They form the basis and can even stand on their own. They are selected according to the type of skin of the person being massaged, the properties and texture of each oil, and also the budget you wish to devote to it. The most common are jojoba oil, sesame oil, sweet almond oil and macadamia oil, as well as, to a lesser extent, the precious calophyllum oil. Others, even finer (more expensive too) are preferred for the face:argan, prickly pear, borage or rosehip oil. For a “dry” touch during your Californian massage, opt for jojoba or macadamia oils, they are suitable for all skin types, even the most delicate. Sweet almond and sesame oils, suitable for dry or irritated skin, offer a greasy, smoother feel. Calophylle oil, on the other hand, is intended for problem skin (acne or pimples) and is a reference in terms of inflammatory and circulatory problems. Its texture is oily, even thick, its smell a little spicy. On the budget side, it is a little above the other four. Having trouble choosing? Know that nothing prevents you from concocting a small personalized mixture!
Essential oils are always very trendy, and there is a good reason for that:they are irreplaceable! Concentrated with plant active ingredients, they contain the best the plant can offer, in a high degree of concentration. To be used sparingly and cautiously. As part of the Californian massage, their first merit is to create an olfactory atmosphere conducive to relaxation. You can therefore simply add a few drops of an essential oil whose scent you like (excluding peppermint) to your vegetable oil. If you are looking for a particular action, trust the advice of an aromatherapist, naturopath or pharmacist, they will be able to guide you through this forest of scents. We can already remember a few proven classics:fine lavender and rose geranium, beneficial both to the skin and to relaxation. One will be aimed more at “bloody” temperaments and the second at “nervous”. In addition, in case of joint pain, lemon eucalyptus will relieve you, as well as wintergreen in case of body aches. Finally, for the face, indulge yourself with a few drops of damask rose essential oil. Its price is exorbitant, but what a delight!
It is probably with them that you will make your first cut, and there are some great ones. The important thing, and this is valid for all the products mentioned, is to make a deliberate choice. Seek advice from professionals and consumers, test products, etc. But above all:choose organic quality products. During a Californian massage your skin absorbs as much oil as possible, so don't skimp on quality!