stretch marks. Vitamin E oil is commonly used to prevent stretch marks, as research shows that vitamin E helps the skin become more elastic, allowing it to stretch further without damage.


Hoping cellulite will vanish? We think it looks fine! But if you're worried, massage oils containing jojoba, grapeseed and eucalyptus can help soothe this common condition and tackle unwanted fatty tissue, in collaboration with firm and regular massage. 

Arnica, Fennel and Mint Stimulate Blood Flow to Relieve Tired Muscles After Sports and Exercise

If you have a physical ache you'd like to work on in your massage, such as an injured muscle area or painful joints from arthritis, various plant-based ingredients can help. Strained your hamstring? Try a massage oil with arnica, which is believed to soothe sprains and muscle aches or one containing stimulating mint, eucalyptus, fennel, or cyprus-leaf oils. 


Arnica is used topically for a wide range of conditions, including bruises, sprains, muscle aches, wound healing, superficial phlebitis, joint pain, inflammation from insect bites, and swelling from broken bones. More recent studies suggest it may also be helpful in the treatment of burns so be on the lookout for arnica. 

Choose a Massage Oil With Lavender or Chamomile to Help You Unwind Before Bed

If you're simply looking to massage as a way to pamper and unwind, or to invigorate, there are several additions that can do wonders for both the body and the mind. For instance, zingy, bright and fresh fragrances such as lemon, lemongrass, mandarin and geranium will lift the spirits, pairing brilliantly with a vigorous, awakening massage.


In contrast, for an exquisitely slow, calming experience, scents such as neroli, lavender and chamomile are famous for their ability to ease tension, reduce stress, and help you drift off to sleep – ideal for high-pressured moments in life. 


To add to your pampering session, try our recommended non-toxic candles, body scrubs and facial cleaning brushes.

2

Aromatherapy Massage Products With Fragrances Can Enhance the Experience, but Should Be Avoided for Those With Sensitive Skin

Aromatherapy Massage Products With Fragrances Can Enhance the Experience, but Should Be Avoided for Those With Sensitive Skin

One of the key considerations when picking a massage oil is of course its scent, as this will strongly influence the massage experience. Some of the massage oils which are designed to be as pampering as possible, may include a long list of ingredients, including synthetic perfumes or fragrances


If you or your massage recipient does have sensitive skin or allergies, or you're not too fond of heavily perfumed products, it may be worth looking for a fragrance-free massage oil. Massage oils can be made up of anywhere from one to a dozen plant-based oils. These can include practically-unscented almond, wheatgerm and grapeseed oils, through to more nose-stimulating peppermint, cinnamon bark and geranium oils - so choose with care.

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10 Best Massage Oils in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used. 
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Neal's Yard

Aromatic Massage Oil

Neal's Yard Aromatic Massage Oil 1

£12.50

Low Mid

A Delectably Scented Massage Oil That Helps Nourish Your Skin

2

Weleda

Muscle Massage Oil

Weleda Muscle Massage Oil 1

£12.71

Low Mid

Soothe Aching Muscles With Arnica

3

Clarins

Relax Body Treatment Oil

Clarins Relax Body Treatment Oil 1

£40.00

High Mid

Relax and Indulge With the Benefits of Antioxidant-Rich Hazelnut Oil

4

Naissance

Sweet Almond Oil

Naissance Sweet Almond Oil 1

£5.99

Low

An All-Over 100% Almond Oil Treatment for Dry Skin

5

Gya Labs

Soothing Massage Oil

Gya Labs Soothing Massage Oil 1

£17.99

Mid

Ease Tight, Stiff Muscles and Soothe Tired Skin

6

The Body Shop

Thai Makrut Lime Firming Massage Oil

The Body Shop Thai Makrut Lime Firming Massage Oil 1

£19.89

Mid

Awaken Your Senses With Thai Citrus-Scented Massage

7

Weleda

Cellulite Oil

Weleda Cellulite Oil 1

£28.54

High Mid

Massage Into Skin to Ease the Appearance of Cellulite

8

Aromatherapy Associates

Revive Massage & Body Oil

Aromatherapy Associates Revive Massage & Body Oil 1

£42.30

High Mid

A Reviving Blend of Coconut and Jojoba Oils

9

Burt's Bees

Mama Body Oil

Burt's Bees Mama Body Oil 1

£6.66

Low Mid

A Light Oil With Vitamin E to Soften and Hydrate Skin During Pregnancy

10

Elemis

De-Stress Massage Oil

Elemis De-Stress Massage Oil 1

£40.00

High Mid

Lavender and Chamomile Massage Oil to Relax the Mind

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Neal's YardAromatic Massage Oil

Aromatic Massage Oil 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Aromatic Massage Oil 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.50
Low Mid
Reference price
£12.50
Low Mid

A Delectably Scented Massage Oil That Helps Nourish Your Skin

You can always rely on Neal's Yard to come up with the goods! A truly superior massage oil is always fragranced to perfection, doesn't use harsh chemicals, and is light on the fingers without being sticky or oozy – this product ticks all of those boxes. 


Lavender and mandarin team up with geranium to make this oil a scent-sational choice for vigorous or loving massages alike. Organic sunflower, almond and wheatgerm oils are also included, meaning skin cells get the VIP treatment too, be that for pregnancy, new mums, or anyone looking for a pamper. It's a winner! 

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No.2

WeledaMuscle Massage Oil

Muscle Massage Oil 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.71
Low Mid
Reference price
£12.71
Low Mid

Soothe Aching Muscles With Arnica

Suffering after an intense workout, or plagued by arthritis? Try Weleda's spectacularly popular massage oil enriched with the healing properties of arnica. The makers actually recommend use before or after exercise, so you can prevent as well as cure. 


Arnica is believed to soothe bruises, sprains and inflammation - the helenalin contained in the arnica plant may be the reason it is lauded by many as an effective pain reliever. Certainly, this natural massage oil is a big hit with online shoppers!

No.3

ClarinsRelax Body Treatment Oil

Relax Body Treatment Oil 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£40.00
High Mid
Reference price
£40.00
High Mid

Relax and Indulge With the Benefits of Antioxidant-Rich Hazelnut Oil

Pack your skin full of the nutrients of hazelnut oil while you slip into deep relaxation. Clarins have concocted a peerless massage oil by blending the antioxidant properties of the hazelnut with a wonderful combination of scents. 


Basil and geranium are highly uplifting, and when paired with calming chamomile you create a soothing scent that leaves you warm and reassured, so it's no wonder it's a popular pick for pregnancy. Ideal for a gently indulging massage where you'll drift into sleep and wake up renewed. 

No.4

NaissanceSweet Almond Oil

Sweet Almond Oil 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£5.99
Low
Reference price
£5.99
Low

An All-Over 100% Almond Oil Treatment for Dry Skin

A massage with this 100% sweet almond oil can't fail to be relaxing - or invigorating, as it really depends on the masseuse! But the key properties of this oil are its profoundly hydrating, skin-healing qualities. 


This is one of Amazon's best-selling oils, likely because it's very affordable, it's entirely natural and GMO-free, and it's cruelty-free and vegan. The joy of this oil is that it can function either as a simple oil for sensitive skins or as a base for the essential oil fragrance you love the best!

No.5

Gya LabsSoothing Massage Oil

Soothing Massage Oil 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.99
Mid
Reference price
£17.99
Mid

Ease Tight, Stiff Muscles and Soothe Tired Skin

This massage oil is ideal for anyone suffering from sports- or exercise-related injuries, as it harnesses the powers of peppermint and eucalyptus to soothe and relax overly-tensed, uncomfortable muscles. 


Add to that the delectable scent and calming properties of lemongrass and a dreamy touch of cinnamon bark, and you've got a fragrance combination that can take you from the massage table to nirvana in a matter of moments. 

No.6

The Body ShopThai Makrut Lime Firming Massage Oil

Reference price
£19.89
Mid

Awaken Your Senses With Thai Citrus-Scented Massage

The Body Shop does not disappoint when it comes to sumptuous fragrances! Here is a stimulating and firming massage oil that will really boost the mood and leave your muscles singing, as it is full of beneficial ingredients. 


Body Shop's Spa of the World range has plenty of treats, and this massage oil may include a fair few chemical ingredients alongside the natural, but it will still leave your skin firm, quenched and stroke-able. 

No.7

WeledaCellulite Oil

Cellulite Oil 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£28.54
High Mid
Reference price
£28.54
High Mid

Massage Into Skin to Ease the Appearance of Cellulite

If you're worried about the texture of your skin, an all-over body massage with this sweet-smelling oil could prove highly effective. Using 100% natural ingredients, Weleda's offering promises to firm and tone skin effectively.


Also wonderful for uplifting and refreshing, this oil is scented with invigorating grapefruit and cypress oils, so it lends itself to a bold, fearless massage that will sweep away the cobwebs and give cellulite the boot at the same time! 

No.8

Aromatherapy AssociatesRevive Massage & Body Oil

Reference price
£42.30
High Mid

A Reviving Blend of Coconut and Jojoba Oils

This glorious massage oil has a base of coconut and jojoba for a warm, exotic scent. Peach kernels, grapefruit, rosemary and juniper then add new layers of sweetness, making it a sensory treat, plus there are some muscle-soothing additions such as eucalyptus and mint, too. 


Whoever is giving the massage here should make the most of these bright fragrance notes with a vigorous, pummelling massage! This easily-absorbed oil won't leave you greasy but will moisturise to the max. In reference to its high price point, you may only want to use this on particularly arduous days though.

No.9

Burt's BeesMama Body Oil

Mama Body Oil 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Mama Body Oil 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Mama Body Oil 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£6.66
Low Mid
Reference price
£6.66
Low Mid

A Light Oil With Vitamin E to Soften and Hydrate Skin During Pregnancy

Burt's Bees have released this pleasant, 100% natural light-textured oil which is packed with vitamin E as well as sweet almond and lemon oils, making it a magical choice for a deeply hydrating massage on growing pregnancy bumps or for new mamas. 


It can also be used by itself as a nourishing body oil for dry skin types, but doubles as a massage oil for any natural skincare fan as it's pleasantly scented and leaves skin feeling impossibly soft and touchable. However, if you're looking for more muscle healing properties, one of our other oils may suit you better.

No.10

ElemisDe-Stress Massage Oil

Reference price
£40.00
High Mid

Lavender and Chamomile Massage Oil to Relax the Mind

This luxurious combination of fragrant essential oils is just perfect for a deeply relaxing massage, where your troubles will simply float away. Elemis use only the finest quality oils to bring you unrivalled relaxation, though there are a couple of added fragrances and perfumes, too so if you have sensitive skin, proceed with caution 


Lavender and chamomile, two of the best-loved ingredients for calming, are key fragrance notes here, with rosewood bringing a duskier base to the scent. Pamper yourself or a partner to indulgent perfection!

Tips on How to Give a Massage

Tips on How to Give a Massage
  • Warm your hands by rubbing them together, regardless of whether you will be massaging yourself or someone else. 
  • Agree the points to be touched / avoided during the massage - again either do your own mental checklist if massaging yourself or seek ascent from the person awaiting your handiwork. 
  • Hold approximately 1 tsp of the oil in your pre-warmed hands until it reaches body temperature and then begin to apply in gentle yet confident strokes. 
  • Less is more at first when applying oil - add more oil if needed, but not so much that your hands slip off the area you wish to focus on. 
  • Increase the pressure of the massage on a certain area gradually, until under your firm strokes you feel the muscles relaxing. 
  • Then move onto another area (by working your hands across the body to reach the new area), adding more oil if required - beginning again with lighter strokes and working to a deeper pressure gradually.
  • Once the massage has begun, always keep at least one hand on the recipient, so your touch is expected and pleasurable.

Written and researched by Annie Hopkins

Top 5 Massage Oils

No. 1: Neal's YardAromatic Massage Oil

No. 2: WeledaMuscle Massage Oil

No. 3: ClarinsRelax Body Treatment Oil

No. 4: NaissanceSweet Almond Oil

No. 5: Gya LabsSoothing Massage Oil

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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