The Best Massage Oils for Every Purpose and Occasion

There’s nothing better than a relaxing massage to help take you away from all of life’s turbulent moments. Sometimes a little rubdown can ease all of your tensions, get rid of your knots and leave you feeling rejuvenated. But the worst part about massages? Paying for them. Why not do it at home with the help of a loved one with the best massage oils instead? You’ll absolutely save a boatload of cash.

The best massage oils vary depending on what exactly it is you’re looking for. Some smell great, others give you energy, some have healing properties and some can even get you in the mood, if you know what we mean. No matter what it is you’re looking for, there’s like a massage oil for it. More recently, the best massage oils have evolved so much that there are even CBD massage oils to choose from if that’s your shtick.

From relaxing after a stressful day at the office to spicing things up in the bedroom, check out these gorgeous massage oils that will help you set the mood and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

1. New York Biology Ginger Ylang Ylang Massage Oil

BEST OVERALL

This affordable massage oil by New York Biology smells anything but cheap — with a unique and alluring aroma of ylang-ylang and ginger, this silky-smooth oil can even be applied to your scalp without feeling greasy. Ginger is a natural inflammation reducer, with multiple reviewers experiencing relief from arthritic symptoms, while ylang ylang is a mood booster and natural bacteria killer. This top-ranked massage oil also won’t stain your sheets, according to one happy customer.

2. Aesop Breathless Massage Oil

BEST RUNNER UP

Aesop always nails it when it comes to botanical-based skin products that have an incredible, never artificial scent. This best-selling one, dubbed their Breathless massage oil, might be a tad pricier than drugstore alternatives, but is commonly used by professional masseuses and infuses your skin with moisture and a citrusy, woody scent. A little goes away with this potent aromatherapy mix, which is filled with almond and jojoba essential oils amongst other ingredients blended in.

3. Gya Labs Soothing Massage Oil

BEST FOR BETTER BREATHING

Congestion is a common issue for many, no matter the seasons, and this invigorating massage oil will help open up those sinuses while providing stress relief. With a eucalyptus and peppermint base, the main hydrating agent in this blend is argan oil, which is also a suitable hair moisturizer, making it ideal for scalp massage. Thousands of Amazon reviewers praise its fantastic scent (especially its lemongrass undertones) and the oil’s ability to open up your breathing.

4. Cometasa Sensual Lavender Massage Oil

BEST FOR GETTING IN THE MOOD

Sometimes, the best way to get things started with you and your partner is by giving (or receiving) a sensual massage. This lavender massage oil from Cometasa has the perfect scent and feeling to start some romance in the bedroom. It goes on lightweight and even comes with a massage ball for added pleasure. All in all, this stuff just smells sexy and will take intimacy with your partner up a notch or two.

5. Relax Therapeutic Body Massage Oil

BEST FOR RELAXING

No one wants to feel stressed when being massaged, right? Wind down and get into it with the Relax Therapeutic Body Massage Oil. This bottle is filled to the brim with almond oil that’s scented with peppermint and lavender. Relieve any sore muscles and tenseness the day has created for at-home massages that feel professionally done.

6. Neurogan CBD Massage Oil

BEST CBD

CBD is all the rage right now. If you’re looking to feel calm and at ease during your massage (which, who wouldn’t?) Neurogan’s CBD Massage Oil might be perfect for you. It’s made with all plant-based ingredients such as lavender and CBD. Unless you’re highly experienced with CBD massage oils, we recommend going for the formulation with 1000mg of CBD, which is a milder (and more affordable) dosage for beginners.

7. Muscle Pain Massage Oil by Maple Holistics

BEST FOR JOINT PAIN

Alleviate aches and pains while giving your skin an anti-aging boost with this multi-tasking massage oil. It contains ingredients like lemon oil, basil and rosemary to promote a quicker recovery from swelling and inflammation.

8. Maude Burn No. 1

BEST CANDLE

Yes, some of the best massage oils in the world come from the realm of burning candles. This jojoba and soybean-based massage oil candle transform massages by adding a bit of heat to the mixture. It can be poured directly on the skin once melted for a safe, sensual massage to ease any tension.

Read More: Candles for Wax Play

9. Anti Cellulite Massage Oil Treatment by Buena Skin

BEST FOR CELLULITE

Get rid of unwanted cellulite with this decadent massage oil from Buena Skin. According to the brand, you’ll be able to firm, tone and smooth unwanted cellulite while giving your skin a healthy glow with continued use of this product.

10. ELEMIS De-Stress Massage Oil

BEST FOR STRESSED FOLK

It’s in the name, people. This de-stressing massage oil from ELEMIS works to nourish your skin and soothe your mind at the same time to help your whole self feel better. It uses a blend of gorgeous-smelling essential oils to match aromatherapy with each massage for an unforgettable at-home experience every time.

11. Weleda Arnica Massage Oil

BEST FOR SORENESS

Whether you had a rough day at the office or your workout was too hard on your body, you can relax sore muscles with this expertly recommended oil that works to help relieve stress and ease stiff joints and tight muscles. Folks even use Weleda to help avoid muscle-related injuries in the future.

12. Organic Edible Massage Oil for Body by RD Alchemy

BEST INTIMACY ENHANCER

Made in the USA, this edible oil was designed for fun and relaxation. Pick from four exotic flavors including bay rum love, juicy citrus, spicy vanilla and mint zip to add some spice in the bedroom without overpowering the senses.

Read More: Best Sensual Massage Oils

13. Brookethorne Naturals Renew Massage Oil

LEAST GREASY

While it feels like heaven to be slathered in massage oil and rubbed down, it’s not so nice to feel like you have a film of grease on you afterward. It’s also the worst when your clothes or bedsheets get stained by said oil. For a non-greasy massage oil that absorbs fast, consider this citrusy one from Brookethorne Naturals. Using a blend of carrier oils, this oil never leaves skin dry.

14. Native Atlas Omnis Universal Oil

MOST VERSATILE

Looking for an oil that can also be used on your hair or face? This elixir, touted by Omnis as a “universal oil,” can be used absolutely anywhere in your hair or body, with a jojoba and vetiver base. With unique oils, butters and botanicals in its ingredient list, this product is much more than just a massage oil — it’s an all-in-one nourishing skincare product for men and women that provides intense moisture when you need it most.

15. SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Massage Oil

BEST SMELLING PICK

Haven’t had a chance to travel recently? Transport yourself to a tropical island with this coconut and hibiscus oil. This multi-purpose product is advertised as a bath, body, and massage oil, and while it’ll keep your skin glowing with a vitamin-rich coconut oil base, what people really love is the lightly fragrant scent combination of all-natural coconut and hibiscus, as well as the texture, which glides rather than being runny.

16. Sliquid Massage Oil Cube 12-Pack

BEST SINGLE-USE PACKETS

Whether it’s for a massage or a precursor to a more intimate time with a partner, these mess-free single-use packets by Sliquid are ideal for travel, sexy time, and avoiding stains around your home or on your clothes. Made with organic oils and botanical extracts like green tea, this 12-pack comes in a range of aromas including unscented, so if you’re a commitment-phobe about scent, this is the perfect choice for you.