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Massage is a great way to improve blood circulation and promote a baby’s healthy growth and development. The best baby oils for massage have many benefits for children. They moisturize the skin, provide warmth, and act as a good agent for a smooth massage. However, picking a suitable oil is difficult since the baby’s skin is sensitive to most products. Here, we have compiled a list of some good baby oils for a massage that you can choose for your little one. Check with your baby’s pediatrician before planning to purchase one.
Top Picks
What Are The Benefits Of Oil Massages To Babies?
Massaging enhances bonding time and enables you and your baby to play and rest together. It also helps
- Promote physical touch and eye contact.
- Calm your baby.
- Your baby falls asleep peacefully.
Tips To Keep In Mind While Massaging Your Baby
Check out the following massage oil application tips that you could employ while massaging your baby:
- Starting from below the ribs, massage your baby’s tummy in clockwise circular motions.
- It’s a good idea to massage your baby after a bath. Apply oil or lotion when the baby is undressed and their skin is damp.
- If you do not want the baby to fall asleep, massage them with light oil. If their skin is dry, use massage oils that are gel-based.
12 Best Baby Oils For Massage
1. Best Paraben-Free: Mustela Baby Oil
Mustela baby oil is gentle and absorbs quickly, thus soothing and comforting the baby’s skin. It is made entirely of natural ingredients such as avocado, sunflower, and pomegranate oils, making it a trusted choice. The oil is hypoallergenic and delicately perfumed with Mustela’s signature fragrance. In addition, the massage oil is dermatologist-tested and free of parabens and phthalates. For a more detailed review of this baby massage oil, here’s a video showcasing a tester’s experience.
Pros
- Safe and non-toxic
- B-corp-certified
- Leaves the skin smooth
- Stimulates the senses
- Works for cradle cap
Cons
- Fragrance may be stronger than expected
- Consistency may be thick
"I chose this oil for its mild fragrance, which soothes my baby. It's pretty safe to use for the face and body and leaves no residue. The natural ingredients in this formula are gentle and nourishing. Moreover, I like that it delivers sufficient hydration to my baby's skin."
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 324 reviews on Amazon, it's clear that many people love this product.
2. Best For Sensitive Skin: Noleo Gentle Baby Oil
The Noleo Baby Oil is a blend of three natural oils – grapeseed, safflower, and jojoba. Grapeseed oil provides nourishment while keeping skin concerns at bay, safflower oil is a rich source of Vitamin E, and jojoba oil has Vitamin A, E, Linoleic, and Omega-6 fatty acids, which safeguard sensitive baby skin. The oil contains natural ingredients and no additives, making it suitable for your child’s gentle skin.
Pros
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Enhances skin elasticity
- Travel-sized packaging
- Helps keep irritations and allergies at bay
- Convenient pump dispenser
Cons
- Natural scent may be stronger than expected
- Some may find the oil thick
"I switched to this oil for my baby after testing multiple choices. It prevents unwanted stickiness and eases her into deep sleep. Plus, the non-irritant formula pampers her skin. It's a pretty lovely product!"
3. Best Hypoallergenic: Sebamed Baby Massage Oil
It is essential to keep a baby’s skin healthy and nourished, and this oil from Sebamed helps do that. The soothing body oil has a light texture and gets absorbed quickly. Made with soy oil and wheat germ oil containing vitamin F, it nourishes the skin gently while soothing it. Moreover, it is a hypoallergenic, clinically proven, pediatrician-recommended baby massage oil, making it a safe and effective option.
Pros
- Helps tackle dry skin
- Makes skin soft and supple
- Does not solidify in winter
- Has a convenient pump applicator
- Suitable for all seasons
Cons
- Consistency might be a little watery
- Fragrance might not be liked by all
Mustela Baby Oil Best Paraben-Free | Noleo Gentle Baby Oil Best For Sensitive Skin | Sebamed Baby Massage Oil Best Hypoallergenic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.57 x 1.57 x 5.71 inches | 2 x 2 x 5.5 inches | 1.97 x 1.77 x 6.1 inches |
| Weight | 4.4 Ounces | 4 Ounces | 6.35 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 324 | 3 | 276 |
| Price | $12.5 | $24.99 | $865.0 |
4. Best Artificial Fragrance-Free: Earth Mama Calendula Baby Oil
Earth Mama baby oil contains grape seed oil, calendula oil, and jojoba oil and is suitable for a newborn’s sensitive skin. This baby massage oil moisturizes and nourishes dry skin and can be used on the body and scalp for the baby’s overall wellness. The baby-friendly oil does not contain harmful ingredients, such as mineral oils, parabens, and petroleum, and is also free of artificial fragrances..
Pros
- Nut-free oil
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Preservative-free
- Light scent
Cons
- May not be suitable for cradle cap
- May not suit eczema-prone skin
"Its organic build was the first thing that appealed to me. Using it to massage my baby has also helped keep her skin supple and smooth. Also, the fragrance-free nature build ensures that my baby stays comfortable even when I apply the oil to her face."
5. Best Organic: Tropical Holistic Extra Virgin Organic Olive Oil
Tropical Holistic olive oil is entirely organic, making it a daddy-and-mommy-approved product. The greenish-yellow tint indicates freshness and quality, and it is appropriate for all skin types. The high oleic acid content works deep to rejuvenate the skin and hair, giving the baby’s skin a youthful appearance and increasing natural suppleness.
Pros
- Free of preservatives
- Unrefined and cold-pressed
- Rich in antioxidants
- Prevents inflammation
- Multipurpose oil
Cons
- Consistency may be slightly thick
- May be less suitable for sensitive skin
"Although dense, this oil moisturizes my baby's skin without leaving a greasy residue. Its pleasant scent is also a plus, and I've noticed that applying it to the diaper area has kept rashes at bay. Hence, it has become a permanent part of the massage routine."
Quick Fact6. Best Dermatologically Tested: Johnson’s Baby Oil Gel
This concentrated gel is brought to you by the trusted brand Johnson’s. It contains cocoa butter and shea butter, known for their skin-conditioning and skin-nourishing properties. This baby oil gel seals in up to ten times more moisture than a regular lotion on damp skin. Gently massage the oil gel into moist skin after showering to enhance skin softness and suppleness. The gel can be trusted by moms and dads as it is hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested. Know more about this product in this video, in which a reviewer tests this gel.
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Clinically tested
- Soothes and protects the skin
- Free of paraben, phthalate, or dyes
Cons
- May be slightly hard to squeeze out
- May be a bit greasy
"This oil gel caught my attention as it is apt for both newborn and adult skin. It made my baby's skin soft and smooth. However, it is slightly greasy and takes time to absorb. Overall, it's a nice add-on to my routine."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 363 good reviews on Amazon.
7. Best Non-Toxic: The Moms Co. Natural Baby Massage Oil
The natural, high-quality ingredients in the Moms Co. massage oil include wheat germ, jojoba, chamomile, almond, avocado, and sesame oils. All these ingredients aid in moisturizing, soothing the skin, and strengthening bones and muscles of your baby. The massage oil can quickly become mom-approved as it is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and free of parabens, mineral oils, and synthetic fragrances.
Pros
- Strengthens muscles
- Prevents skin damage
- Replenishes and restores skin’s pH
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- May not be suitable for the face
- Fragrance may be stronger than expected
8. Best Nourishing: Himalaya Nourishing Baby Oil
Himalaya nourishing oil is a mild and stain-free oil ideal for massaging your baby’s skin. It helps soothe and moisturize the baby’s skin and aids in treating dry skin. The vitamin-E-rich olive oil nourishes sensitive baby skin, and Ashwagandha, also known as the winter cherry, contains antioxidants that protect the skin before and after bathing. The skin-health-improving baby-friendly body oil is free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, lanolin, and synthetic colors.
Pros
- Soothes chafed skin
- Dermatologically tested
- Smooth consistency
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May have a strong fragrance
- Moisturization may not last long for some
"In addition to hydrating the skin, this blend of three oils helps my baby sleep better. I am not a big fan of its fragrance, but I have stuck to it due to its gentle formulation. Plus, the non-greasy formulation keeps stains away from the clothes and linens."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 177 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
9. Best GMO-Free: Motherlove Birth & Baby Oil
Motherlove’s versatile baby oil is ideal for perineal massage before and after labor. It is also suitable for newborn babies. It includes ingredients such as lavender flower extracts and apricot oil, which have nourishing properties and are gentle on sensitive baby skin. This organic oil contains no GMOs, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
Pros
- Vegan
- Lightweight
- Cruelty-free and safe for irritated skin
- USDA-certified organic ingredients
- Suitable for dry scalp
Cons
- May not be suitable for eczema
- May be stickier than expected
"This gentle and versatile option is soothing for my infant's skin. It hydrates while relaxing her with a pleasant scent. I have also used it for perineal massage. It's been a noteworthy purchase for us."
Did You Know?10. Best Non-Greasy: Evereden Soothing Baby Massage Oil
Evereden massage oil is suited for all skin types as it is made from natural ingredients such as jojoba, grape seed, avocado, coconut, and sunflower seed oils. It is non-greasy and lightweight and helps enhance skin hydration. This massage oil is non-toxic and has been recommended by dermatologists as well as pediatricians. Furthermore, the fragrance-free body oil comes in an easy pump bottle and is ideal for eczema-prone skin.
Pros
- Helps lock moisture
- Quick-absorbing
- Doesn’t leave residue
- Pediatrician-recommended
- Suitable for dry and irritation-prone skin
Cons
- May not be suitable for cradle cap
- Quantity may not be sufficient for some
"I'm pleased by the natural ingredients in this solution. Though I wish the quantity could be more, the product's effectiveness and moisturizing properties made me stick to it. It not only works well for my baby but also provides visible nourishment to my skin."
11. Best Quick-Absorbing: Shoosha Baby Massage Oil
Shoosha massage oil is a rich, mild blend of soothing oils infused with calendula petals that moisturize the baby’s dry, delicate skin for up to 24 hours. It provides additional moisture to the skin. It is non-greasy and absorbs quickly, and can be used from head to toe. Further, this hypoallergenic baby oil is infused with the soothing properties of coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, rosemary oil, and vitamin E.
Pros
- Relieves dryness
- Infused with organic ingredients
- Suitable for eczema and cradle cap
- Biodegradable
Cons
- Fragrance may be powerful
- May require reapplication
"I find this multipurpose oil reliable for my baby's skin as it is chemical-free. Plus, its organic composition helps with my baby's skin issues and gives me peace of mind. On the whole, it's worth considering."
12. Best Cold-Pressed: California Baby Calming Massage Oil
The main ingredients of the California baby massage oil are cold-pressed oils such as canola, safflower, primrose, scented French lavender, and clary sage. They help soothe and smooth newborn skin while also refreshing the senses. This natural massage oil has a calming aroma, is gentle on the face and body, and penetrates deep into the skin without leaving any greasy residue.
Pros
- Infused with 100% plant-based ingredients
- Helps relax the child’s muscles
- Non-GMO
- Free of harsh chemicals and preservatives
- Affordable option
Cons
- Quantity may not be sufficient for some
- May have an overpowering scent
"This massage oil has become a part of my child's daily skincare routine, acting as a soothing agent by keeping my little one comfortable. I adore the relaxing aroma. Plus, this formula is eco-friendly and non-irritating, so I am happy with it!"
How To Choose The Right Baby Oil For Massage?
It is critical to consider the following factors to select the best baby oil for massage.
- Exclusive for babies: Select age-appropriate and expert-approved oils or oils meant exclusively for babies and not for adults. You may also choose those with natural ingredients.
- Artificial fragrances: Avoid those with artificial fragrances as they may irritate the baby’s sensitive skin.
- Chemicals: Read the ingredient list and ensure that the product is free of mineral oils, parabens, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals, as it can damage the skin’s natural protective barrier.
- Mixture of oils: Avoid combining two or more oils for massage.
- Patch test: Always do a patch test before using the massage oil to prevent allergies and rashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a baby’s complexion change from regular massages with baby oil?
Baby oils are not intended to change the complexion of the baby. They are formulated to keep your infant calm and strengthen them.
2. How often should I massage my baby with oil?
Massaging helps your infant stay calm, releases wind from the tummy, and keeps them relaxed (1). You can massage them daily, on alternate days, or as suggested by a healthcare professional.
3. Is baby oil safe for babies?
Baby oils specially formulated for babies’ delicate skin are safe to use. However, avoid oils that are formulated with artificial fragrances, synthetic dyes, and other nasty chemicals. Opt for oils that are doctor-approved or dermatologist-recommended or have a clinically proven track record of being safe and effective.
4. What is the best way to warm up baby oil?
Pour some oil onto your palms, rub your hands together, and place the hands directly on the baby’s skin.
5. When can I start using baby oil on a newborn?
You may wait until your baby is one month old (2).
6. Is baby oil good for babies with eczema?
Baby oils are used to keep the skin hydrated and smooth. However, for babies with eczema or other skin conditions, consult a dermatologist to choose the right oil for the little one.
7. What’s the best way to store baby oil?
Always store the baby oil at room temperature and in a dark place. Avoid storing the oil in direct sunlight.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna specializes in pregnancy, nursing, and baby products. She adds her expertise and skills to curate informative reviews that can make your buying process easy. In this article, she has listed the best baby oils for massage with detailed information. The post includes tips on how to massage babies when using these oils. Based on real user feedback, these oils are safe, high-quality, and nourishing.
The Bottom Line
Using the best baby oils for massage helps relax the baby while improving blood circulation, and it also helps them fall asleep. Choosing oils formulated especially for babies is recommended as they are free of ingredients that may not suit their delicate skin. Our top recommendations include the quick-absorbing Mustela Baby Oil and the dermatologically tested Sebamed Baby Massage Oil. You could also get Johnson’s Baby Oil Gel, which is paraben-free. Moreover, ensure the oils are pediatrician-tested and do not have harmful chemicals or artificial fragrances to prevent skin irritation. Lastly, perform a patch test before using the oil for the entire body to ensure its safety.
Infographic: Tips To Keep In Mind While Massaging Your Baby
Besides procuring the right massage oil that suits your baby and your needs, it’s also crucial to adhere to specific rules when massaging the baby to ensure a safe, satisfying, and hassle-free session. Check out the following infographic to learn the essential factors to remember when massaging a baby. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Baby massage: in pictures
https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/health-daily-care/massage/baby-massage - Washing and bathing your baby
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/caring-for-a-newborn/washing-and-bathing-your-baby/ - K Onozawa et al.; (2011); Infant massage improves mother-infant interaction for mothers with postnatal depression
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11246096/ - Bengü Çetinkaya et al.; (2012); The effectiveness of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil as a treatment for infantile colic
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22435980/
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