How can you best prep the ambience for a sensual massage?
Goicochea adds that along with the scalp and different sections of the torso and legs, the brain is one of the largest erogenous zones in the body. Since the brain helps move the needle when it comes to arousal, mood-setting, fragrance, and other sensory experiences are a major factors in how we view intimacy. To prepare your space ahead of a massage, professionals advise keeping its temperature no warmer than 78 degrees Farenheit, turning off all electric lights, and lighting candles instead. As for the right soundtrack? Opt for a calming instrumental playlist to quiet the mind.

What are some key components to consider when selecting a massage oil or candle?
Ultimately, the best conductor for a great body massage comes down to your preference in moisturizer, as well as the products you're most comfortable using on yourself or someone else. "We recommend using high-quality ingredients that are easily absorbed by the skin, like jojoba and almond oil. If available, add a few drops of orange blossom essential oil and jasmine for extra hydration and relaxation," senior vice president development and operations at THE WELL Vivi Garcia-Tunon says. "If using a massage candle, ensure your partner likes warm products applied to the skin, and try a bit of product on your hand before using it on them. I would avoid any candles with petroleum-based ingredients in favor of natural beeswax or soy wax."

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AESOP

Breathless

$35 AT AESOP

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The name of this top-rated massage oil perfectly describes how you'll likely leave your partner after using it on their neck, back, and shoulders.

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DAME PRODUCTS

Arousal Serum for Women Massage Oil

$30 AT AMAZON

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Your massage might get cut short, thanks to this lickable oil that uses cinnamon bark oil extract to leave a tingly sensation behind anywhere it's applied.

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MAUDE

Oil No. 0

$31 AT MAUDE

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"For years leading up to launching Oil No. 0, our company had been asked to create a line of body care products. When we finally decided to launch these offerings, we wanted essentials that both complemented our existing collection, and were for either self- and partner-use," Goicochea says of Maude's versatile bath and body collection.

"In developing this oil, we considered things like its texture, fragrance, and overall ingredients. Its extracted oils are cold-pressed, featuring vitamins B and E along with omegas-6 and 9. All Maude body care products have dual-functionality, and this one is intended for use as an intimate massage oil in addition to a full-body moisturizer."

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L'OCCITANE
Cocon de Sérénité Relaxing Massage Oil
$39 AT L'OCCITANE

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You might feel like you've been transported to the spa after using a few pumps of this silky floral and citrus-noted oil from L'Occitane.

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NEIMAN MARCUS

Large Massage Oil Candle

$75 AT NEIMAN MARCUS

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This is no ordinary candle: Not only is Kiki De Montparnasse's Massage Oil candle available in three different scents, but it also can be poured over the body (it never gets too hot).

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CHILLHOUSE

Have a Chill Night Body Oil

$48 AT CHILLHOUSE.COM

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"One to two pumps should be adequate," Holmes-Cardona notes of how much oil to use for each body part during a massage. "Any more might make things too slippery. But don't be afraid to grab a little more if you feel stuck or dry." This nightly option from Chillhouse uses blue tansy, plus sweet almond and calendula oils, to help increase oxygen and blood flow.

The 6 Best Massage Oils to Help Set the Mood

DAME PRODUCTS

Arousal Serum for Women Massage Oil

$30 AT AMAZON

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