Massage Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts of Undressing, Tipping & More

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Answering all your embarrassing questions before you get a massage

Co-authored by Will Fuller and Hunter Rising

Last Updated: January 4, 2024 Fact Checked

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Etiquette Do’s and Don’ts

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How Much to Undress

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Tipping Etiquette

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What can I expect when I get a massage?

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Expert Interview

If you’re getting your first massage, it’s completely normal to feel a little confused about the protocol. You’ll never have to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, and we're here to explain all the ins and outs of a professional massage. Read on for the best advice on preparing for your session, from proper etiquette to what to wear and how to tip.

Section 1 of 4:

Massage Etiquette Do’s and Don’ts

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1. Shower and wash your hair before your massage . You’ll feel more relaxed and it’s more hygienic for your massage therapist. Don’t worry about shaving any body hair; it doesn’t bother your massage therapist.

2. Cover any open cuts or warts with bandages . Let your massage therapist know where they are so they avoid touching those areas.

3. Avoid heavy meals 2 hours before your massage . Stick to a light snack if you're hungry and make sure to stay hydrated.

4. Avoid drinking alcohol before your massage . Alcohol can lessen the relaxing effects of your massage. ^{[1]
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5. Don’t put on makeup, fragrance, or fake tanner beforehand . They could leave marks or stains on the massage table’s sheets. Additionally, avoid wearing perfume or cologne.

6. Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time so you have time to fill out paperwork and get in a relaxed mindset. ^{[2]
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7. Put your phone on silent . Setting your phone to silent gets rid of distractions so your massage feels more relaxing.

8. Take off any jewelry you’re wearing. Jewelry could get in your massage therapist’s way and end up covered in massage oil. ^{[3]
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9. Inform your massage therapist about sensitive spots . If you’re ticklish or have any areas that have been causing a lot of pain, tell your massage therapist before they start. They’ll take extra care around those spots or avoid them completely.

10. Don’t feel pressured to fill the silence . If you want to quietly enjoy your massage, it’s okay if you don’t chit-chat. Your massage therapist will follow your lead and let you relax. They may check in to see how you're doing and if you want more or less pressure.

11. Speak up during your session if you feel pain . Different areas of the body can handle different pressures. Speak up if you'd like to ask for more or less pressure—it's not rude at all. Your massage therapist will be happy to do what it takes to make you comfortable.

12. Pass gas if you need to . Passing gas or burping is completely normal as your muscles relax during a massage, so it won’t bother your massage therapist when it happens. ^{[4]
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13. Doze off if you’re feeling tired . It’s completely normal to drift off to sleep when you’re so relaxed from a massage, so your massage therapist won’t judge if you start snoring in the middle of your session.

14. Don’t worry if you get an erection . Getting an erection is a normal response to physical touch and relaxation, so it’s common for it to happen during a massage. Your massage therapist will ignore it as long as you’re behaving appropriately. ^{[5]
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15. Treat your massage therapist as a professional . You may have heard of receiving “extras” or “happy endings,” but these advances are not tolerated by massage therapists and may end your session immediately. ^{[6]
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