Massage Oil vs. Aromatherapy Oil: Which to Use?

Quick Answer

Massage oils are designed for glide and skin nourishment during massage, while aromatherapy oils (often essential oils) are used to influence mood and well-being through scent. For a massage that also offers aromatherapy benefits, choose a massage oil blended with essential oils, like the Nourishing Massage Oil from HighOnLove, or use a separate aromatherapy oil diluted in a carrier oil.

When you're looking to relax or connect with your partner, you might wonder whether to reach for a massage oil or an aromatherapy oil. Both promise to enhance your experience, but they serve different purposes. Understanding their differences can help you get the most out of your self-care routine.

Massage oils are formulated to reduce friction and nourish the skin, while aromatherapy oils, typically essential oils, are used to affect your mood and emotions through scent. Some products combine both, offering the benefits of a massage oil with added aromatherapeutic scents. This guide breaks down the key differences, tradeoffs, and how to choose the right option for your needs.

What Is Massage Oil?

Massage oils are designed to provide a smooth glide during massage, reducing friction on the skin. They often contain carrier oils like jojoba, sweet almond, or grapeseed, which nourish and hydrate the skin. Many massage oils also include added fragrances or essential oils for a pleasant scent, but their primary function is to facilitate touch.

For example, HighOnLove's Nourishing Massage Oil is blended with natural oils that melt into the skin, leaving it soft and subtly scented. It's clean, vegan, and cruelty-free, making it a safe choice for massage. Massage oils are ideal for couples looking to enhance intimacy or for anyone wanting a relaxing, skin-softening treatment.

• Look for massage oils with natural ingredients to avoid skin irritation.
• If you have sensitive skin, patch test a small area before full use.

What Is Aromatherapy Oil?

Aromatherapy oils are typically pure essential oils extracted from plants, such as lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint. They are used for their therapeutic scents, which can help reduce stress, improve sleep, or boost energy. Aromatherapy oils are often used in diffusers, added to baths, or diluted in carrier oils for topical application.

Unlike massage oils, aromatherapy oils are not meant to be used directly on the skin in large amounts because they are highly concentrated. They need to be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the body. When used correctly, they can enhance the massage experience by adding a calming or invigorating scent.

• Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin.
• Choose single-note essential oils like lavender for relaxation or peppermint for energy.

Key Differences at a Glance

The main difference lies in their primary function: massage oils are for physical glide and skin care, while aromatherapy oils are for scent-based benefits. Massage oils often contain a blend of carrier and essential oils, making them ready to use. Aromatherapy oils are concentrated and require dilution.

Some products blur the line. For instance, HighOnLove's Sugar High Massage Oil combines the benefits of a massage oil with a sweet, sensual scent, offering both glide and aromatherapy-like effects. Similarly, their Bath Oil | Sweet Lavender is designed for bath time, providing both skin hydration and the calming aroma of lavender.

• If you want a multi-purpose product, look for massage oils with added essential oils.
• For targeted aromatherapy benefits, consider using a diffuser with pure essential oils.

Tradeoffs to Consider

• Purpose: Massage oils focus on glide and skin nourishment; aromatherapy oils focus on scent and mood. Decide what you need most: physical relaxation or emotional uplift.
• Convenience: Massage oils are ready to use; aromatherapy oils require dilution and careful handling. If you want a quick, easy option, choose a massage oil with added essential oils.
• Skin Benefits: Massage oils often include carrier oils that hydrate and soften skin; aromatherapy oils may not offer the same level of skin care. For dry skin, prioritize a massage oil with nourishing ingredients.
• Cost: Pure essential oils can be pricey, but a little goes a long way; massage oils may need more product per session. Consider your budget and how often you plan to use the product.

Product Facts

• Nourishing Massage Oil: HighOnLove Massage Oil melts effortlessly into skin for a smooth, nourishing glide that hydrates as it pampers. Blended with natural oils, it leaves skin feeling soft, supple, and subtly scented. Clean, vegan and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. 120ml. This massage oil provides the glide needed for a comfortable massage while also hydrating the skin and adding a subtle scent, making it a great choice for those who want a simple, effective massage oil.
• Sugar High Massage Oil: HighOnLove Massage Oil melts effortlessly into skin for a smooth, nourishing glide that hydrates as it pampers. Blended with natural oils, it leaves skin feeling soft, supple, and subtly scented. 100ml. This option offers the same benefits as the Nourishing Massage Oil but in a smaller size, making it convenient for travel or trying out. Its sweet scent can also add a playful element to your massage routine.
• Bath Oil | Sweet Lavender: Turn bath time into a moment of pure bliss. HighOnLove Sweet Lavender Bath Oil pampers skin while filling the room with the calming aroma of lavender. Its luxurious blend of premium oils leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated. Clean, vegan and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. 100ml. If you prefer aromatherapy in the bath rather than during a massage, this bath oil offers the calming scent of lavender plus skin-softening benefits, serving a different purpose than a massage oil.

Which Should You Choose?

Best for

• Couples or individuals looking for a ready-to-use product that provides a smooth massage and skin hydration.
• Anyone who wants a subtle scent without the hassle of diluting essential oils.

Not for

• Those seeking targeted aromatherapy benefits for mood or sleep, who may prefer pure essential oils in a diffuser.
• People with sensitive skin who need to control exactly which essential oils they use.

In the end, the choice between massage oil and aromatherapy oil depends on your primary goal. If you want a relaxing massage that also nourishes your skin, a massage oil like HighOnLove's Nourishing Massage Oil is a practical choice. If you're looking to enhance your environment with calming scents, consider incorporating aromatherapy oils through a diffuser. For many, a combination of both offers the best of both worlds.