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A 'base' or 'carrier' oil is used in massage to help the flow of the massage strokes and can have a very pleasant feeling. Some oils are better for massage than others. A good quality natural vegetable oil is used for its beneficial nutritional qualities and is absorbed by the skin. Mineral (petroleum based) oils cannot be absorbed and can leave a greasy, sticky film that will hamper the natural functions of the skin such as heat regulation and excretion (perspiration).

Aromatherapy (or essential) oils can be added to the base oil for additional therapeutic effects. Where possible I use (and supply to clients) organic cold pressed base and aromatherapy oils.  These are purchased from reputable suppliers to ensure that they are pure, from guaranteed sources and that the base oils have the highest nutritional content.
Cold Pressed organic vegetable oil (for example Sunflower oil) is good for the skin as it has nutritional benefits, containing essential fatty acids which can help with rashes, eczema & dry skin conditions.

For Baby Massage the IAIM recommend that a fresh pure grade unscented vegetable oil is used  for the following reasons:

bullet Babies have a strong sense of smell part of the bonding process - they need to smell their parent and not be overwhelmed by other scents.
bullet A Baby cannot tell you if they like a smell or not
bullet Any scent would mask the smell if the vegetable oil had 'gone off'
bullet Vegetable oil is a food, so is completely safe when baby rubs their eyes or puts their hand in their mouth.

General oil guidance

bullet Select the best quality pure organic oil available
bullet Oils need to be kept cool & stored away from light
bullet Supermarket oils are refined and are therefore not recommended
bullet Mineral oils are not recommended
bullet Always consult an experienced, qualified aromatherapist before using aromatherapy oils

For information on Aromatherapy oils visit The Aromatherapy Trade Council website

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Last modified: 02 August, 2011
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