Body Oiling: The Ancient Practice That Modern Women Are Rediscovering

‍"You are continuing a practice that has been fundamental to human self-care for the entire arc of recorded history."

Of all the body care practices that have come and gone across human history, oiling the body is among the oldest, the most universal, and — perhaps most intriguingly — among the most completely vindicated by modern dermatology. Cultures that knew nothing of each other, separated by thousands of miles and thousands of years, independently arrived at the same conclusion: that rubbing oil into the skin is one of the most fundamentally nourishing things a human being can do for their body.

A Brief and Beautiful History

In ancient Egypt, oils of moringa, castor, and sesame were applied daily to skin to protect against the desiccating desert heat. Egyptian medical texts describe oil-based preparations for skin conditions that read surprisingly like modern dermatological recommendations.

In ancient Greece and Rome, olive oil was central to daily hygiene. Athletes oiled their bodies before competition — partly to protect skin from abrasion, and partly based on an intuitive understanding that oiled skin was more resilient skin.

Ayurvedic medicine, developed in India over 3,000 years ago, placed daily oil application — called abhyanga — at the center of health practice. Daily self-massage with warm oil is described as providing benefits to every body system: it nourishes the tissues, improves circulation, regulates the nervous system, promotes longevity, and generates a deep sense of grounded wellbeing.

What Modern Science Says

Centuries of intuitive use are now backed by substantial research. Plant-based oils do several important things for skin that water-based creams and lotions cannot fully replicate.

First, oils are lipophilic — they are chemically compatible with the lipids that make up your skin's natural barrier. Oil-based ingredients integrate into it more completely than water-based ones, supporting its integrity and helping it keep moisture in and irritants out.

Second, many plant oils are rich in essential fatty acids — linoleic acid, oleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid — that are building blocks of healthy skin cell membranes. When the skin is depleted of these fatty acids through UV exposure, age, or environmental stress, topical application can directly replenish what was lost.

Third, plant oils are naturally rich in antioxidant compounds — tocopherols, carotenoids, polyphenols — that protect skin cells from oxidative stress.

The Mermaid Soul Body Oil: A Modern Interpretation

The Mermaid Soul Body Oil was formulated with this history in mind. Its seven-oil blend was chosen for specific properties: borage oil is the richest known plant source of gamma-linolenic acid for skin barrier repair. Evening primrose oil provides additional GLA alongside compounds that support skin's hormonal balance. Rosehip seed oil is prized for its concentration of natural retinoids and its ability to gradually improve skin tone. Linseed oil is rich in omega-3 ALA. Jojoba mimics the structure of skin's own sebum. Sunflower seed oil is lightweight and deeply compatible with sensitive skin. And Laminaria Digitata (sea kelp) extract brings the ocean's regenerative compounds into the blend.

How to Use It

Apply to slightly damp skin immediately after showering — the water on the surface helps distribute the oil and improves absorption. Two to four pumps is enough for the full body. Warm between your palms before applying. Work slowly. This is the part of the ritual that deserves the most presence.

You're not just moisturizing. You are continuing a practice that has been fundamental to human self-care for the entire arc of recorded history. That's worth doing with intention.