Massage Lotion
Here are my personal preferences on massage lotions and creams. There
are several on the market that work well. There are also several to
avoid.
Massage lotions are a good alternative to massage oil because clients will typically feel less greasy after the massage.
For information on massage oil, click here.
Do not use:
Any kind of commercial hand or body cream that is not specifically
meant for massage. I am referring to the typical "massage" lotions you
buy in the supermarket. Even if it says "massage lotion", these
products are typically chock full of chemicals that it will most likely
dry out your skin or, worst case scenario, cause an allergic reaction
for the receiver. You never know what kind of sensitivities people have.
For example, I once had a client insist I use her low
quality, drug store brand massage lotion for a full body massage. After
the massage, I had a terrible rash on my forearms for two days!
Ironically, she had been complaining that she was
suffering from severe dry skin. This condition was probably caused or
aggravated by the lotion she insisted on using, which contained
petroleum (which is really bad for skin.)
Additionally, these cheap creams dry up so
quickly that they are challenging and uncomfortable to use for massage.
My hands stick to the body rather than glide.
It's not fun.
Here are some of my favorites:
- Biotone
This one is popular with many therapists and spas.
It's consistency is great to work with for most massage modalities (deep tissue, Circulatory, etc). There is a mild smell, but I've never had a client voice any concerns. And if you want to add aromatherapy essential oils,
you can add a few drops to an ounce of Biotone (the mild smell of the
Biotone itself will not interfere with the scent of the oils).
Biotone sells many types of cream. I like the "Dual Action" formula the best for its consistency and glide.
Biotone is also allergy tested and makes an excellent skin moisturizer.
- Arnica Cream / Traumeel
Both of these have an added anti-inflammatory agent which helps sooth aching muscles.
I don't use these too often with my
clients because it's usually not necessary and these creams are very
expensive compared to the others (and Biotone's dual action contains
Arnica already). Traumeel's consistency also isn't meant to be used
with massage but rather just as a topical treatment.
Traumeel, however, is the massage therapist's secret self-maintenance tool.
After excessive massage work (never a
good idea to over work, but it happens) Traumeel is excellent for
soothing sore arms and hands.
I also use it after I go skiing to relieve my muscles.
- Biofreeze
It's the non-greasy, chemical-free version of Vicks... and offers that cool/hot feeling and a nice massage glide.
Again, I don't use Biofreeze massage
lotion that much because most of my clients would rather avoid that
cool-tingle sensation. But for those who are seeking relief from acute
discomfort, this is a good choice if they don't mind the chill
sensation.
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