The use of oils is a complex subject and the research is ongoing and often controversial. The type of oil you should use depends on many factors. Some are cultural preferences, family traditions, skin types, allergies, availability, trends, cost, and the health of the baby. Cold-pressed Vegetable Oils Cold pressed oil is oil which has been produced at the lowest possible temperature without any further pressing. The introduction of heat to the process of making oil will degrade the flavour, nutritional value, and colour of the oil. Heat, however, increases the yield. For this reason, cold pressed oil tends to be more expensive and is of higher quality. Some advantages for use in infant massage Cold-pressed, perfume-free vegetable oils typically: • Contain beneficial ingredients such as nutrients, antibacterial qualities and vitamins. • Benefits the baby as they can smell their parent’s natural smell, which is beneficial in the bonding process. It also makes it easier to distinguish the odour of oil that may be rancid. • Are edible and therefore recognized as digestible food by the skin and body. • Nourishes the skin forming a moisturising and protective and barrier, which is important for infant skin. • Are a good medium for baby massage. Some disadvantages for use in infant massage: • Will become rancid after a period of time due to oxidation (like any high quality food). • Can vary in quality. Poor-quality oil may contain unwanted components or contaminants. Recommendations • Vegetable oil can be kept in a cool, dark place in a small container to help preserve it. • Different types of oils can be tried in order to find the oil that best suits the baby. • For babies with eczema, if the area has an open wound, is infected or if the baby has an allergy to the oil, then oil should be avoided. If a doctor has prescribed a cream for eczema, it might be suitable to use. • The parent should ask their healthcare professional if there are concerns regarding allergies. Mineral and Synthetic Oils Mineral oil is derived from petroleum, while synthetic oil is produced in the laboratory. Some disadvantages for use in infant massage: • It is too greasy and sticky for handling the baby which is unsafe. • Most mineral and synthetic oils usually have an added scent. The odour, which is usually too stimulating to be used for infant massage, can therefore create a barrier between the parent and the baby. • They lack natural vitality such as vitamins, nutrients and antibacterial qualities. The International Association of Infant Massage recommends that babies be massaged with a high-quality (preferably organically grown), unscented, cold-pressed vegetable oil. Essential Oils Although essential oils, also referred to as aromatherapy oils, are considered natural and derived from plants, they are very different from the vegetable oils referred to here. Essential oils are obtained by complex chemical processes, including distillation. They are extremely concentrated. They are used for therapeutic reasons and proper training in their use is necessary. The aromatherapy field itself does not advocate the use of essential oils for babies. Essential oils may well be too over-stimulating for a baby’s developing body and nervous system. Essentials oils have an effect on the brain and on cells. They also mask personal odours, which are important for bonding. The International Association of Infant Massage strongly recommends avoiding the use of essential oils for the practice of infant massage.