Why do couples use massage oil?
Here’s a full guide explaining why couples use massage oils, how to use them safely, and how to choose a good one — including what to look for (and what to avoid). I also took a look at the NYX Collection massage & oils page to mention relevant points.
Why Couples Use Massage Oils
Enhancing Intimacy & Relaxation
Massage can be very intimate, helping partners feel closer by fostering physical touch, trust, and mutual care. The feeling of skin sliding over skin with a good oil adds to comfort and erotic / sensual aspects of the experience.
Reducing Friction / Discomfort
Oils reduce rubbing and irritation between skin contact points. Without oil, massage might feel harsh or uncomfortable. Oil provides slip so that massage strokes are smoother, more pleasant, and less likely to tug.
Soothing Muscles & Stress Relief
Hosting essential oils or plant-based carrier oils, massage oils can help relax tight muscles, increase circulation, reduce tension, and promote full-body relaxation. Aromatherapy oils (lavender, eucalyptus, etc.) can also calm the mind, reduce stress or anxiety.
Skin Care Benefits
Many oils hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin. They often contain vitamins and fatty acids, which can improve skin texture, softness, and healing. Regular use can help with dryness and stretch marks.
Mood & Sensory Experience
Pleasant scents, warm touch, and massage itself trigger release of endorphins, oxytocin, and often reduce stress hormones. All these help people feel “good” — more relaxed, more emotionally open, more comfortable in their bodies.
How to Use Massage Oils (Safely and Effectively)
Here are practical steps and tips:
Pick a comfortable, warm space:
Room temp should be warm to avoid chills once oil is applied.
Use a soft surface (massage table, bed with waterproof sheet, or firm couch) and clean linens/towels.
Warm up the oil:
Pour a small amount into your hands and rub until warm, or warm the bottle in a bowl of warm water. Cold oil can be shocking.
Apply gradually:
Start with light touch / strokes to spread the oil, then gradually apply deeper pressure if desired.
Always communicate with your partner: ask if the pressure feels good, boundaries, etc.
Use correct technique:
Use palms, fingers, knuckles, or even forearms for different pressures.
Smooth, flowing strokes along muscles help with circulation.
Avoid pressing directly on bones or sensitive areas unless known to be safe and desired.
Mind ingredients if you have sensitive skin or intimate contact:
Avoid essential oils that are highly irritating or not skin-safe.
Patch-test first: apply a small amount to inner forearm and watch for 24h for reaction.
Clean up gently:
After massage, wipe off excess oil with warm towel or bathe.
Moisturize if needed, and ensure area is dry if going into bed or intimate contact soon after.
Storage and hygiene:
Close bottle tightly, store away from direct sunlight, keep in cool place.
Use clean hands or a dropper/spoon to avoid contaminating the oil.
How to Choose a Good Massage Oil
Here are key criteria & red flags:
| What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| High-quality carrier oils (e.g. sweet almond, jojoba, coconut, grapeseed) | These are generally safe, skin-friendly, and non-irritating. They provide smooth glide. |
| Natural / plant-based ingredients | Less risk of harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrance, parabens, etc. More body-friendly. |
| Light, non-greasy texture (if that matters to you) | Some carriers are heavy; for massage you often want something that absorbs a bit, but still gives slip. |
| Complementary essential oils (if used) for scent or therapeutic properties | Lavender for relaxation, peppermint for cooling, etc. But they should be safe, diluted properly. |
| Hypoallergenic / safe for sensitive skin | Especially around intimate areas or for people with skin sensitivities. |
| Ethical sourcing, cruelty-free, non-toxic | If these are values you care about—you can find oils that are organic, fair-trade, etc. |
Red flags / what to avoid:
Harsh synthetic fragrances or strong perfume chemicals that can cause irritation.
Oils with minimal or unclear ingredient lists.
Oils that feel sticky or leave residue rather than absorbing.
Essential oils that are potent and not properly diluted (risk of skin burns or irritation).
Oils not safe for use around mucous membranes (for intimate massage) unless explicitly stated.
NYX Collection Example
Looking at the NYX Collection’s “Massage & Oils” page:
They state: “We create our massage oils with the finest plant oils, extracted with the best methods for skincare and effective massage.” (NYXCOLLECTION)
They have multiple scent options (Lily, Orange, Mint, Saffron, etc.) and a variety of products (roll-ons, pure coconut oil, etc.), which gives flexibility depending on what feeling or effect a couple wants. (NYXCOLLECTION)
If you are browsing their options, consider what scent you like, how strong/fruity/herbal you want it, and whether the oil is light or heavier, how many ml (size), and price. Also check if the oil is safe for intimate / sensitive skin if that’s your intended use.
Summary
Couples use massage oils to increase comfort, intimacy, relaxation, and skin care.
To use them well: warm them, start gently, communication is key, clean up well, choose safe oils.
When choosing an oil: prioritize natural ingredients, good carriers, hypoallergenic profiles, pleasant scent; avoid harsh additives.
Products Reviewed
-
NYX Scented Body Oil (Iris of the Moon) — the “Nyx body oil” with scents & shimmer. (Iris of the Moon)
-
Pure Natural Coconut Essential Oil (NYX Collection) — multipurpose skin/hair/massage oil. (NYXCOLLECTION)
Comparison Breakdown
| Feature | NYX Scented Body Oil | Pure Natural Coconut Essential Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients / Type | Blended oils: sunflower, apricot kernel, rosehip, with fragrance/scent + shimmer. (Iris of the Moon) | Single or few-ingredient oil (coconut), likely unfragranced or lightly scented. (NYXCOLLECTION) |
| Scent / Aroma | Strong scented, likely “fruity/floral/shimmery” etc. Many users say it smells “divine” and “calming.” (Iris of the Moon) | Pure coconut scent (natural). Less likely to irritate people who dislike synthetic perfumes. |
| Texture / Feel | Has shimmer (mica) in some cases, which may leave sparkle or slight residue. Some reviews mention black mica being visible. (Iris of the Moon) | Coconut oil is generally “thinner” or medium-weight, smooth texture, more natural “slip.” May absorb differently. |
| Skin Compatibility / Sensitivity | Because of fragrance + shimmer, potential for irritation especially on sensitive or intimate skin. If mica particles are big or dark, might stain. | More likely safe for sensitive skin (depending on processing) since it is more natural and fewer additives. Always patch test. |
| Purpose / Use-Case | Good if you want something luxurious, scented, maybe for relaxing massage, mood setting, aroma + skincare. Also good for body shining / cosmetic effect. | Better if you want something simple, multi-use (skin, hair, massage), minimal fragrance, more natural, lower risk of irritation. |
| Cost / Value | Might cost more because of scent, blending, packaging, decorative elements. | Usually more economical if simpler, especially if you need larger amounts. |
What Might Be Best Based on Your Needs
Here are some “if this, choose that” suggestions:
| Your Need / Concern | Best Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Sensitive skin or prone to irritation | Pure Natural Coconut Oil | Fewer additives, simpler formula, less risk of reaction. |
| Want a luxurious massage with scent / aroma & ambiance | NYX Scented Body Oil | Fragrance and special scents can enhance relaxation, mood, sensuality. |
| Want something multi-use (hair, body, massage) | Coconut Oil | Works for hair moisture, skin, massage; easier to keep around. |
| Want visual effect (shimmer on skin, glow) | Scented Oil with mica | Glitter/shimmer adds glow, visual appeal. |
| Want more value / frequent use | Coconut Oil | Generally simpler oils are more cost effective for regular massage. |
Tips to Pick the Right Oil
Look for oils where ingredient list is clear: know what the fragrance is; avoid “fragrance” if very vague.
Do a patch test (inner arm or small area) especially if using scented/shimmery oil.
Consider whether shimmer (mica) might stain linens or clothing; wash-ability matters.
Think about your “intimate sensitivity”: some oils may sting if used in sensitive areas, so choosing natural or unscented is safer.
Decide what feel you prefer: something that stays on surface and gives “glide” or something that absorbs more quickly.