What do I actually take off for a massage?

Quick answer: You take off as much or as little as feels comfortable for you. For an oil massage, most people undress to their underwear, and that is completely fine. Your therapist will step out of the room while you undress and lie under a towel or sheet, and you stay covered throughout. Only the area being worked on is uncovered, then covered again before they move on. Remove jewellery and hair accessories before you lie down. Some massages, such as Thai massage and shiatsu, are often done fully clothed, so wear loose, comfortable clothing for those.

Not knowing what to take off is one of the most common worries before a massage, especially the first one. It can feel awkward to ask, and many people quietly lie awake wondering whether to keep their underwear on or how the towels work.

Please be reassured that you are in control the whole time. Massage therapists are trained to protect your privacy and comfort, and they welcome questions. There is nothing you can ask that they have not heard many times before.

Undress to your comfort level

The simplest guide is this: take off whatever you feel comfortable taking off, and keep on whatever you would like to keep on. There is no expectation and no standard you need to meet.

For a full body oil massage, such as a Swedish, aromatherapy, hot stone or deep tissue massage, most people undress to their underwear. This gives your therapist easy access to your back, shoulders, arms and legs. Some people prefer to remove their underwear too, and that is also fine, because you will be covered throughout.

If you would feel more relaxed keeping more on, such as a vest top or shorts, simply let your therapist know. They will work over or around your clothing. The only thing to bear in mind is that oil can mark clothes, and it can be a little harder to work on muscles through fabric. Your therapist can adjust their technique or use less oil in those areas.

Whatever you choose, your therapist will respect it completely. It is your body and your treatment.

How the towels and draping work

Draping simply means the way you are covered during your massage. You lie on the couch under a large towel or sheet, and your therapist uncovers only the area they are working on, such as one leg or your back. When they move on, they cover that area again before uncovering the next.

Private areas stay covered at all times. Therapists are trained to tuck towels securely and to move them in a way that keeps you feeling protected. When it is time to turn over, they will usually hold the towel up or steady it so you can turn underneath without feeling exposed.

If you ever feel a draft, feel too uncovered or would like an extra towel, just say. Many therapists also offer a blanket for extra warmth, as body temperature can drop a little as you relax.

You do not need to do anything special. Simply lie under the towel in the position your therapist suggests, and they will take care of the rest.

Your privacy while you get ready

Before your massage begins, your therapist will chat with you about your health, any areas of tension and what you hope to get from the treatment. This is a good moment to mention anything about undressing or comfort.

They will then explain what to take off, how to lie on the couch and whether to start face down or face up. Then they leave the room so you can undress in private. Take your time. There is no rush.

When you are ready, lie on the couch and cover yourself with the towel or sheet. Your therapist will knock or ask if you are ready before coming back in. At the end of your treatment, they will leave the room again so you can dress in private.

If you would like to talk through the process before you book, most salons and therapists are happy to answer questions by phone or message. If you are wondering whether you need to chat during the treatment, our blog on chatting in the chair explains that quiet is always welcome.

Saying what you are comfortable with

Good communication makes every massage better. You are always welcome to tell your therapist what feels comfortable, both before and during the treatment.

You might like to mention areas you would prefer them to avoid, whether you would like your glutes worked on over the towel, how much pressure feels good, or whether the room is too warm or cool. You can also ask them to explain what they are about to do before they do it.

If anything feels uncomfortable at any point, say so straight away. Your therapist would much rather adjust than have you lie there feeling uneasy. A simple "could we skip that area" or "a little lighter please" is all it takes.

Your comfort is the whole point of the treatment. A professional therapist will always listen and respond with care.

Jewellery and different massage types

Before you lie down, remove necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches and any long earrings. They can get in the way of the massage strokes, catch on towels or get oily. Take out hair clips and bands too, especially if your scalp, neck or face will be massaged. Many treatment rooms have a small dish or tray for your things.

Different massages also ask for different clothing:

• Swedish, deep tissue, aromatherapy and hot stone: usually done with oil, so most people undress to their underwear.
• Thai massage: done fully clothed on a mat, without oil, so wear loose, stretchy clothing.
• Shiatsu and acupressure: often done over light, comfortable clothing.
• Seated or chair massage: usually done fully clothed, over the shoulders, back and neck.

If you are not sure, check when you book. Your salon or therapist will happily tell you what to wear or bring.

FAQs

Do I keep my underwear on for a massage?

You can, and many people do. Keeping your underwear on is completely fine for any massage. Some people prefer to remove it for a full body oil massage, which is also fine because you stay covered with a towel or sheet. Choose whatever helps you feel most relaxed.

Will the therapist see me naked?

No. Your therapist leaves the room while you undress and while you dress again. During the massage you are covered with a towel or sheet, and only the area being worked on is uncovered. Private areas stay covered throughout, and your therapist will help you turn over without feeling exposed.

Can I keep my clothes on for a massage?

Yes. You can keep on as much clothing as you like. Your therapist will work over or around it. Oil can mark fabric and some techniques work better on skin, so they may adjust their approach. Thai massage, shiatsu and chair massage are often done fully clothed anyway.

Should I take my jewellery off before a massage?

Yes, it is best to remove necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches and long earrings before your massage. Jewellery can get in the way of strokes, catch on towels or get oily. Take out hair clips and bands too, especially if your neck or scalp will be massaged.

What should I wear to a Thai massage?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that lets you move and stretch freely, such as soft trousers and a t shirt. Thai massage is usually done fully clothed on a mat without oil. Some places provide clothing for you to change into, so check when you book.

Book with confidence

Knowing what to expect makes it so much easier to relax and enjoy your massage. You choose what to take off, you stay covered, and your therapist is there to make you feel safe and cared for from start to finish. If you are looking for someone new, every verified professional on The Hair and Beauty Directory has had their qualifications and insurance checked, so you can book knowing you are in trusted hands.