Venues offering Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage is a type of massage in which essential oils extracted from plants are applied diluted in a carrier oil (almond, jojoba, grapeseed). The massage technique is mostly based on Swedish massage; the difference lies in the scent element of the session and the absorption of the oil through the skin. Pressure is light to medium; the aim is not deep muscle work but relaxation and sensory comfort.

Choosing the oil: where the session starts

Aromatherapy massage usually starts with choosing the oil. Lavender and chamomile are popular for relaxation and sleep, mint and eucalyptus for freshness and easier breathing, orange and bergamot for lifting the mood, and rosemary and ginger for tired muscles. The therapist prepares the blend according to your complaint and your preference on the day; some venues let guests smell a few ready-made blends and leave the choice to them.

The session step by step

1. In a short initial consultation you are asked about your expectations, allergies, whether you are pregnant and any medication you take.
2. The chosen blend is prepared. Some therapists hold their palms close to your face before starting and ask you to breathe in the scent with a few deep breaths.
3. You lie face down on the table; areas not being worked on stay covered with a towel or sheet. The massage starts with the back, neck and shoulders and continues with the backs of the legs.
4. With you lying on your back, the fronts of the legs, the arms, hands and shoulder area are worked on. The strokes are long, flowing and rhythmic; there is no sudden or hard touch.
5. In longer sessions a face and scalp massage is added. At the end of the session the room is left to you for a few minutes' rest.

Duration, frequency and aftercare

60-90 minutes is common for aromatherapy massage. Because it is a relaxation treatment, no particular course is needed; every two to three weeks during busy periods, or once a month for general upkeep, is a common choice. Because the oil is meant to stay on the skin and be absorbed, you are advised not to shower straight after the session; the scent lingers for a few hours. Citrus oils make the skin sensitive to the sun; if these oils were used, avoid direct sun for 12 hours after the session. As the oil can mark light-coloured and delicate fabrics, going to the session in comfortable, easily washed clothes is a practical precaution.

Realistic expectations

The main contribution of aromatherapy massage is relaxation. Gentle, rhythmic touch may help reduce muscle tension; a scent you like also supports the calming effect of the session. Essential oils are not a medicine: aromatherapy massage does not replace treatment for sleep disorders, anxiety or chronic pain. If a specific muscle knot or entrenched pain is the target, a type of massage with firmer pressure is the better choice.

Who it suits and who should take care

Aromatherapy massage is chosen by people with stress, anxiety, irregular sleep and mental fatigue. It is a good start for those who do not like intense pressure, those who want relaxation from a massage and first-time massage clients. As essential oils are potent compounds, the list of precautions is longer than for a classic massage with a neutral oil:

• Pregnancy: Many oils, such as sage, rosemary, jasmine and juniper, are inadvisable. During pregnancy, aromatherapy massage should only be given by therapists trained in this area and with a doctor's approval; pregnancy massage, designed for this period, is often a more suitable option.
• Asthma and allergies: Strong scents can be a trigger for people with asthma or allergies; mention any known plant or fragrance allergy when booking.
• Epilepsy: Some oils are not recommended if you have a history of epilepsy; the therapist needs to know this before the session.
• Sensitive skin: A small patch test on the inner arm may be requested before the appointment. Oil is not applied to areas with eczema, irritation or sunburn.
• General conditions: The session is postponed if you have a fever or an active skin infection; a doctor's approval is needed with a history of deep vein thrombosis, uncontrolled blood pressure or during cancer treatment.

Compared with Swedish, anti-stress and hot stone massage

Aromatherapy massage is most often confused with other relaxation massages that use similar techniques. The difference lies less in pressure than in oil, heat and pace:

Because anti-stress massage is often combined with aromatherapy, the two services may appear intertwined on menus. For someone who is bothered by scent or has asthma, an unscented Swedish massage using the same technique is a suitable alternative.

What sets the price and questions to ask before booking

The price of aromatherapy massage varies with session length, the type and quality of the oils used (ready-made blend or one prepared for you, organic products), the type of facility and whether use of areas such as the hammam or sauna is included; some venues also charge different prices at weekends and on special days. As most of the venues listed on this page are hotel spas with a hammam and sauna, it is often possible to combine the massage with use of the wet area. For a more detailed picture, see the guide factors that determine massage and spa prices. When booking, asking these questions makes things easier:

• Which oils are used, and is the scent chosen before the session?
• Is the stated time the net massage time, or does it include welcome and preparation?
• Can a small patch test be done for sensitive skin?
• Which oils are avoided in conditions such as pregnancy, asthma or epilepsy?
• Is use of the hammam, sauna or pool included in the price?