How to Choose the Right Topical for IASTM and Manual Therapy

The right topical for IASTM or manual therapy should provide an appropriate balance of glide, control, and tactile feedback for the specific treatment technique.

That does not mean choosing the product with the most glide.

Different techniques place different demands on a topical. A clinician performing IASTM may need sustained, controlled glide that works well with the tool, while certain hands-on techniques may call for more grip. If treatment moves from IASTM directly into taping, ease of cleanup may become a greater priority.

A topical that isn't well suited to the technique can make treatment less efficient. Too much glide may make the tool or the clinician's hands harder to control, while too little lubrication can increase skin drag.

Rather than looking for one cream, lotion, or emollient that works for every application, choose a topical based on the specific technique, treatment goals, and clinical workflow.

What Role Does a Topical Play in IASTM and Manual Therapy?

A topical helps manage friction between the clinician or IASTM tool and the patient’s skin, providing the appropriate level of glide and control for the technique.

A suitable topical can help clinicians:

• Reduce excessive skin drag
• Maintain controlled contact with the treatment area
• Allow an IASTM tool to move smoothly across the skin
• Maintain useful tactile feedback
• Support patient comfort
• Provide adequate working time for the treatment
  

The goal is to find the right balance for the technique: enough glide to manage friction and support patient comfort without sacrificing the control the clinician needs.

The ideal balance varies by technique. A topical that works well for a longer massage session, for example, may not provide the same control or working characteristics needed for IASTM.

What Is the Difference Between an Emollient, Massage Cream, and Massage Lotion?

Terms such as emollient, massage cream, and massage lotion can overlap in everyday clinical language, and product names alone do not always indicate how a topical will perform. Consistency, formulation, working time, glide, grip, and intended use are more helpful factors to consider when comparing products.

HawkGrips offers several topical formulations designed for different treatment needs. Understanding how each performs can help clinicians choose the right option for their technique and workflow.

1. Emollient

For IASTM, an emollient can provide lubrication while maintaining the surface viscosity needed for controlled tool movement.

HawkGrips Emollient is an oil-based formula developed for professional therapeutic applications and is HawkGrips’ preferred topical for use with IASTM tools. Its oil-based consistency provides sustained glide and working time, helping reduce the need for frequent reapplication during treatment.

Although primarily positioned for IASTM, HawkGrips Emollient can also be used for cupping and other soft-tissue applications. It is available in vanilla-scented and fragrance-free options.

For clinicians primarily performing IASTM, an emollient designed for instrument-assisted work is a logical place to start.

2. Professional Massage Cream

Massage cream typically has a richer, thicker consistency that provides a different balance of glide and grip.

HawkGrips Professional Massage Cream is primarily designed for hands-on physical therapy and manual massage techniques. Its medium glide allows clinicians to move through soft tissue while maintaining more grip than a higher-slip product.

It can be particularly useful for:

• Deep tissue techniques
• Myofascial work
• Trigger point techniques
• Focused hands-on soft tissue treatment
• Longer manual therapy sessions
  

While massage cream may also be used with IASTM tools depending on clinician preference, its formulation and performance characteristics differ from an IASTM-focused emollient.

3. Therapeutic Massage Lotion

Massage lotion provides another option for hands-on treatment, typically with a lighter consistency than massage cream.

HawkGrips Therapeutic Massage Lotion is formulated for manual therapy and provides smooth workability in a lighter, non-greasy format. It can be useful when a lighter consistency and smooth glide are preferred.

A lotion may fit general massage and soft-tissue work where sustained oil-based glide or the additional grip of a thicker cream is not necessary.

4. Water-Based Emollient

Not every emollient is oil-based.

HawkHydro is HawkGrips’ water-based emollient for IASTM, cupping, and hands-on soft-tissue applications. One of its primary differences from a traditional oil-based emollient is ease of cleanup.

Its water-based formulation can make cleanup easier when another modality, such as therapeutic taping, follows IASTM.

Which HawkGrips Topical Fits Different Treatment Techniques?

A simple way to compare topicals is to start with the treatment technique and the performance characteristics it requires.

The right choice depends on the treatment technique, patient needs, desired glide and control, and overall clinical workflow.

How to Choose the Right Topical for IASTM and Manual Therapy

Rather than choosing a topical based on whether it is labeled a cream, lotion, gel, or emollient, consider how the product performs for the intended treatment technique.

1. Start With the Treatment Technique

Different techniques require different levels of glide, grip, working time, and cleanup. Start by considering what you need the topical to accomplish during treatment.

• IASTM: Controlled glide and adequate working time
• Deep manual therapy: Greater grip and controlled movement
• General massage or soft tissue work: Lighter, comfortable glide
• Cupping: An appropriate interface between the cup and skin
• IASTM followed by taping: Easier topical removal may be a priority
  

2. Consider Glide and Grip

For IASTM, clinicians typically need enough glide for smooth tool movement without sacrificing control. Certain hands-on techniques may benefit from greater grip, while too much resistance can increase skin drag and discomfort.

The ideal balance depends on the technique, treatment area, tool choice, and clinician preference.

3. Evaluate Tactile Feedback

A topical should allow the clinician to maintain the tactile feedback needed for the technique. Using more product than necessary may reduce feedback or make tool control more difficult.

Start with a small amount and add more as needed based on the technique, treatment area, and product formulation.

4. Consider Working Time and Absorption

Working time should match the length and type of treatment. An oil-based emollient may provide longer-lasting glide for IASTM, while a lighter lotion may be appropriate when extended working time is not needed.

Consider:

• Length of treatment
• Size of the treatment area
• Frequency of reapplication
• Amount of product needed
  

5. Consider the Patient's Skin

Patient comfort and skin considerations should also factor into topical selection. Consider:

• Known skin sensitivities or ingredient allergies
• Fragrance preferences
• Current skin condition
• Treatment location
• Frequency of treatment
  

Fragrance-free options may be appropriate for patients with fragrance sensitivities or in settings where unscented products are preferred. Clinicians should also consider skin sensitivity when choosing an emollient and follow product labeling and professional protocols when determining whether a topical is appropriate for an individual patient.

6. Think About Residue and Cleanup

Residue and cleanup can affect clinical workflow, particularly when another modality follows soft-tissue treatment.

Consider how easily the topical can be removed from:

• Patient skin
• IASTM tools
• Clinician hands
• Treatment tables and linens
  

If taping follows IASTM, ease of topical removal may become especially important. A water-based formulation may simplify cleanup before tape application.

7. Check Tool Compatibility

When using a topical with IASTM tools, consider how the formulation affects glide, control, residue, and cleanup. A product that works well for hands-on massage may perform differently when used with a stainless steel tool.

Consider whether the topical:

• Provides appropriate glide and control
• Remains workable for the treatment duration
• Leaves significant residue or buildup
• Can be removed efficiently after treatment
• Aligns with the manufacturer's cleaning and care instructions

Using a topical designed for IASTM can help provide the performance characteristics needed for instrument-assisted treatment.

8. Consider Clinical Efficiency and Cost per Treatment

Container price is only one part of a topical's overall cost. Consider how much product is needed per treatment, how often it requires reapplication, product waste, cleanup time, treatment volume, and packaging.

Dispensing format may also matter in busy clinical settings. Tubes, bottles, jars, and single-use packets can offer different advantages for workflow, portability, and hygiene.

Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Emollients: Which Is Better for IASTM?

Neither oil-based nor water-based emollients are universally better for IASTM. Each offers different performance characteristics, and the right choice depends on the treatment technique, desired working time, cleanup needs, and overall clinical workflow.

When to Choose an Oil-Based Emollient

Oil-based emollients typically provide longer working time and sustained glide. An oil-based option may be a good fit when:

• IASTM is the primary treatment technique
• Extended working time is useful
• Sustained glide is preferred
• The topical does not need to be removed immediately for another treatment, such as taping

When to Choose a Water-Based Emollient

Water-based emollients may be a good fit when:

• Quick cleanup is important
• Taping will follow treatment
• Another modality will follow and easy topical removal is beneficial
• A non-oily surface is preferred after treatment

Rather than viewing oil- and water-based emollients as competitors, consider which formulation best fits the treatment and clinical workflow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Topical

Even a quality topical may not be the right fit for every treatment. Common mistakes include:

• Choosing maximum glide instead of appropriate glide and control
• Assuming the same topical will perform equally well for every technique
• Using more product than necessary
• Overlooking patient skin sensitivities or fragrance preferences
• Ignoring what comes next in the treatment, such as taping
• Comparing products based on container price alone rather than overall cost and usage per treatment

Why Proper IASTM Education Matters

Choosing an appropriate topical is only one part of IASTM. Proper application also requires an understanding of tool handling, treatment parameters, clinical reasoning, precautions and contraindications, and how IASTM fits within a broader treatment plan.

Clinicians using IASTM should continue building their knowledge through evidence-informed education and practical instruction within their professional scope. HawkGrips IASTM courses cover instrument fundamentals, treatment techniques, clinical application, and advanced approaches for clinicians looking to further develop their IASTM skills. 

Final Takeaway: Match the Topical to the Technique

The right topical for IASTM or manual therapy is not necessarily the one with the most glide or thickest consistency. The best choice depends on the treatment technique, desired level of glide and control, working time, patient needs, and clinical workflow.

For IASTM, factors such as controlled glide, adequate working time, tool compatibility, and tactile feedback may be priorities, while hands-on techniques may call for a different balance of glide, grip, and absorption.

HawkGrips offers several topical options for different clinical needs, including Emollient for sustained IASTM glide, HawkHydro for a water-based option with easier cleanup, Professional Massage Cream for hands-on manual therapy, and Therapeutic Massage Lotion for lighter soft-tissue work.

Need help selecting the right topical for your practice? Contact HawkGrips for guidance.

FAQs

1. What is the best type of topical to use with IASTM tools?

A topical designed for IASTM is a good starting point because it is formulated to provide appropriate glide, control, and working time. HawkGrips Emollient is the primary oil-based topical recommended for use with HawkGrips IASTM tools.

2. What is the difference between an emollient and a massage cream?

Performance varies by formulation. HawkGrips Emollient provides sustained glide for IASTM, while Professional Massage Cream offers a thicker consistency and greater grip for primarily hands-on manual therapy.

3. Is an oil-based or water-based emollient better for IASTM?

Neither is universally better. Oil-based emollients may provide longer working time and sustained glide, while water-based options can offer easier cleanup. The right choice depends on the treatment and clinical workflow.

4. How much emollient should you use during IASTM?

Generally, only a small amount is needed to provide controlled glide. The appropriate amount depends on the product, treatment area, and technique.

5. What should clinicians consider when treating patients with sensitive skin?

Consider known allergies or sensitivities, fragrance preferences, current skin condition, and product formulation. Follow product labeling and professional protocols when determining whether a topical is appropriate for an individual patient.

6. Does the type of topical affect IASTM tool cleanup?

Yes. Different formulations can leave different amounts of residue. Consider cleanup requirements when selecting a topical and follow the manufacturer's cleaning and care instructions for your IASTM tools.