If you’re an athlete or just generally active, regular massages may be of necessity as they can be a tool to help your body recover. Of course, massages can also be a way to connect to partners, an act of service for someone you care for. And certainly, there’s good reason to do the same: Massage therapy has been shown to reduce cortisol levels1 (the stress chemicals) by an average of 31% for study participants and increase serotonin and dopamine. Additionally, body-specific massages have been shown to reduce pain in areas all over, from headaches and shoulder tension to back pain and knee discomfort. There’s also tons of research demonstrating the benefits for people with high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, and other conditions. Yes, massage—be it a self-massage, done by a professional, or by a partner—is a great way to de-stress, get in tune with your body, and nurture your skin. Now on to the logistics: Massages require some sort of oil or cream, as it will provide slip and comfort during the push-and-pull. Not only that, but a good massage oil contains a host of good-for-you actives, so your skin is getting some nurturing, too. Here, some of our favorites should you be in the market to get your massage routine started. Contour Body Treatment Oil, Clarins ($69) Relaxing Lavender Massage Oil, Kneipp ($23) Pure Calm Wellness Body Oil, Uma ($90) Keep It Supple Body Oil, Versed ($14.99) Jasmine Body Oil, Herbivore Botanicals ($44) Romantic Call Body Oil, Balmyard Beauty ($82) Olio Per Il Corpo, Jordan Samuel ($32) Heating Massage Oil, EIR NYC ($43) Organic Bath & Body Oil, CHOISELLE ($25) Cinnamon Arnica Oil, Savor Beauty ($30) Oil No. 0, Maude ($35)
