Redness, bumps, and itching — oh my!
Does this sound like your sensitive skin? Most likely you already know what triggers your skin sensitivity, whether it’s an allergic reaction or another common condition like contact dermatitis.
But if you enjoy regularly receiving massages — or you’re thinking of getting your first massage — you need to consider how the treatment could possibly affect your skin.
In this post, we’ll discuss the basics of skin sensitivity and provide some important do’s and don’ts when it comes to massage. That way, you can enjoy your massage worry-free (and have beautiful, glowing skin afterwards).
Let’s get started!
What Causes Skin Sensitivity?
There are numerous medical conditions and external factors that contribute to sensitive skin. These can include:
- Allergic responses
- Contact dermatitis
- Acne
- Rosacea
- Eczema
- Dry skin
- Certain medications
For this discussion, we’ll focus on the two most common conditions that could be affected by massage: allergies and contact dermatitis. Although allergies are an immune response and dermatitis is caused by inflammation, the symptoms are nearly identical: redness, bumps, itching, and stinging.
The good news is that it’s entirely possible to receive a massage without irritating sensitive skin — it just requires a little more forethought!
Massage Tips for Sensitive Skin
To ensure a safe, comfortable massage session for you and your therapist, here are some helpful tips.
Know Your Triggers
If you already know there are certain chemicals, fragrances, or natural products that irritate your skin, communicate with your therapist before your session begins. The same is true of any known allergies, such as nuts, coconuts, or avocadoes (some massage oils may contain these products).
Your therapist can recommend a gentle product that’s designed for sensitive skin, such as grapeseed or jojoba oil. It may also be possible for them to perform massage techniques that don’t require the use of any oil, lotion, or cream.
Prepare Your Skin
If possible, it’s best to shower or bathe shortly before your session so you’ll arrive with clean, fresh skin. This minimizes the chance of skin irritation and also allows you to enjoy the maximum benefits of massage enhancements such as aromatherapy.
Pro tip: If you normally apply moisturizing products, choose ones with no fragrances or dyes that could interfere with your massage. You’ll also want to skip any perfumes, colognes, or strongly scented products, as these could irritate not just your own skin, but potentially your therapist’s skin as well!
Communicate Your Concerns
If you’re experiencing any skin sensitivity on the day of your appointment, be sure to let your therapist know before the session begins. For example, if you’re experiencing a rosacea flare-up or have any open sores, your therapist can avoid touching those areas.
It’s generally safe to receive a massage on areas affected by eczema or mild acne, but be sure to voice any concerns you might have about products, pressure, or skin sensitivity. Remember, your therapist’s #1 goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable, and relaxing session that won’t aggravate any symptoms.
Ready, Set, Massage!
It’s true that people with skin sensitivity may have a few more things to consider before, during, and after a massage session. However, with the tips above in mind, there’s no reason you can’t safely enjoy the benefits of massage — without your skin freaking out!
Our team of therapists at Simply Massage are ready to provide you with a relaxing massage session. And yes, we have plenty of products that are suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today to book your next massage in Vail or Avon.