What Is an Aromatherapy Massage? Benefits, Oils & What to Expect
An aromatherapy massage is the perfect marriage of touch and scent — two of the most powerful sensory tools available for shifting your state of mind. By combining skilled massage technique with the therapeutic properties of pure essential oils, aromatherapy massage delivers benefits that go far beyond relaxation.
What Is Aromatherapy Massage?
Aromatherapy massage combines Swedish-style massage techniques with the use of concentrated plant-derived essential oils. The oils are diluted in a carrier oil (such as sweet almond, jojoba, or fractionated coconut oil) and applied to the skin during the massage. As you breathe in the aromatic compounds throughout your session, and as the molecules are absorbed through your skin, you receive benefits on both a physical and emotional level.
Popular Essential Oils and Their Benefits
- Lavender — Calming, promotes sleep, reduces anxiety
- Peppermint — Energising, relieves headaches, aids focus
- Eucalyptus — Clears the respiratory system, decongestant
- Rosemary — Improves circulation, reduces muscle pain
- Frankincense — Grounding, anti-inflammatory, reduces stress
- Ylang Ylang — Balances hormones, reduces blood pressure, uplifting
- Chamomile — Soothes irritated skin, reduces inflammation, promotes calm
- Bergamot — Uplifting, reduces anxiety and depression
Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage
- Deeply relaxing for body and mind
- Supports emotional wellbeing and hormonal balance
- Nourishes and softens the skin
- Reduces headaches and migraines
- Supports the immune and respiratory systems
- Helps with PMS and hormonal fluctuations
- Promotes deeper, more restorative sleep
What Happens During an Aromatherapy Massage?
Your session begins with a consultation during which your therapist will ask about your physical and emotional goals, any health conditions, allergies, or skin sensitivities. They’ll then select or customise an essential oil blend tailored to your needs.
The massage itself follows a similar flow to a Swedish massage — long, flowing strokes working through the full body — with the addition of the warm, scented oil and the aromatic atmosphere created by the treatment. Many spas will also diffuse complementary oils in the room to enhance the sensory experience.
See our types of massage complete guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What essential oils are used in aromatherapy massage?
Common oils include lavender (calming), peppermint (energising), eucalyptus (respiratory support), rosemary (circulation), frankincense (grounding), and ylang ylang (hormonal balance). Your therapist will select a blend based on your needs.
Can I be allergic to essential oils?
Yes. Always inform your therapist of any known allergies, skin sensitivities, or hay fever. A good therapist will always do a patch test or discuss the oils being used before your session.
Is aromatherapy massage safe during pregnancy?
Some essential oils are contraindicated during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant, always inform your therapist. A trained therapist will use only pregnancy-safe oils, or recommend a pregnancy massage instead.
Do essential oils actually work, or is it just a nice smell?
The science is increasingly supportive. Essential oil molecules are absorbed through the skin and inhaled, where they interact with the limbic system — the part of the brain governing emotion and memory. Studies support the benefits of lavender for anxiety and peppermint for cognitive performance.
What should I wear after an aromatherapy massage?
Avoid showering for at least 4–6 hours after your treatment to allow the oils to continue absorbing into the skin. Wear loose, comfortable clothing.