Sensual or erotic massages are one of the yummiest things you can offer your partner. But what if you wanted to go the extra mile or step up your massage game to impress your lover? Well, you can do that by simply adding a massage candle.
And while there are countless options out there, you should still be aware of some things before you hit the buy button and even more points of caution when you’re actually using them.
But don’t worry, because this simple massage candle guide has you covered.
SHOPPING FOR MASSAGE CANDLES
If you’re not sure where to start looking or you’re worried about quality, the safest bets are skincare brands that make massage candles (instead of adult toy companies). These candles are specifically made to nourish the epidermis. Or look for what some fancy-dancy spas use.
That being said, there are plenty (and I do mean PLENTY) of adult products that have perfect safe, and utterly divine massage candles that will be fantastic for the skin and very safe to use as well.
What makes them safe?
It all boils down to the ingredients.
Massage candles are made from soy wax – NOT paraffin. This is because soy has a lower melting point and will melt without getting super-hot. Even the wicks should be soy-based.
In fact, a massage candle should have such a low melting point that the heat from your body is enough to liquefy it. You can go as far as scooping out a finger-full from the cup/tin if you need to (but that sort of defeats the purpose).
Aside from the wax, you’ll usually see a ton of different body oils like shea butter, cocoa butter, apricot kernel oil, sweet almond oil, etc. Then there are essential oils or other scents to make you feel something like relaxed, energized, or getting in the mood.
You might hear about some using beeswax, but they should be tempered with other ingredients to lower the melting point. And it’s daintily not something to use if you’re going the DIY route.
So, when you’re buying, first check the ingredients to make sure they’re using the right stuff. Also, if you’re worried about sensitive skin, there are several options out there that are “scentless.” The product should also get extra bonus points if it doesn’t leave oil stains on fabric and can easily be washed out of your sheets!
SETTING UP A MASSAGE CANDLE
Even if you’re about to lather down your partner, remember a candle is still a candle. You need to follow simple flame rules regardless of what you’re doing with the wax.
- Always keep the candle in sight, never leave it unattended
- Keep it out of reach of children or pets
- Put the tin/cup on a stable surface (not a rickety stool)
- Keep the flames away from flammable objects
- ALWAYS blow out the flame before pouring the wax
- Know where your fire extinguisher is (no, I’m not joking)
These rules might seem “duh” to most people. But you know they are there because some people have been hurt by being careless or just plain dense.
HOW TO USE A MASSAGE CANDLE PROPERLY
Using your new little friend is quite simple actually. You just have to follow a few extra steps beyond normal massage oil.
- Light the massage candle and let it sit for 5-15 minutes or until there is a pool of liquid on the top. How long depends on the size of the candle and the ingredients.
- Make sure your hands are clean. You don’t want to introduce germs into the product.
- Blow out the flame and wait 1-2 minutes.
- Pour a little oil on the back of your hand to test the heat. A normal temperature is around 40 degrees. This might be great for some but too hot for others. Wait as long as you need until it’s the perfect temperature.
- Keeping the container fairly close to the body, drizzle the oil around where you want to massage. Don’t pour too much because you don’t want to make a mess.
- It’s always better to first put the oil on “thicker” areas. E.g. the thighs vs the lower back.
- Or, even better, pour it into your hand and then spread it along the skin if you’re worried about the temperature.
- Set the candle aside in a nearby safe place while you’re massaging.
- You might have to relight the candle to get more warm oil for the next body sections.
- When you’re done, always put the lid back on to keep dust and other nasties out.
IMPORTANT: Massage candle oils should NEVER go in sensitive places like the vagina or anus. It is NOT a sexual lubricant. In fact, the oils can damage any latex products (like condoms or dental dams) and make the break).
MASSAGE CANDLE BONUS
If you or your partner is interested in wax play, but are nervous to dive in (or you just don’t like the heat levels of those candles) massage candles are a great way to play!
Also, you don’t have to break the bank to get your hand on one of these. There are plenty of affordable options out there. Even the regular $20 ones will get you several massages out of them. And, just think of the amazing skin you’ll have after!
