Quick answer: Olive oil is a good massage oil for adults. It glides well, does not dry out quickly, and leaves the skin soft. Warm it slightly, use about one tablespoon for each arm or leg, and wash off the excess after an hour. Choose extra virgin or a plain olive oil with no added fragrance. For babies, people with eczema and very sensitive skin, ask a doctor first, because olive oil can weaken the skin barrier in some people.
Malish with zaitoon ka tel is a tradition in many Pakistani homes, from grandparents’ knee rubs to weekly head massages. Here is how to do it well.
In this guide
Benefits of massage with olive oil
Most of the benefit of massage comes from the massage itself: pressure on tight muscles, warmth and relaxation. The oil makes this comfortable by letting your hands glide without pulling the skin.
- Good glide. Olive oil is thicker than many oils, so it stays on the skin through a long massage.
- Softer skin afterwards. It leaves dry skin feeling smooth.
- Easy to find and affordable. Most kitchens already have it.
- Relaxation. Regular massage can ease muscle tension and help you sleep.
Olive oil does not by itself cure joint pain, arthritis or muscle injuries. If you have ongoing pain, see a doctor or physiotherapist.
How to do an olive oil massage
- Warm the oil. Put the bottle or a small bowl of oil in warm water for a few minutes. Test it on the inside of your wrist. It should feel warm, never hot.
- Use a small amount. Start with about a tablespoon for one leg or both arms. Add more as needed.
- Massage towards the heart. On arms and legs, use long strokes upwards, from hands and feet towards the body.
- Use circles on joints. Small circular movements around knees, ankles, shoulders and wrists.
- Knead tight muscles. Use your palms and thumbs on the calves, thighs and shoulders. Press firmly, but stop if it hurts.
- Rest, then wash. Leave the oil for 30 to 60 minutes, then wash with a mild soap or take a warm bath.
Foot massage with olive oil
A foot massage before bed is one of the most popular uses. Rub warm olive oil into the soles, heels and between the toes, press your thumbs along the arch, and pull each toe gently. Put on cotton socks to protect your bedsheets and to soften cracked heels overnight.
Scalp and head massage
For a head massage, use one to two tablespoons of warm oil. Part your hair in sections, apply oil to the scalp with your fingertips and massage in small circles for five to ten minutes. Leave it on for 30 minutes or longer, then shampoo twice. See olive oil for hair for more.
Mixing olive oil with other oils
| Mix | Why |
|---|---|
| Olive oil + coconut oil | Lighter feel, absorbs faster |
| Olive oil + almond oil | Smooth and light, a classic body massage blend |
| Olive oil + mustard oil | A traditional warming blend in Pakistan; strong smell |
| Olive oil + a few drops of essential oil | Fragrance; always dilute and patch test |
Essential oils such as lavender or eucalyptus must always be diluted, a few drops in a tablespoon of olive oil, and never used on babies without medical advice.
Which olive oil is best for massage?
- Extra virgin olive oil is the purest. It has nothing added and nothing taken out. It has a mild olive smell.
- Refined olive oil has less smell and is cheaper.
- Olive pomace oil is the cheapest and is often used in massage parlours and soap. It is refined after solvent extraction. See pomace olive oil.
If you use oil on your skin regularly, extra virgin is our recommendation. A 250 ml bottle is a good size for massage. Keep it away from heat and sunlight so it does not go rancid.
When to be careful
- Babies and newborns. A 2013 study found that olive oil can weaken the skin barrier, and the authors advised against olive oil for infant massage. Ask your paediatrician which oil to use.
- Eczema and very dry or sensitive skin. Olive oil may make these worse. See olive oil for skin.
- Broken skin, rashes, swelling or recent injuries. Do not massage these areas.
- Pregnancy. Gentle massage is usually fine, but avoid essential oils unless your doctor approves.
Frequently asked questions
Is olive oil good for body massage?
Yes, for most adults. It glides well and leaves skin soft. Wash off the excess after about an hour.
Is olive oil good for joint pain massage?
Massage can ease stiffness and feel soothing, and olive oil is a comfortable oil to use. It does not treat arthritis or injuries. See a doctor for ongoing pain.
Can I use olive oil for baby massage?
Research suggests olive oil can weaken a baby’s skin barrier. Ask your paediatrician before using any oil on a newborn.
Should I warm olive oil before massage?
Yes, slightly. Warm oil feels better and spreads more easily. Never heat it until it is hot.