At Telic we know that physiotherapy is a discipline that seeks to improve the quality of life of patients through different rehabilitation techniques. One of the most commonly used tools is massage, which requires specific products such as creams, lotions and oils.

In this article, in addition to talking about the importance of being familiar with the different types of products for specific injuries and needs, we will also analyse which of our massage creams, lotions and oils are the most suitable products.

6 differences between massage oils, lotions and creams

Massage is a key tool for treating muscle ailments and improving blood circulation in patients. The most common question, while preparing the session, is which product is most suitable for the massage.

To get the desired results, it is necessary to ask yourself about the differences between massage creams, lotions and oils. And to find the most suitable product according to the patient's needs and ailments. These are the main differences between professional massage oils, lotions and creams:

1. Consistency

Creams have a thicker and heavier texture, while oils are lighter and more easily absorbed by the skin. This difference in the firmness of the two products impacts their use. While creams are ideal for more localised and specific massages, oils should be used for more extensive and longer massages. Massage lotion, on the other hand, falls somewhere in between cream and oil. It offers a much lighter texture than cream, but with more consistency than oils.

2. Ingredients

Massage creams, lotions and oils can all contain a variety of active ingredients, but there are certain differences. For example, massage creams and lotions usually contain active ingredients specific to the illness to be treated, as well as substances that are more suitable for relieving muscle pain or improving circulation. Oils, as their name suggests, may contain a blend of essential oils combined with other ingredients such as vitamin E and omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids.

3. Absorption

Due to the aforementioned difference in consistency, creams and lotions take longer to be absorbed by the skin. In other words, the active ingredients can work for longer. Oils, on the other hand, are absorbed more quickly and do not leave a greasy feeling on the skin, making them a great choice for long massages.

4. Hydration

Hydration is another factor to consider when choosing massage creams and oils. For example, professional massage creams and lotions offer a more hydrating base than oils.

These characteristics make massage creams and lotions the ideal choice if the patient has dry skin or more sensitive skin than normal. We should also take into account that massage creams can help to keep the skin hydrated and protected during the massage.

Finally, it should be noted that oils can guarantee a high level of deep hydration, thus helping to protect the patient's skin.

5. Sensation

Massage creams and lotions often provide different sensations on the skin, depending on the active ingredients they contain. Oils, on the other hand, tend to have a softer, silkier feel.

When choosing between massage creams and oils, it is necessary to bear in mind that creams are more suitable for vigorous massages while oils are the best choice for softer and more relaxing sessions. Lotions provide the ideal middle ground between vigorous massage and relaxing massage.

6. Scent

Massage creams and oils also differ in the fragrances they contain and emit. For example, massage creams and lotions tend to have stronger scents as they may contain essential oils such as lavender or eucalyptus. Although they may also contain fragrances, oils have much more subtle and less aggressive scents.

On the other hand, by choosing a neutral cream, lotion or oil, the practitioner can always tailor the products to the desired results by adding a few drops of essential oils.

Which Telic massage oils, lotions and creams should you use according to the patient's needs?

Telic's primary focus is not only to collaborate in the work of physiotherapists, but also to facilitate their work. How? By knowing that each injury and patient need will require a specific product.

Because not all massage oils, lotions and creams are the same, and each of these products is specially designed to treat a specific type of injury.

By choosing the right product, not only can you ensure an effective and safe treatment, but you can also make a difference to the patient's recovery. Below we will take a detailed look at nine of the most popular massage creams, lotions and oils and their recommended application.

1. OXD intense cooling gel: This gel is ideal for post-competition massages, as it aids muscle recovery after intense physical exertion. Its cold application aids muscle relaxation and helps prevent injuries. In addition, its refreshing and energising effect provides immediate relief to tired muscles.

2. OXD intense heat cream: This product, which belongs to the range of sports massage creams, is perfect for preparing the muscles before strenuous exercise or physical exertion in adverse weather conditions. Its intense heat effect helps to prepare the muscles to prevent injuries.

3. OXD neutral massage oil: This oil is ideal for long massages, as it facilitates the sliding of the hands and is suitable for any massage technique. Furthermore, it is recommended for all skin types and its scent and properties can be personalised with a few drops of essential oils.

4. OXD oily massage cream: This massage cream is recommended for all skin types and transforms into oil during the session thanks to its melting formula. Enriched with vitamin E, it is a good choice for massages that require extra hydration.

5. OXD sweet almond massage oil: This massage oil is ideal for sensitive and dry skins, as it is enriched with vitamin E and is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a natural oil that slides easily over the skin, making it perfect for all types of massage, including relaxing and sports massage. It also has hydrating and nourishing properties that help to keep the skin soft and supple.

6. OXD oily mild heat massage cream: This cream is designed to provide a gentle heat effect, making it easier for the hands to slide over skin. It is also suitable for all massage techniques, as its hydrating formula enriched with vitamin E is recommended for all skin types.

7. Uman shea butter massage oil: This oil is recommended for sensitive and irritated skin. This product helps to combat the signs of skin ageing, providing protection, repair, relief, rejuvenation and strengthening of skin tissue. Its almond base enriched with vitamin E makes it an ideal choice for skin care.

8. OXD neutral massage lotion: This massage lotion is specifically designed for long massages, allowing the hands to slide smoothly over skin, and it is suitable for all skin types. It can also be combined with any OXD essential oil to personalise it to the desired therapy or scent.

9. OXD neutral cream for long massages: This cream has a unique, high quality formula, suitable for long massages. As with all our neutral massage creams, lotions and oils, it can be personalised with any essential oil from the OXD range to suit the therapy or scent required.