If you have been browsing massage menus in Inverness, "Thai oil massage" and "aromatherapy massage" can sound almost interchangeable. They are not. In short, a Thai oil massage brings Thai-style pressure and stretching together with oil work, while an aromatherapy massage is an oil massage built around essential oils and scent, usually at a slower, …
If you have been browsing massage menus in Inverness, “Thai oil massage” and “aromatherapy massage” can sound almost interchangeable. They are not. In short, a Thai oil massage brings Thai-style pressure and stretching together with oil work, while an aromatherapy massage is an oil massage built around essential oils and scent, usually at a slower, gentler pace.
This guide from Cholly’s Thai Massage & Therapy in Inverness explains how the two compare, so you can choose the one that suits what you want from your appointment.
Table of Content
What Is Thai Oil Massage?
“Thai oil massage” is not one standardised treatment. The name is used loosely, and what you receive depends on the therapist. Generally, it describes a massage that borrows from traditional Thai bodywork, such as pressure along the body’s energy lines, joint mobilisation and assisted stretching, and adds the smoother, warmer feel of oil massage strokes.
Traditional Thai massage on its own is normally done clothed, without oil. Bringing oil into the session changes the experience. It tends to feel more flowing and less intense, though pressure can still range from gentle to firm.
At Cholly’s, the closest match is the Combined Thai & Oil Massage, covered below. It is one therapist’s approach, so it should not be read as a definition of every Thai oil massage you might come across.
What Is Aromatherapy Massage?
An aromatherapy massage is a massage in which essential oils, which are concentrated plant extracts, are diluted in a carrier oil and applied with slow, flowing strokes. NHS patient information from Sherwood Forest Hospitals describes it as a gentle treatment, with oils chosen to suit the individual and offered alongside medical care rather than in place of it.
Scent is a large part of the experience, so personal preference matters. Some people enjoy lavender, while others find strong fragrances overpowering. If you have asthma or allergies, it is sensible to tell your therapist beforehand, as the same NHS leaflet advises.
Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy. It is best thought of as a way to unwind, not as a treatment for any medical condition.
Thai Oil Massage vs Aromatherapy Massage: Key Differences
The two styles overlap, and techniques and pressure vary between therapists. As a general guide:
Aspect | Thai oil massage | Aromatherapy massage |
Main focus | Releasing tension and easing stiffness, with relaxation alongside | Relaxation and a calming sensory experience |
Techniques | Pressure points, assisted stretching and joint mobilisation, plus oil strokes | Long, slow, flowing oil strokes |
Use of oils | Oil is used for part or all of the session | Oil is used throughout |
Essential oils and fragrance | Not necessarily scented | Essential oils are central to the treatment |
Pressure and movement | Can include firmer pressure and active stretching | Usually light to medium, with no stretching |
Overall experience | More varied, with some movement | Quiet, still and unhurried |
Who might prefer it | People wanting muscle work and relaxation together | People wanting a gentle, scented treatment |
At Cholly’s | Combined Thai & Oil Massage (60, 90 or 120 minutes) | Aromatic Oil Massage (60 or 90 minutes) |
Which Massage Should You Choose?
The right choice comes down to what you want from the session and how you like pressure to feel. A few pointers:
- You like the idea of Thai techniques but want oil too. A Thai oil massage is a good fit, particularly if you are new to Thai massage and want a softer introduction.
- You want a scented, calming treatment. Aromatherapy massage puts the sensory side first. Check you are comfortable with strong smells before you book.
- You prefer lighter pressure. The aromatic style stays gentle throughout. Thai-based treatments can be adjusted, but they involve more stretching and movement.
- You prefer firmer pressure. Say so when booking. If you want sustained, focused pressure on specific tight areas, a deep tissue massage is a different treatment again.
Pressure is a matter of personal preference, and what is available depends on your therapist, so always say how you would like it.
Can You Get a Thai and Oil Massage at Cholly's in Inverness?
Yes. Cholly’s Combined Thai & Oil Massage blends traditional Thai pressure-point work and assisted stretching with a flowing oil massage in one session. Cholly describes splitting the time roughly in halves, starting with the Thai work and finishing with oil.
The Thai part is done clothed, so loose, comfortable clothing is best. For the oil part, you are covered with a sheet. Sessions run for 60, 90 or 120 minutes, priced at £55, £80 and £105. Cholly adjusts the depth of both parts, so mention whether you would like it firmer or gentler.
The website notes that this treatment is not suitable during pregnancy, because of the stretching. Cholly also offers a separate Pregnancy Massage.
For a more scent-led session, the menu includes a separate Aromatic Oil Massage, which uses essential oils blended into a warm carrier oil with no stretching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Thai oil massage and aromatherapy massage?
Thai oil massage combines Thai techniques such as pressure points and stretching with oil work. Aromatherapy massage focuses on essential oils and slow, flowing strokes, usually without stretching.
Does aromatherapy massage always use essential oils?
Yes, essential oils are what make it aromatherapy. They are normally diluted in a carrier oil. A plain oil massage without them is simply an oil massage.
Is Thai oil massage always performed with firm pressure?
No. Pressure varies between therapists and can usually be adjusted. At Cholly’s, the depth can be set to your preference.
Can Thai oil massage and aromatherapy massage be combined?
In principle, a therapist could use scented oils in a Thai oil session. At Cholly’s, however, the two are listed as separate treatments, so ask before booking if you would like a particular combination.
Which massage should I choose for relaxation?
If relaxation is your only goal, a slower, gentler oil treatment is usually the simpler option. If you enjoy stretching and want some muscle work too, a Thai oil massage can still leave you relaxed.
Does Cholly's offer aromatherapy massage?
Cholly’s offers an Aromatic Oil Massage, which uses essential oils in a carrier oil. The website does not call it “aromatherapy massage”, so contact Cholly’s if you would like to confirm it matches what you have in mind.
Explore Combined Thai & Oil Massage in Inverness
If you are still undecided, the combined treatment is a sensible place to start, and Cholly can talk you through the options when you book. You can read the full details, including durations and prices, on the Combined Thai & Oil Massage page, or book an appointment directly.
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Cholly's Thai Massage & Therapy is a trusted wellness centre in Inverness, offering authentic Traditional Thai Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Combined Thai and Oil Massage, and Gua Sha Facial Treatment. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping clients relieve stress, ease muscle tension, and improve overall wellbeing through personalised care.
