Massage candles

Erotic candles are made to do two things at once: set the light and warmth of a candle in the room, and leave something on the skin you can actually massage with. The massage candles in this section come from the Luxuria Ardes line: scented candles made with shea butter, enriched with sensual aromas to intensify and stimulate intimate relationships, so the mood and the massage come from the same 100 ml jar.

What they have in common

Both candles share the same formulation. Shea butter is known for keeping skin hydrated and soft, with firming and emollient properties that leave a feeling of relief and softness; it is rich in vitamins A and E and has a regenerating, elasticising action. Both are petrolatum free and free from dyes, which makes them a comfortable choice for a nourishing massage and suitable even for more sensitive skin.

Choosing between the two scents

The real difference is the fragrance, so pick the one that suits the atmosphere you have in mind.

• Luxuria Ardes Massage Candle Chocolate — a sophisticated, enveloping combination of warm, comforting notes, for a relaxing and intimate evening in. The gourmand side of the range.
• Luxuria Ardes Massage Candle Strawberry Grapes — the same warm, comforting character with a fruitier sweetness, for anyone who prefers a brighter, less cocoa-led scent.

Neither is stronger or richer than the other: the formulation is identical, so the choice is purely a matter of taste. If you are buying as a gift and you are not sure, chocolate tends to be the safer bet; strawberry grapes is the more unusual one.

How they fit with the rest of the massage range

A candle is the slow, atmospheric option. If you want the massage itself to last longer, or you are working on larger areas, take a look at our massage oils, which come in a wider choice of formulas. For a warming or tingling sensation on the skin instead of a scented one, see the stimulating massage gel section.