Massage therapist used strong peppermint essential oil

I get massages regularly, and this has never happened to me before. The massage therapist seemed great at first, but I started to feel a slight burning and cooling sensation on my back. When I asked about the oil she was using, she mentioned that it contained peppermint essential oil. As the massage continued, the sensation became increasingly uncomfortable, so I asked her to stop using it. By that point, the feeling was very noticeable, and I asked if she could please remove the oil from my body because I couldn’t relax or enjoy the massage with that sensation. She didn’t seem sure how to handle it and left the room for a while, eventually returning with a towel and some water. I was hoping the sensation would subside, but it didn’t, so I ended the massage early and went home to shower and wash it off. She did not charge. I've used many different oils in my day and don't have sensitive skin, it just seemed too strong. When I asked her more details she said "well it is medical grade". The feeling subsided as I got home and washed it all off. I'm curious if people would be bothered by someone using something like this without asking first and also letting you know to expect that feeling peppermint oil has. I was pretty shocked at how she thought this was completely normal to use without asking me first. Happy it didn't cause a reaction and learned to always check on what they use!

Posted Feb 7, 2026, 10:58 PM UTC

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