Carrier Oils

Essential oils are too strong to be applied neat to the skin so when used in massage they should be mixed with a carrier or base oil, usually a cold pressed vegetable oil which has its own beneficial properties.

To obtain the correct proportion for a massage blend add a number of drops of essential oil equivalent to half the number of milliliters of carried oil. For example, for an average body size, pour 10 mls of carrier oil (or combination) into a bowl that is not plastic and add five drops of essential oil (or a combination of up to three oils)

Store massage blends in blue or amber glass away from sunlight to keep essential oils fresh. Vegetable oils should be used within 6-8 months before they turn rancid. Otherwise blend them with wheatgerm. Here are some of the oils most commonly used in an Asian tropical spa:

Almond
This vaguely aromatic oil is gentle and rich in proteins and vitamins. It is nourishing, light and softening for dry hands, eczema and irritated skin. It is a good lubricant, so blends well with other oils as an excellent massage base.

Avocado
This is a rich, heavy oil with high vitamin content. It is often blended fo a velvet-like consistency. It is also contains a mild sunscreen.

Coconut
Traditionally, this was the main carrier oil in tropical Asia because of its abundance. It is a thick saturated oil with its own distinct smell. It is remains stable for a long period and is particularly nourishing in hair treatment.

Grapeseed
This is an extremely fine and pure oil, so light it absorbs immediately into the skin. It is good for helping the essential oils penetrate quickly. It leaves a satiny, not sticky, coating.

Jojoba
This is a natural fluid wax rather than an oil. It has a fine consistency (similar to collagen) which effectively penetrates the skin. It reputedly nourishes hair and prevents hair loss.

Macadamia
The acids in this oil are natural components of skin sebum. It has a rich nutty aroma and consistency. Its emollient qualities make it a good all round moisturizer, particularly for dry and mature skin.

Olive
Rich in proteins and vitamins, this oil is rapidly absorbed by the skin although it has a strong aroma and is often blended with other oils. It is a naturally warming oil, so it is good for massage in cold weather or in treatments for muscular pains.

Wheatgerm
This is arich, dark oil, high in vitamin E but sometimes thought too heavy and aromatic to use alone. It is an antioxidant. It stabilizes essential oils and other carrier oils, making them last longer. It is also benefits scarring.