Should I be oiling my entire body?

Will it pave the way for a happier, healthier, less winter-hating me?

In a time of bitter coldness and related sadness, my skin falters. It flakes and dries, leaving me perpetually uncomfortable and getting paler by the minute. Baggy jeans and blazers are only a bandaid solution, but I want to feel good in winter, too.

A few months back, Certified Sex Coach Georgia Grace posited a one-liner about the joys of her daily body oiling devotion in her newsletter. The idea has stuck with me ever since.

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Although I briefly dabbled in abhyanga (an Ayurvedic practice) a few years ago, is it time to jump back into the bathroom with oils? Will it pave the way for a happier, healthier, less winter-hating me?

Good for the skin and the mind

I asked Carli Alman, co-founder and co-host of That Beauty Podcast, to explain the practice. She defines body oiling as “the process of massaging in oil on your body – much like you would your regular body lotion, moisturiser or butter”. It’s a simple tweak in the normal showering routine, but one that has cemented cult-like status among devotees.

Carli explains skin hydration is just one of the body oiling benefits. “Oils are emollients, and emollients help moisturise and soften skin by essentially trapping in moisture and preventing water loss.” Because they are rich in fatty acids, they also “add nourishment” for the softest, most supple skin.

Talking about her own body oil practice, Georgia Grace speaks about the application as a self-care process. “I’m sensually and mindfully bringing touch and awareness to my skin whilst also doing something that feels really nice and makes my body feel good after as well.”

Her daily massage, working up her body from the feet, is soothing, grounding and sensual, acting as a pseudo-body scan in the process. In the morning, she uses this as a mindful moment before starting the day – while moisturising and nourishing at the same time.

As a ritual at night, the practice is slower, more sensual and mindful, acting as a calming end to the day. I imagine candles lit, soft tunes playing and the gorgeous aroma of oils lingering in the air and on the skin.

Carli speaks of the benefits gleaned through the act of massage, too. “Using massage techniques to spread the oil can help stimulate blood flow and circulation, and can help relieve tension in your muscles.”

Starting the body oiling process

As a general practice, Carli explains you can apply it just like a body moisturiser, but her suggested routine is designed to take your body and mind to the next level. First, take a warm bath or shower. “This can help soften your skin and open the pores,” she says. Lightly dry your body, making sure it’s still slightly damp for easier application and better absorption.

Pump a small amount of oil into your palms and warm it by rubbing your hands together (“This is a saviour in winter!”). Then apply it to the skin, using small circular motions and gentle pressure. Do as Georgia does and work up the body, not neglecting the chest and breasts (but steering clear of the vulva). Once you’ve applied, wait a few minutes for the oil to absorb before putting clothes on.

“It can fuck your clothes up,” Georgia tells me. It’s important to choose an oil that doesn’t stain or ruin clothing, and her pick is Go-To’s Oil Over. Carli has a few favourites of her own: L’Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil, La Mav Ayurvedic Body Oil in Unwind and The Jojoba Company’s Australian Jojoba (a non-greasy option that’s great for all skin types).

Different oils have their own specific properties and potential benefits. Coconut oil is deeply moisturising but has a nasty habit of clogging pores, so it should be avoided by those prone to breakouts.

Avocado oil can be a little greasy but is rich in vitamins, while rosehip oil is high in antioxidants. Squalane also fits in here – “a lightweight emollient that’s non-comedogenic and amazing for dry skin,” Carli says. If you’re body oil resistant, she recommends a shower oil. It gives the same benefits without leaving a lingering film.

With gorgeously ripe skin, I’ve got a newfound appreciation for this body and this season. Winter gets me down, but oils perk me up. It’s as simple as that.

For more on the benefits of body oiling, head here.