What Oil Is Best For Baby Massage?

What’s the Best Oil for Baby Massage?

One of the questions I get asked all the time is, “What oil should I use to massage my baby?”

I’ve been teaching baby massage for over 10 years now, and my answer is always the same — go for a plant-based oil like sunflower seed or coconut oil.

And here’s why 👇

🌻 Safe if it ends up in their mouth

Let’s be honest, those little hands are going to end up in their mouths sooner or later!

If you’re using a plant-based oil, it’s totally fine — their little bodies will just break it down naturally.

💧 Gentle on their skin (and eyes!)

Plant-based oils are packed with lovely nutrients that help to nourish your baby’s skin. And if a tiny bit gets near their eyes, it won’t sting like a perfumed one might.

🤱 Helps with bonding

Our natural scent plays a big part in how babies bond with us. Highly perfumed oils can mask that smell — and we don’t want that! Coconut or sunflower seed oil have a really mild, natural smell, perfect for those cosy connection moments.

✨ Quick safety check

In all my years of teaching baby massage, I’ve never had a baby react to sunflower seed oil — but I still always recommend a quick patch test. Just pop a little oil on the inside of your baby’s wrist and wait an hour. If the skin looks clear (no redness or bumps), you’re good to go!

So there you have it — my tried and tested advice for choosing a baby massage oil.

Vicky x