Many people find that nothing is more satisfying than a good massage after a hard day's work.

And a massage with essential oils may bring about more benefits than just a relaxing rubdown would.

Essential oils, or aromatherapy oils - extracted from plant sources - are increasingly popular because of their
claimed therapeutic effects.

Mr Jon Tay, a certified aromatherapist and the South-east Asia representative for the International Federation of Aromatherapists, said the more popular essential oils used include lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree and peppermint.

Lavender oil has been touted to soothe and relax the body. Eucalyptus oil is said to alleviate respiratory conditions.

Tea tree oil is supposed to be an immune system booster and peppermint claims to help increase alertness.

However, essential oils are very concentrated and should not be used undiluted, said Mr Tay.

"Undiluted essential oils may bum the skin and cause allergies, especially if a person's skin is very sensitive. Essential oils are be powerful and we need to use them with care," he added.
 
For safe use, essential oils need to be blended with a medium. Called carrier oils, common mediums include almond, olive and jojoba oil. There should be about three drops of essential oil to 10ml of carrier oil, said Mr Tay.

In order to gain the maximum benefits of essential oils, this mixing with carrier oils should be done on the spot before the mixture is rubbed into the skin.

Once mixed with a carrier oil the blended essential oils have a short lifespan of two months before they start to turn rancid, compromising therapeutic efficacy,
said Mr Tay.

Despite the touted benefits, having a massage with essential oils may not be suitable for some people. Said Dr Ang Chee Beng, a consultant dermatologist at Ang Skin and Hair Clinic: "For those allergic to fragrances, certain massage oils may pose a problem because they contain fragrances in their ingredients. Allergic contact dermititis - an itchy rash - may result."

People with oily skin should also avoid using massage oils to prevent pimples from forming on the body, said Dr Ang.

Those suffering from chronic and acute health conditions should consult a doctor before using essential oils, said Mr Tay.

FACIAL OILS NO MAGIC BULLET

Wrinkles, pimples, brown spots, dry skin and rashes.

Many women - and maybe men would shout for joy if there was ever a magic bullet that could eliminate those skin woes.

Over the years, facial oils - including jojoba, rosehip and tea tree - have become popular because they are touted as "natural" ingredients that can revitalise the skin.

Most of these oils - sold at many cosmetic counters and natural food stores - are often said to be good moisturisers.

Some have other claims like the ability to lighten scars (jojoba oil), reduce acne (tea tree oil) and plump out wrinkles (sweet almond oil).

But can we trust them to work?

Dermatologists that Mind Your Body spoke to are doubtful of the accuracy of such claims.

Dr Wang Yi Shi, a consultant dermatologist at Changi General Hospital, said: "I will not recommend facial oils for anti-inflammatory and moisturising purposes as there are many other superior and better studied products available."

Agreeing, Dr Ang Chee Beng, a consultant dermatologist at Ang Skin and Hair Clinic, said: "The studies concerning such ingredients are not robust.

"There are a lot of theoretical benefits based on anecdotes. Their use in cosmetics and over-the-counter products is fine.

"But in order for them to be prescribed as a medical-grade compound - like retin-A or vitamin C - there needs to be bigger studies to prove the benefits."

Both Dr Ang and Dr Wang do not recommend the use of facial oils.

"There is no clear evidence that they are essential to a person's skincare routine," said Dr Wang.

Facial oils aside, a general tip for good skin is the use of an effective sunblock.

"This prevents ageing changes caused by sunlight and pigmentation problems," said Dr Ang.

Still, for those who want to try facial oils, there are two groups that should tread carefully in doing so.

Dr Chris Foo, a dermatology specialist at Raffles Hospital, said: "Individuals with oily skin who are prone to acne breakouts should take extra care when using facial oils."

Said Dr Wang: "People with underlying skin conditions such as eczema or broken skin should avoid using facial oils. They are more prone to developing an allergic reaction to the plants or fragrances present in the oils."