Oils, Lotions, Creams, Gels, Powders What do you like?

As a Professional Massage Therapist, I can tell you that using the right massage lubricant is extremely important to the practice of massage. When I choose the massage products that I use in my business, I test them and live with them to find just the right one.
I have gone through many, searching for the "holy grail"; if you will.

The ones that didn't make it?

Biotone's basic massage oil - The favorite of many a massage therapist, but I find there is nothing special about it. For me, it is unremarkable. So, why use it?

Anything with vitamin E - While we're told that vitamin E is good for the skin, the result is is a sticky product. It is definitely not good for bodies covered with hair!

Talcum powder - There have been many studies which show that the use of talc is very dangerous for your health. Still, the FDA approves it, and it remains widely available to all; not unlike cancer- and tumor-causing sugar substitutes (such as those used in diet sodas). High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) anyone?

Sunflower oils - I can't say anything good about them.

Lubricants made with Red Wine (Grape) extracts - These are, literally, a headache to use. The properties of the product are absorbed through my hands, and I get an instant headache. Green grapes don't seem to have the same effect.

My favorites?

Pure Fiji - Hands down, the best massage oil I've used, to date. It is expensive, but this is a case where you get what you pay for.
Pure Fiji has an entire line of products made from mango, white ginger lily, pineapple and starfruit. They have creams, lotions, oils and many other products to chose from. These items can be purchased on my website, through the services of Amazon marketplace.

Bon Vital Natural Gel - For my clients that are naturally carpeted, this gel is the best because it does not pull the hair. Many therapists out there prefer to work only on clients that are smooth or clean shaven. With this product, there is no compromise when performing deep tissue or Swedish styles of massage.

I have tried and continually offer a variety of expeller pressed (without the use of chemicals) oils. Coconut is my favorite. I also use hemp, olive and grapeseed.

Ghee (clarified butter) - Some people may be surprised by its use, but it has properties that are said to be very nurturing to the skin. It was used by the Egyptians, thousands and thousands of years ago. They would rub it on the skin as well as rub it into their eyes ( I don't practice that one). Ghee is still used today by many Ayurvedic (India) practices. They have also used it for centuries.

Certified Organic Coconut powder - I use this for my Signature Coconut Energy Powder Rubdowns. Also based on Indian Ayurvedic traditions powder has been used for massage for centuries. Any of my clients will tell you that it leaves the skin feeling very invigorated. Try this massage!

I hope my clients appreciate the attention that I give to choice of massage products. I know that ultimately it becomes part of the overall experience. If clients walk away with a great experience, who cares about the products used? I do. I spend not only time but also money choosing what i feel is the best product that I can offer. The products I use are often premium products that carry a premium price tag to match.

-As a client, which massage products have you used that are exceptional?

OR

-As a therapist, which product(s) do you prefer to use on your clients?