Intamo Space Oddity Eucalyptus Peppermint Massage Candle

Intamo Space Oddity is a massage candle that does two jobs: light it for a fresh eucalyptus and peppermint scent, then pour the melted wax into your hands as a warm massage oil. It's hand-poured from a plant-based blend in a matte ceramic jar with a built-in spout, so the pouring part is tidy rather than a guessing game. If you like a clean, minty scent more than sweet vanilla or floral, this is the one in Intamo's line to look at.

What it's made from

Intamo builds the candle on soy wax, with shea butter, cocoa butter, sweet almond oil and vitamin E blended in. The scent comes from eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils rather than synthetic fragrance, and the wick is lead-free. The brand describes every ingredient as plant-based and cruelty-free. Soy wax melts at a lower temperature than paraffin, which is why it can be poured onto skin once the flame is out and it has had a moment to cool.

How to use a massage candle safely

1. Light the wick and let it burn until a shallow pool of melted wax covers the top.
2. Blow out the flame. Never pour while it's lit.
3. Wait a few seconds, then test a drop on the inside of your wrist. It should feel warm, not hot.
4. Pour a little into your palm first, or straight onto the skin from the spout if you've checked the temperature.
5. Massage it in with long, slow strokes; it turns into a silky oil as it spreads.

Pour onto large areas such as the back, shoulders and legs rather than the face. Keep it away from your eyes and from intimate areas: peppermint and eucalyptus oils have a strong, cooling character that's pleasant on the back and unwelcome on delicate skin.

Setting the scene

You don't have to use it for massage every time. Burned on its own, Space Oddity fills a room with a clear eucalyptus and peppermint scent, which works well in a bathroom or bedroom before a partner massage. Intamo quotes a burn time of 30 to 40 hours, so it lasts through plenty of evenings whether you pour it or simply let it burn. Trim the wick before each use and keep the jar on a heat-safe surface, away from curtains, pets and anything flammable. Never leave it burning unattended.

Things to know before you buy

It contains sweet almond oil, so skip it if you have a tree-nut allergy. As with any oil-based product, keep it away from latex condoms, which oils can weaken, and from silicone toys. It isn't a personal lubricant. Lay a towel down before massaging, since melted wax and oil can mark sheets. Once the candle is used up, the ceramic jar is sturdy enough to rinse out and reuse.

Specifications

• Brand: Intamo, Space Oddity
• Type: soy-based candle for massage
• Scent: eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils
• Ingredients listed by Intamo: soy wax, shea butter, cocoa butter, sweet almond oil, eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, vitamin E
• Burn time: 30 to 40 hours (maker's figure)
• Wick: lead-free
• Container: screen-printed matte ceramic jar with pour spout
• Weight and volume: not listed by the maker
• Also from Intamo: Lovely Day candle

Planning a slow evening for two? Browse our massage candles, see the full Intamo range, or get more ideas from our couples' guide.