All practices
Asian traditions
Warm-oil self-massage
Ayurvedic abhyanga
Warmed oil worked into the whole body before a shower. Deeply moisturising and slow by design.
About 15 minutes
Once or twice a week
How to do it
- 1Warm a light plant oil in your hands.
- 2Massage long strokes on the limbs and circles at the joints, three to five minutes.
- 3Let it sit for ten minutes, then shower with a gentle wash.
What the evidence says
The moisturising benefit of occlusive oils on dry skin is straightforward. The broader traditional claims are cultural rather than clinical.
Be careful if
- •Oils make surfaces slippery — take care in the shower.
- •Patch test if your skin is reactive; some oils do not suit acne-prone skin.
Others in this area
Practices are listed for general information only. Nothing here is medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment for any condition, and results are not promised. If something hurts, worsens, or worries you — or if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, managing a health condition or taking prescribed medication — speak to a doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner first.