Body & Massage Oils FAQ
What can I use for sore muscles after working out?
Our most popular product for sore muscles is the Weleda Arnica Massage Oil. The time-tested formula blended with Arnica and Birch leaf extracts is the preferred choice of massage therapist worldwide. It helps restore tired, aching muscles before and after physical activity. As an alternative you can also use Dr.Hauschka Birch Arnica Body Oil.
Is body oil better than lotion for treating extremely dry skin?
Yes. Although using a lotion is better than doing nothing, a body oil (unlike a lotion) is water-free so all of the nurturing and moisturizing ingredients get absorbed into your skin to help transform dry skin into soft and healthy skin. Also try mixing a few drops of body oil into your lotion to give it additional hydrating properties. In Europe body oils are more commonly used, but in North America lotions tend to be more popular.
What's the difference between all of the different body moisture formulas?
When it comes to body hydrators, there are many different types to choose from. The main difference is the thickness of a product, which is determined by the concentration of plant oils versus the amount of water or other base ingredient such as Aloe Vera. Secondly, key ingredients are different and thus the therapeutic benefit changes from product to product. And finally, scent plays a key role in the decision.
Body milks and lotions are usually the lightest option as they have a higher water content and less oil. So these products tend to evaporate faster from the body.
Body creams (or crèmes) contain a much higher concentration of oils than milks or lotions to moisture more deeply.
Body butters typically contain high amounts of plant oils that solidify at room temperature but melt when they are heated on your body. Shea, Mango and Cocoa butters for example moisturize as intensely as a liquid oil but with the convenience of a solid product.
Body Oils are made up of a variety of base oils. These precious oils, extracted from fruit, nuts and seeds, have a composition similar to the natural properties of the sebaceous matter of your skin. So they effectively strengthen skin's natural defenses. They are rich in essential fatty acids, lecithin, vitamins and vital substances. Containing no water, they absorb into the skin (instead of evaporating) and deeply moisturize for an extended length of time.
When is the best time to use a body oil or lotion?
Ideally you should use a body lotion or oil after a shower or bath when the skin is still damp. This allows your skin to better draw in the moisturizing properties of the product. However these products are great for hydrating whenever you need it. And body oils in particular are perfect for soothing massages.
Can I make my own massage oil?
Of course. Begin with a base oil such as Jojoba, Almond, Avocado, Wheat Germ, Macadamia Nut or Apricot and blend in 10-25 drops of essential oil(s) per 100mL of base oil.
Here are a few recipes:
Calming - Get rid of nervous strain. (25mL of Almond and/or Jojoba Oil blended with 2 drops of Jasmine, 5 drops of Lavender, 3 drops of Neroli, 1 drop of Ylang Ylang, and 3 drops of Bergamot.
Exotic - An oriental blend of tantalizing ingredients. (50mL of a base oil blended with 2 drops of Rose, 2 drops of Patchouli, and 2 drops Sandalwood)
Energizing - A recipe for physical and mental fatigue. (50mL of base oil blended with 2-3 drops of Rose, 2 drops of Rosemary, 2 drops Juniper, and 3 drops Lemon
