DIY Soothing massage oil

These days more than ever (at least in our lifetime), many of us are searching for ways to enhance our self care practices. On top of that we are trying to do so while mostly at home. Skincare treatments are often one of the go-to items in self care regimens (myself included!), but that tends to focus on the face. I thought I’d spruce up my own regimen by adding in massage and making my own soothing, natural massage oil.

My combination consists of two carrier oils and three essential oils. If you’re new to using essential oils, please be aware that they are not to be used directly on the skin. They are highly concentrated and need to be diluted in carrier oils first. Below I’ll give a breakdown of each oil and it’s uses followed by the recipe. 

Sweet Almond oil (carrier oil)
Almond oil is rich in nutrients and can be used as both a facial cleanser and skin moisturizer. Since we’re making a massage oil, here’s some of it’s benefits:

• Treats and moisturizes dry skin
• Skin smoothing properties thanks to vitamins A and E
• Treats and helps reduce the appearance of scars
• Contains anti-aging properties due to its content of omega fatty acids

Grapeseed oil (carrier oil)
Grapeseed oil can actually be used for cooking as well as for the hair and skin. Since we’re making a massage oil, here’s how it helps the skin:

• Improves elasticity
• Helps to even out skin tone
• Easily penetrates the skin allowing it to moisturize without leaving the skin oily
• Helps to reduce inflammation in the skin

Lavender essential oil
I’m sure you’re familiar with this one as it’s almost synonymous with the word calm (and for good reason!). Lavender essential oil is quite versatile and one of the more gentle essential oils (gentle enough to use on babies). It still should be diluted in a carrier oil first. The perks of this floral oil are plenty, including:

• Useful in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety
• Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
• Heals and prevents scars
• Useful in treating achy muscles

Ylang Ylang essential oil
Another floral oil, ylang ylang, packs quite a punch in both scent and it’s benefits. Unlike lavender oil, you may not want to be as liberal with it as a little goes a long way. It’s great for the following:

• Treating anxiety and insomnia
• Easing stress and tension
• Mood boosting
• Antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial properties (a mouthful, ha!)

Bergamot essential oil
This oil comes from the citrus fruit of the same name and has many uses. It’s used in perfumes, cleaning products and medicinally to name a few. It’s benefits include the following:

• Has antidepressant, antiseptic and wound healing properties
• Can be used for treating colds, anxiety and eczema
• Can be used as a natural insect repellent

Now that we’ve gone over some of the powerful advantages these oils provide, let’s get on to making that massage oil! In addition to the oils, you’ll need a container that can hold 4 ounces of liquid. I repurposed an empty bottle I had that previously had vitamin E oil. You can do the same if you have an empty bottle around or buy one from Amazon.

Soothing Massage Oil Recipe
Makes 4ounces:

• ¼ cup grapeseed oil

• ¼ cup sweet almond oil**
• 12-16 drops lavender essential oil***
• 10 drops bergamot
• 4 drops ylang ylang essential oil

**Please note: If you have a nut allergy, omit the almond oil and replace with more grapeseed oil.

***If you want more of a mild lavender scent, use 12 drops, for more use 16 drops.
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Instructions:

1. Funnel the carrier oils into your bottle first.
2. Add in essential oil drops.
3. Mix well and it’s ready to use! Massage into neck, shoulders, back, etc.

​The next time you’re treating yourself to a face mask, at home mani/pedi, etc...add a little self massage in there too to boost your zen. It’d also be fun to use with a partner or significant other as well. If you try it out, let me know in the comments below. Enjoy!
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