Chocolate Massage
Chocolate is generally considered bad for the skin and responsible for problems such as skin breakouts and acne. However, thanks to a recent trend in spa treatments, chocolate is now being viewed in a more positive light.
Chocolate body massages and facials are now in demand for a number of reasons.
Some people also insist that they get the same high from chocolate massages as they do from eating chocolate – but without the calories.
Cocoa has been used as an ingredient in skin and beauty products from ancient times. The benefits of cocoa butter and its moisturizing powers are well known. Nowadays, using a cocoa base, massage lotions and oils are used to slough off dead skin, revitalize skin cells and boost circulation. The caffeine present in chocolate also helps firm up the skin when applied topically. Additionally, the anti-oxidant properties of chocolate help protect the skin against damage and may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.
For best results from any therapeutic chocolate treatment, ensure that the lotion or oil used contains at least 35% cocoa. The darker the chocolate, the better the benefits, so choose carefully. You can opt for chocolate body scrubs, chocolate facials, chocolate body wraps or a chocolate massage to maximize the benefits of this delicious new trend.
How to Make a Chocolate Massage Lotion
If your interest is piqued but don’t want to splurge on a fancy spa treatment, why not make your own chocolate body massage lotion at home? You can do this with just a few simple ingredients that are easily available. The following recipe will help keep your skin smooth, silky and luscious:
- Using a double boiler, bring water to a boil and turn off the heat.
- Add one ounce of cocoa butter to the top pan of the double boiler making sure that it does not come into contact with any water.
- As the cocoa butter melts and the smell of chocolate spreads, add half an ounce of almond oil.
- Stir through till completely mixed and the lotion has no lumps.
- Take off the boiler and let this concoction cool.
- Check the lotion’s consistency. If you want it thinner, add more almond oil and heat it further. If you would like it thicker, add more cocoa butter and let it heat. Let the lotion cool down before the next step.
- Add a few drops of chocolate scented essential oil. If you would like your lotion to look more like chocolate you can also add some brown food coloring.
- Pour into a clean glass container and close tightly with a lid.
The cocoa butter and almond oil work to keep your skin soft and moisturized. This lotion is not sticky or heavy and can be washed off easily making it ideal for home massages and romantic interludes.
Chocolate Massage Oil
The best chocolate massage oil should contain a large percentage of cocoa paste along with vegetable or almond oil. Cocoa paste is high in minerals, vitamins and may contain small flecks of cocoa beans as well making it ideal for exfoliation and skin peels. Chocolate massage oil helps improve circulation and softens the skin leaving it looking bright and youthful. In addition, the chocolate scent helps relax and soothe the body and mind and creates a more decadent therapeutic experience.
Before using any new massage oil such as chocolate, always do a small skin test to make sure there is no allergic reaction. Heating the massage oil gently before use will also improve the application process and encourage deeper moisturizing.
