There are many lubricating options for massage therapists to use, such as massage oils, lotions and creams. Massage creams are used to prevent any discomfort during the massage, as rubbing the skin can cause friction. Massage cream is a pleasant way to help the massage flow without any discomfort. Most massage creams have ingredients that are good for the skin and help moisturise it as well.

Using a massage cream helps the massage therapist because of its consistency. It is thicker than lotion is, which is generally thicker than oil. Because of its thick consistency, a little lmassage cream lasts much longer and there is less need to reapply it as often. This is especially good for deep-tissue massage, because the massage therapist needs a bit more of a grip when delivering that kind of massage.

Massage cream is very beneficial because it is useful not only in aiding the massage, but because it actually moisturises the skin as it does so. Many massage creams offer vitamins or other ingredients like shae butter or cocoa butter to add an extra moisturising component.

Many massage creams have a scent added to them to add to the massage experience. One of these scents is lavender, which is supposed to help produce calm, relaxed feelings in the person being massaged. Another is peppermint, which is supposed to help energise the user.