Who loves oil?  Many clients are now starting to show a decided preference for oil  instead of lotion or cream. I wonder how much impact the onset of cooler weather has on that. Some people have dry skin and want to stay moisturized. Other clients have a lot of body hair. A few clients admit to just loving the smooth feel of the oil, and if it is warmed up, they love it even more. 

During the intake process, a client sometimes will appear a little puzzled when asked if they have any allergies. I suspect their first thought is medication allergies and they are trying to mentally review their medical history. However, there are still people with food allergies, like nuts, who are not aware that there are nut oils in some massage oils. These oils can cause the same type of allergic reaction when applied to the skin.

Sweet almond oil, a non-greasy oil, comes from almonds and obviously should be avoided if you have nut allergies. People with allergies to latex allergies may have problems with avocado oil, which is an excellent oil for dry skin. If you have iodine allergies, watch out for oils containing seaweed. Leave sunflower oil alone if there are allergies to the plant sunflower family.

Here are three oils which may work for those of you with allergies. Jojoba oil closely resembles that of your own skin and is appropriate for just about everyone.  Apricot kernel oil is great for those with dehydrated and sensitive skin. Sesame seed oil is a wonderful oil because it's a natural antioxidant. 

There is another oil I've heard about which is odorless, non-greasy, and hypoallergenic. Has anyone heard of Abramelin oil?  It contains myrrh, cinnamon, and calamus essential oils mixed with olive oil.  That blend sounds a little spicy to me with that cinnamon.  More research is in order, so for now I'll stick with my favorite oil - jojoba. 

You can keep using the oil you prefer too if it does not cause you any problems.  However, make sure you inform your massage therapist of all allergies as plant essential oils have the potential to irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction.

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