Massage Oils, Lotions & Creams

Massage Oils, Lotions and Creams at Walgreens

Whether you're a professional massage therapist or an amateur who likes rubbing your spouse's back, strong hands and good technique are only the first ingredients of an effective massage. The right massage lubricant can make or break the relaxing experience as it controls the amount of glide and drag. Walgreens has a wide selection of massage oils, lotions, and creams to help you give the perfect massage.

Choosing a Massage Lubricant

The use of some sort of lubricant-be it oil, lotion, or cream-is essential when you want to give an effective massage. Choosing the product you like to use will come down to a personal preference based on your technique as well as the wishes of each individual client.

When deciding between a lotion, cream, or oil, you need to consider how much friction you want to remain between your hands and the skin of the person you are massaging. Massage oils tend to significantly increase glide, making them the right choice for techniques like Swedish massage, but they will make it difficult for you to target deeper muscles. Lotions and creams, on the other hand, tend to be absorbed by the skin more quickly, so there will still be some friction remaining. These products tend to be the best choice for sports and deep-tissue massages.

Other Considerations

One important consideration when choosing any massage lubricant is the potential for allergens to irritate your skin or that of your recipient. Many people have especially sensitive skin that can erupt into a rash unless you choose a massage product that is clearly labeled as hypoallergenic. Before massaging someone for the first time, you should go over the ingredients of your oils or lotions with them. This is especially important for people who are allergic to certain plants.

Aromatherapy Benefits of Massage

Aromatherapy works by exposing your nose to a variety of scents, which triggers certain reactions in your brain. The way your brain interprets certain fragrances will be different for everyone, but aromatherapy can help you recall pleasant memories from your past and even promote relaxation by causing certain chemicals to be released throughout your body. Scents have often been used to address anxiety, depression, headaches, fatigue, congestion, indigestion, and many more common ailments.

Most massage oils and lotions rely on a few signature scents for their aromatherapy benefits. Lavender tends to promote feelings of contentment and have calming effects. It is also often used to help with sleep issues. Rosemary is more uplifting. It may have a positive impact on your mood and help lead to a reduction in stress. Eucalyptus and tea tree oil are often used to help relieve sinus congestion and help you breathe easier. Used in combination with specific techniques, these ingredients can multiply the benefits of massage and relaxation therapy and leave your massage recipient feeling fantastic.

Once you select the type of massage lubricant that best matches your technique and the scent that will set the right mood, your massages will be much more enjoyable. Browse the selection of oils, lotions, and creams available from Walgreens, and you can find the ones that perfectly complete the massage experience.