What to Wear to a Massage

For an oil massage, you undress to your comfort level, usually down to your underwear, and stay covered by a towel or sheet, with only the area being massaged uncovered. For Thai massage, shiatsu and reflexology, you stay dressed in loose clothing. To get to the spa, wear something comfortable that is easy to take off and put back on.

What to wear for an oil massage

Swedish, Balinese, deep tissue, hot stone and aromatherapy massages all use oil, so the therapist needs to reach your skin. You undress in private (the therapist leaves the room or waits outside) and lie under a towel or sheet.

• Underwear: most people keep it on. Many spas give you disposable briefs so your own don't get oily.

• Bra: for a back massage, most women take it off, because the straps are in the way. You can keep it on if you prefer, and the therapist will work around it.

• Fully undressed: fine at most spas. You are covered at all times, and only the part being massaged is uncovered, then covered again. This is called draping.

You are never expected to undress more than you are comfortable with. Tell the therapist your preference; it changes nothing about the massage.

What to wear for a massage without oil

For Thai massage, shiatsu, reflexology and chair massage, you stay dressed. Wear loose, stretchy clothing such as a T-shirt and yoga trousers or shorts, or change into the clothes the spa gives you. Avoid jeans, belts and anything tight, because Thai massage includes stretches.

For a foot massage or reflexology, shorts or trousers that roll up to the knee are ideal.

What to wear to the spa

• Loose, comfortable clothes that are easy to take off and put back on.

• Slip-on shoes or sandals.

• Little or no jewellery; you will take it off anyway.

• A hair tie if you have long hair.

• For a facial, come without make-up if you can, or the therapist will remove it.

After an oil massage, some oil stays on your skin, so avoid wearing silk or anything you don't want marked.

A massage at your villa or hotel

The same rules apply when a therapist comes to you. They bring fresh linen, towels and oils, and step outside while you change. Have a robe or sarong ready, and keep the room cool but not cold.

Other common questions

• Shaving: not needed. Therapists don't notice or mind.

• Your period: a massage is fine. Wear a tampon or menstrual cup, or keep your underwear on, and tell the therapist if you'd like them to avoid your stomach.

• Feeling shy: completely normal. Keep on what you like, and say if anything makes you uncomfortable.

• Contact lenses and glasses: lenses are fine, but take glasses off before you lie face down.

In short

For an oil massage, keep your underwear on or not, as you prefer: you stay covered by a towel either way. For Thai massage and shiatsu, wear loose clothes you can stretch in. Our guide to types of massage shows which styles use oil, and if you'd rather stay at your villa, our home service massage in Seminyak brings the therapist to you.

Frequently asked questions

Do you have to take your clothes off for a massage?

Only for an oil massage, and only as much as you like. Thai massage, shiatsu and reflexology are done fully clothed.

Should I wear underwear during a massage?

It's up to you. Most people do, and many spas give you disposable briefs. You stay covered by a towel either way.

What should I wear for a Thai massage?

Loose, stretchy clothing such as a T-shirt and yoga trousers, or the clothes the spa provides. No oil is used.

Do I need to shave before a massage?

No. It makes no difference to the massage, and therapists don't mind.

Can I get a massage on my period?

Yes. Wear a tampon or menstrual cup, or keep your underwear on, and tell the therapist if you'd like them to avoid your stomach.

What should I wear after a massage?

Loose clothes you don't mind getting a little oily, and sandals. Many people go straight to bed or the pool.