Sometimes there’s nothing like a massage to alleviate the stresses of the day and tense muscles. There is also evidence that regular massages can complement treatments for cancer, depression, anxiety and HIV by improving your quality of life. The quality of a massage ultimately relies on hands and technique. Ask your massage therapist about using creams to help treat ailments and improve your overall experience.

Hydrating massage cream moisturizes rough areas of the body as it facilitates the massage. A massage therapist may use thicker emollients for the feet and lighter water-based creams on the back and shoulders. Extremely dry skin benefits most from oil-based massage creams that are gently worked into the skin. A conscientious therapist will avoid rubbing the product completely into your skin, as doing so decreases the moisture-locking effects.

Scented creams can promote relaxation during the massage. Aromatherapy, in which essential oils are added to the creams, may increase your overall well-being during a massage session. Essential oils are derived from a variety of flowers, such as lavender, as well as trees, such as melaleuca, also known as tea tree oil. Certain scents may help with anxiety, stress, fatigue and sleeping problems. According to the National Cancer Institute, essential oils may even alleviate issues caused by fungus, bacteria and viruses.

Some massage creams can help enhance the effects of massage on severe pain in the muscles and the joints. Menthol is a common ingredient in pain-relieving massage creams; it works by numbing the affected area. A therapist may use it to treat chronic back pain, arthritis and certain injuries. Such massage creams should not be applied to open wounds, although they can be used on bruises.

One of the worst mistakes you can make during a massage session is to let your massage therapist pick out a cream without discussing it with you. This is especially the case if you have sensitive skin or allergies to fragrances, botanicals and herbs. Signs of a reaction to a product might include rash, hives and peeling skin. As your masseuse to test a product on your skin in advance, or bring your own massage cream.