Ayurvedic massage oils are one of the easiest ways to incorporate Ayurvedic-inspired care into your daily routine. They don't require specialized knowledge or lengthy ceremonies—the key is regularity, mindfulness, and matching the oil to your skin's needs and well-being.
In Ayurveda, massage is considered a part of daily health care, and oil serves as a carrier of plant ingredients and supports the skin's natural barrier. This makes skincare less of a cosmetic treatment and more of a moment of pause and regeneration.
If you are interested in why oil massage works and what mechanisms are behind it , check also: Effectiveness of Ayurvedic massage oils - how do they work?
How to use Ayurvedic oils - face / body / scalp
Facial massage
Apply 2–3 drops of oil to slightly damp skin on your face and neck. Spread it between your hands, then use gentle, upward and outward motions to smooth the oil from the center of your face.
Mini-instructions:
- forehead - movements from the center to the temples
- cheeks - up and out
- jaw - from the chin towards the ears
Time: 2-3 minutes.
Body massage
It is best to apply the oil after bathing, when the skin is slightly damp.
- arms and legs - long, sliding movements
- belly - clockwise
- back - movements from bottom to top
Time: 5 minutes.
Scalp massage
Apply a small amount of oil to your fingertips and rub in circular motions over the entire surface of your scalp.
Time: 3-5 minutes.
Checklist - when to use the oil
✔ when the skin is dry or tight
✔ for fatigue
✔ before bed
✔ after bathing
✔ in periods of increased stress
When is massage particularly helpful?
- when the skin is dehydrated
- with a feeling of tightness
- for dull skin
- for dry hair ends
- when the facial muscles are tense
Regularity is more important than intensity.

How often should you use Ayurvedic massage oils?
- Face: daily
- Body: 2-3 times a week
- Scalp: 1-2 times a week
In winter the frequency can be increased.
Step-by-step rituals - morning / evening / weekend
Morning ritual (2–3 min)
- Facial cleansing
- Tonic or essence
- Oil
- Short massage
Evening ritual (5 min)
- Makeup removal
- Serum
- Oil
- Face and neck massage
Weekend ritual (10-15 min)
- Oiling the scalp
- Facial massage
- Body oil
Oil comparison: which one for what?
| The need for skin | Oil |
|---|---|
| dryness | sesame |
| sensitivity | almond |
| relief | coconut |
| problematic skin | neem |
| tiredness | oils with adaptogens |
Ayurvedic oils and the season
Winter - thicker and more nourishing oils
Spring - light, regulating
Summer - coconut, almond
Autumn - soothing and regenerating
Can the oil be combined with serum and cream?
Yes.
Order:
cleansing → tonic → serum → oil → (optional cream and oil on top)
Common Massage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- too much pressure
- excess oil
- irregularity
- haste
Examples of massage sequences for different skin types
Dry skin
slow movements, nourishing oils
Sensitive skin
light stroking, soothing oils
Oily skin
shorter movements, light oils
Cosmetic oils - natural care from Orientana
Summary
Ayurvedic massage oils are a simple way to incorporate a daily skincare ritual that supports the skin on your face, body, and scalp. Regular massage improves skin comfort, helps maintain its elasticity, and introduces a layer of conscious self-care.
FAQ
How to use Ayurvedic massage oils?
Apply a small amount to the skin and massage gently.
Can Ayurvedic oils be used daily?
Yes, especially on the face.
How much oil should I use for facial massage?
2–3 drops.
Should the oil be applied to wet or dry skin?
Preferably slightly damp.
How long should a facial massage last?
2–3 minutes.
Are oils suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, with the right selection.
Can the oil be used on the scalp?
Yes.
How often should you oil your scalp?
1–2 times a week.
Do Ayurvedic oils clog pores?
Not if they are well chosen.
Can the oil be combined with the serum?
Yes.
When is the best time to get a massage?
Morning or evening.
Does facial massage improve the appearance of skin?
Yes.
Do Ayurvedic oils help with dry skin?
Yes.
Can a body massage be done after bathing?
Yes, this is the best moment.
Does regularity matter?
Yes, crucial.
Mineral oil - why doesn't Orientana use it in natural cosmetics?
Sesame oil - properties and use in modern skin and hair care






