12 Best Massage Oils for Men to Relax Sore Muscles

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 08, 2024
Best Massage Oils for Men to Relax Sore Muscles
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Getting a body massage benefits everyone, especially men always hustling to be the best in their professional lives and provide comfort to their families. Tend to your overworked muscles, and aching back, and soothe your stressed mind with these best massage oils for men.

One query which often raises eyebrows is whether shaving or waxing have a direct effect on the skin whilst getting a massage. Our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist and published author, explains, “While it is not a requirement, some men may prefer to shave before a massage for personal comfort or hygiene reasons. However, it's recommended to shave at least a few hours prior to the session to avoid any skin irritation.”

Our findings show that arnica extract and fractionated coconut oil are the two star ingredients in most of these massage therapy oils that help to alleviate aches, pain, and soreness. As part of aromatherapy, these massage oils deeply penetrate the body, lifting and rejuvenating it from within. They are non-greasy, non-sticky formulas that glide effortlessly across the body, warming it up and slowly opening all the knots and tight muscles.

The carrier oils carry the sensual and enticing aroma of the essential oils, not only relaxing your body and mind but also stimulating your senses, bringing inner harmony and peace. Listed below are 12 of the best massage oils for men that are free from artificial fragrances and synthetic preservatives, with an all-natural formula safe for all skin types.

Benefits of a Body Massage Oil

The benefits of body massage oil are many. Some of the most beneficial aspects are as follows:

  1. Cleanses: A body massage oil refreshes you, exfoliating the dead skin cells and cleansing your body.
  2. Improves blood circulation: Massaging your body will increase blood circulation throughout the body improving the functions of the organs as well as enhancing the skin texture. 
  3. Relieves pain: Release tension from tight muscles and reduce stress by getting a body massage. Massaging loosens up the body and increases flexibility.
  4. Promotes lymphatic drainage: Massaging improves and encourages lymphatic drainage by expanding the lymphatic vessels and promoting lymph flow. An improved lymphatic system helps in effectively removing toxins and waste from the body.
  5. Rejuvenates: Getting a body massage refreshes both the body and mind. The soothing aroma and gentle kneading of the muscles lead to a relaxed body and rejuvenated mind.

12 Best Massage Oils for Men

The organic jojoba oil from NOW serves as a moisturizer for the body, face, and hair all at once. This multi-purpose oil hydrates and seals in moisture, promoting softer hair and skin. The gentle formula absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue behind. Suitable for all skin and hair types, it is ideal for combination acne-prone skin. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of jojoba oil calm and soothes skin. As a hair treatment, it is super hydrating for the hair.

Pros
  • Penetrates deep into the skin to moisturize
  • Does not clog pores
  • Prevents blackheads and acne
  • Hydrates hair and prevents split ends
  • It can be used directly or mixed with body lotions and hair products for added benefits
Cons
  • None
  • Best for Aromatherapy

    Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil

    Majestic Pure Fractionated Coconut Oil
  • Get the goodness of fractionated coconut oil delivered to you in this bottle by Majestic Pure. This liquid form of coconut oil is ideal for therapeutic massages as it does not possess a greasy feel. Packed with an amazing amount of antioxidant properties, it is an excellent massage therapy oil that soothes skin rashes, irritations, and inflammations. Men, use it alone or blend it with essential oils and massage those tensed knots and muscles away.

    Pros
    • Acts as an excellent moisturizer and softener
    • It helps fight acne, eczema, and psoriasis
    • Soothes chapped lips
    • Has many benefits in aromatherapy
    • Odorless, non-greasy
    Cons
    • The bottle leaks
  • Best for Stress Relief

    MAJESTIC PURE Arnica Massage Oil for Body

    MAJESTIC PURE Arnica Massage Oil for Body
  • Have a soothing massage and relax the sore muscles with this massage therapy oil from MAJESTIC PURE. Made with arnica extract, chamomile oil, and lavender oil, this aromatic blend instantly relieves and relaxes the mind. Soothing sore and tired muscles, it leaves you feeling renewed and rejuvenated. The wonderful mixture easily absorbs into the skin, nourishing and hydrating it. In between juggling work and life, indulge in a therapeutic massage and let this oil melt away all stress and tension.

    Pros
    • Made from pure natural ingredients
    • Can be used either by a massage therapist or at home
    • Great for tired feet
    • It has a gentle warming sensation that provides relief from pain, aches, and sore muscles
    • Does not stain clothes
    Cons
    • The pump makes things messy
  • Best for Sore Muscles

    Cosmetasa Massage Oil

    Cosmetasa Massage Oil
  • Cosmetasa's massage oil is specifically made to relieve sore muscles and it comes with a massage roller ball. Crafted from a blend of sweet almond oil, tocopherol, arnica extract, chamomile oil, and wild mint leaf oil, it deeply moisturizes and hydrates the skin along with providing relief from sore muscles and joints. The roller ball glides effortlessly on the skin, breaking knots and cramps, easing away tension. Make this massage therapy oil a part of your self-care routine and enjoy a soothing and relaxing massage anytime, anywhere.

    Pros
    • It leaves skin feeling smooth and silky
    • Provides warming sensation to sore muscles
    • Has a natural, soothing aroma
    • Gets easily absorbed into the skin
    • Non-greasy and non-staining
    Cons
    • None
  • Best for Stress Relief

    BOTANIC HEARTH Massage Oil

    BOTANIC HEARTH Massage Oil
  • With a unique mixture of handcrafted essential oils, BOTANIC HEARTH presents a massage oil that soothes and relaxes joint pains and muscle aches. It utilizes the goodness of arnica extract to reduce tension in the body and provide stress relief. And the added benefits of lavender and peppermint oils leave skin nourished, hydrated, and refreshed from deep within. The ideal body oil for men to massage the tensed muscles after a hectic day at work.

    Pros
    • Helps relieve muscle pain
    • Calms and soothes skin
    • Deeply hydrates and nourishes skin
    • Gets easily absorbed into the skin
    • Relaxes mind and body
    Cons
    • Strong aroma
  • Best for Joint Pain

    NOW Solutions, Arnica Relief Massage Oil

    NOW Solutions, Arnica Relief Massage Oil
  • Give your tired, overworked muscles the warm and soothing touch of arnica extract with this body oil for men who are always on the go. NOW harnesses the power of arnica extract in addition to antioxidant-rich olive oil, a collection of essential oils, and other natural extracts to provide immediate relief, reducing stress and anxiety. It is one of the best topical oils that alleviates pain of all sorts. One of the Amazon buyers has reviewed, "I play high-impact sports and get bruises all the time. This product has been amazing for healing my sore muscles and bruises!"

    Pros
    • Has a mild scent and light texture
    • Best for healing bruises
    • Works great as a topical pain reliever for muscle pain
    • Helps with inflammation
    • Provides a warming sensation
    Cons
    • None
  • Best for Sensual Massage

    Nooky Massage Oil

    Nooky Massage Oil
  • Another massage oil with the goodness of fractionated coconut oil calms the senses and refreshes you. Nooky massage oil helps in restoring the pH balance of the skin, softening and hydrating it. This oil keeps the body warm and relaxed for a long time after you have enjoyed your massages and spa treatment. It gets absorbed into the skin fast, loosening up the body and spreading a warm sensation throughout. Perfect for aromatherapy and romantic massage experience, give your male a sensual massage with this aromatic oil.

    Pros
    • Keeps skin hydrated and relaxed
    • Leaves skin feeling silky soft
    • Does not leave any greasy residue
    • Lightly scented
    • Made with pure natural ingredients
    Cons
    • The pump is faulty
  • Best for Full Body Massage Treatment

    Massage Oil for Massage Therapy Kit

    Massage Oil for Massage Therapy Kit
  • CMWGKBC's massage kit comes with oil for sore muscles and the other one for relaxation, along with a roller ball. The massage oil for sore muscles is infused with ginger oil and arnica extract that soothes aching muscles and helps in lymphatic drainage. The ginger oil warms up the muscles, comforting and stretching the tight knots. The lavender massage oil composed of lavender oil and grape seed oil lets you enjoy a relaxed, calm massage time. The grape seed oil is rich in vitamins A, E, and K which help protect the skin and keep it supple. Get spa-like massage treatment at home with this complete package of therapeutic massage. 

    Pros
    • The lavender oil moisturizes and smooths the skin
    • The ginger oil promotes lymphatic drainage
    • Gets easily absorbed into the skin
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • 100% natural blend of essential oils
    Cons
    • The quantity is quite less
  • Best for Re-energizing Body

    MAJESTIC PURE Eucalyptus Mint Massage Oil

    MAJESTIC PURE Eucalyptus Mint Massage Oil
  • For an ultimate aromatherapy experience, invest in this massage oil from MAJESTIC PURE. Massage away your tiredness and exhaustion with this invigorating oil made from eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, and rosemary oil. It provides aromatherapy benefits, restoring and refreshing the skin. Massaging with this oil gives the skin long-lasting moisture and makes it soft and supple. The wonderful blend of oils gives it a smooth texture that glides easily and instantly sinks into the skin. 

    Pros
    • Soothing aroma
    • Stimulates the senses
    • Re-energizes the body and mind
    • Gives a deep sense of relaxation
    • Suitable for all skin types
    Cons
    • The scent is not strong
  • Best for Relaxation

    Eminence Apricot Body Oil

    Eminence Apricot Body Oil
  • Formulated with apricot kernel oil, the body oil from Eminence helps soften skin, enhancing its flexibility. Ideal for aromatherapy, it reduces stress and anxiety, relieves joint pain, and reduces inflammation. Regular massage will also improve skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The apricot kernel oil is specifically beneficial for dry, mature, and sensitive skin. High in vitamin E, it nourishes and protects the skin, getting easily absorbed into the skin.

    Pros
    • Penetrates deep into the skin
    • Restores and heals skin
    • Has a light consistency
    • Has anti-inflammatory properties
    • Makes skin soft
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Calming Massage Oil for Massage Therapy

    Calming Massage Oil for Massage Therapy
  • Incorporate this massage oil into your self-care regimen and feel your body get revived and alive with clary, sage, vetiver, ylang ylang, and lavender essential oils. Carefully crafted to provide muscle relief as well as calm the senses, the plant-based formulas work wonders for the body. The non-greasy oil glides across the body smoothly, stirring up a sensual and romantic sensation. Ideal for a full body massage, the expertly blended formula penetrates deep into the skin, well-nourishing it from within.

    Pros
    • Moisturizes dry skin
    • Provides well-nourished skin
    • Has pure botanical oils
    • Relaxing massage experience
    • A warming massage oil for exhausted muscles
    Cons
    • The scent is not long-lasting
  • Massage Oil for Joint Pain Relief

    Massage Oil for Joint Pain Relief
  • An all-natural massage oil composed of lavender, peppermint, vetiver, and ylang-ylang, from O'RMEAS, gives instant relief from back and neck pain, joint pain, and tired calves and arms. Revitalize your body and mind with a soothing massage that calms physical and mental tension and stress. The lavender and peppermint lift up the mood, soothes the nervous system, and reduce muscle tension. The massage oil glides over the body, slowly loosening up the muscles and wiping away all the tiredness and stress. The vetiver and olive oil protects the skin, nourishing and improving dry and damaged skin. The finest composition of wonderful ingredients leaves skin supple and firm all day long.

    Pros
    • Moisturizes and hydrates skin
    • Easily gets absorbed
    • Reduces skin irritation and redness
    • Relieves sore muscles
    • Improves memory and focus
    Cons
    • Faulty pump

    How to Choose a Massage Oil for Men?

    When choosing a massage oil for men, there are a few points to keep in mind:

    • Oil Consistency: To get relief from body tiredness and soreness, heavy oils such as castor oil are perfect as they provide deeper relaxation. And to relieve pain from injuries or strains, light oils such as sunflower oil, and apricot oil are best suited as they get quickly absorbed and provide instant relief. 
    • Natural Ingredients: Choose a massage oil free from synthetic preservatives, mineral oil, and artificial fragrances. Massage oils made from natural and organic ingredients are not only beneficial for the skin but also for the mind.
    • Non-allergic: Always check the ingredient list to rule out allergens. It is essential to do a patch test before using massage oil.
    • Customer Reviews: Reading the customer reviews gives us an idea about how the oil will perform. We also get to know whether it is greasy or not, or whether it stains clothes.

    How to Use Massage Oils for Men?

    To reap the benefits of massage oil, follow these simple steps:

    1. Pour a small amount of the massage oil into your hand.
    2. Rub your hands together to warm the oil before applying.
    3. Apply on a desired area or on the whole body.
    4. Gently knead and stroke to release tension. Massage the forehead, cheeks, ears, and jaws in a circular motion.
    5. Continue to the chest and abdomen, massaging in a circular motion clockwise. Massage the trunk inward, along the ribs.
    6. Continue to the back and bottom.
    7. Stroke the arms and legs in straight, long motions.
    8. Take time on the joints, carefully massaging in circular strokes.
    9. Do not forget to knead and massage the feet, including the toes and soles.
    10. Let the body soak in the oil for about 10 minutes.
    11. Reapply and repeat as needed.
    12. Take a warm bath once done.

    Conclusion

    We hope we could answer all your questions that brought you searching to our article. The body oils for men discussed in this article have been carefully selected based on their benefits and healing properties. They have been specially curated, as per our expertise, keeping in mind the needs of men who are physically and mentally active and always on the go. We are sure you will soon fall in love with massages seeing how they just wake up your body, sharpen your senses, and improve your skin health.

    Our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist and published author, explains the benefits of massages, saying, “Massages are not gender-specific and offer numerous benefits to men as well. Regular massages can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and enhance physical fitness by relieving muscle tension and promoting flexibility. They can also aid in recovery from injuries or strenuous workouts. Therefore, massages can be a vital part of a man's overall health and wellness routine.” Indulge in a relaxing, therapeutic massage treatment today with the best massage oils for men, and keep your body and mind aligned and in sync with your inner self.

    Contributor: Dr. Anna Chacon, Dermatologist - MyPsoriasisTeam

    FAQ's

    Which massage oil can be used as lube?
    Heavier massage oils such as sweet almond oil can be used as lube.
    Is oil massage good for men?
    Yes, oil massage is good for men to relieve back and neck pain, sore muscles, and knotted joints. Massage relaxes the body and increases blood flow.
    What is the importance of massage for men?
    Massage has many health benefits for men. It eases overworked muscles, breaks knots and cramps, and reduces the stress of a hectic schedule. It stretches the muscles, removes toxins from the body, and refreshes the body and mind.
    Which oil is best for pain massage?
    Arnica oil is best for pain massage as it soothes muscle pain, reduces inflammation, and heals bruises and wounds.
    Which massage is best for body pain?
    To relieve tense muscles and body pain, Swedish massage is ideal while deep tissue massage is best suited for strenuous activities, chronic pain, or sports injury.
    How do you make massage oil for pain at home?
    The easiest and most effective massage oil for pain that you can make at home is garlic oil. Put 3-4 garlic buds in mustard oil and heat it for 3 to 5 minutes or until the garlic turns brown. Applying it to the joints and other painful areas will instantly provide relief from the aches and pain.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    The author, Anoushka is our in-house skincare expert. She believes that men need as much self-love and care as women do. She has seen the men in her family and close circle always striving to excel in their professional life so that they could provide a comfortable life for their families. In today’s world, where men and women walk shoulder to shoulder, there is immense pressure on men, physically as well as mentally, to prove their prowess. To relieve men of their tension and stress, she has curated a list of the best massage oils for men. In today’s article, she has discussed the benefits that body massage can have on men’s physical and mental health. She urges all men to take some time out and indulge in some self-care. Before recommendation, she has gone through each of the product's ingredient list, skin type, and customer reviews to bring you the best of the best.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
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    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More