Monoi is Tahiti's traditional beauty oil, and it is a favorite massage oil. It glides easily, melts on contact with warm skin and leaves a soft floral scent behind, which is why so many people keep a bottle by the bed or in the massage room. Here is how to use Monoi Tiki Tahiti as a massage oil, which scent to choose and a few practical tips.
Why monoi works as a massage oil
Monoi de Tahiti is fresh tiare flowers (Tahitian gardenia) steeped in refined coconut oil. Parfumerie Tiki has made it in Papeete since 1942, and every bottle of Monoi Tiki Tahiti oil holds a dried tiare flower. Because the base is coconut oil, it spreads smoothly over the skin, and the scent stays soft rather than overpowering. Learn more in what is monoi oil?
How to use monoi for massage
- Make sure it is liquid. Real monoi turns solid below 68°F (20°C), like any coconut oil. Stand the bottle in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes and it melts back into a clear golden oil. Why monoi hardens.
- Warm it in your hands. Pour a small amount into your palm and rub your hands together before touching the skin, especially in cool weather.
- Start small. A teaspoon or so covers a back or a pair of legs. Add a few more drops only if your hands start to drag.
- Use long, smooth strokes. Work over shoulders, back, arms and legs, then let the rest soak in. There is no need to wipe it off.
Which monoi scent is best for massage?
- Tiare: the original creamy gardenia scent of Tahiti and the most popular choice. What tiare smells like.
- Vanille: warm and sweet, a cozy pick for evenings. How to wear Vanille.
- Coco: a soft, non-floral coconut scent for anyone who prefers something subtle. More about Coco.
- Santal: woody and unisex, a good choice for a partner who does not like florals. More about Santal.
- Tipanie, Pitate and Ylang Ylang: delicate plumeria, the strongest floral jasmine, and sweet, exotic ylang ylang.
Curious about a scent before you choose? Read what sandalwood smells like, what vanilla smells like, what jasmine smells like, what ylang ylang smells like or plumeria flower meaning.
Not sure which one? Our monoi oil scent guide compares every scent side by side.
Tips before you start
- Patch test first. Monoi contains fragrance, so people with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies should apply a small amount to the inner arm and wait 24 hours.
- Protect fabrics. Lay down a towel you do not mind getting oily. Skip the red Rouge oil for massage, since its color can stain towels, sheets and clothing.
- Keep it for the body. Monoi is rich, so use only a drop on the face, or keep it for the body. See how to use monoi oil on skin.
- Finish with a shower. Pair the massage with the matching monoi soap so the same scent carries from shower to skin.
Buy authentic Monoi Tiki Tahiti
Hawaiian Resources Co. in Honolulu is the official U.S. importer of Monoi Tiki Tahiti. Every bottle comes direct from Parfumerie Tiki in Tahiti and ships from Hawai'i. Orders of $30 or more ship free in the U.S. (any two $15 oils get you there). Shop Tiare monoi oil, 4 fl oz, $15, or shop all monoi oils.
Massage with monoi: FAQ
Is coconut oil good for massage?
Coconut oil is a popular massage oil because it glides well and absorbs gradually. Monoi is coconut oil infused with tiare flowers, so it adds a soft scent.
How much monoi do I need for a massage?
About a teaspoon for a back or a pair of legs. Add a few drops at a time if your hands start to drag.
Why is my monoi solid?
Monoi turns solid below about 68°F (20°C). Stand the bottle in warm water for a few minutes and it melts.
Can I use Rouge for massage?
No. Rouge contains iodine for tanning and can stain towels, sheets and clothing. Choose Tiare, Vanille, Coco or Santal instead.
Keep reading: How to make perfume last longer · Monoi oil vs coconut oil · What is monoi oil?