What To Wear For Massage? Discover The Best Attire To Maximize Your Comfort

No matter if you’re a seasoned pro when it comes to massages or trying one for the first time, one question likely crosses your mind: “What should I wear to a massage?”. Incorporating clothing into your relaxation can be tough – after all, massages are usually considered a completely disrobed activity. But there is some thought put into choosing what to don during massages.

Thankfully, we’ve got you covered with tips and tricks on the best attire to maximize comfort during your next massage:

“The right clothes can make a difference in how comfortable you feel during your massage,” says Jane Goldberg, PhD, Clinical Director at La Casa Spa and Wellness Center.

We want to ensure that our readers have all the information they need not only to receive an effective massage but also to enjoy it comfortably. We will outline everything from what types of fabrics work best to finding a balance between being appropriately dressed while still feeling relaxed and uninhibited.

Let’s delve into the world of massage parlors and explore ways you can dress to enhance your experience!

Consider the Type of Massage You Will Be Receiving

If you are planning to get a massage, it’s important to know what type of massage you will be receiving before deciding on what to wear. Different types of massages require different clothing options to ensure maximum comfort.

Relaxation Massage

A relaxation massage is designed to help you unwind and de-stress. If you are getting this type of massage, you typically won’t need to undress completely. Most people wear comfortable clothing such as sweats, yoga pants, or shorts and a t-shirt. This allows for easy movement during the massage without being restricted by tight clothing. However, if you prefer to wear nothing at all, that is completely up to you! Your comfort should always come first.

Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage uses firm pressure and slow strokes to target deeper layers of muscle and fascia. Because of this, it is best to wear loose-fitting clothing that allows your muscles to move freely without any constrictions. Some people prefer to wear gym shorts and a sports bra, while others opt for loose-fitting sweatpants and a tank top. Whatever option you choose, make sure it’s comfortable and doesn’t impede the therapist’s ability to work on specific areas of your body.

Hot Stone Massage

During a hot stone massage, heated stones are placed on certain areas of the body to help relax muscles and increase circulation. For this type of massage, wearing loose-fitting clothing is recommended so that the therapist can easily access the areas where the hot stones will be placed. Many people wear shorts or a bathing suit with a towel draped over them for added warmth and comfort.

Sports Massage

A sports massage is designed for people who engage in physical activity on a regular basis. This type of massage focuses on deep tissue work and stretching to help reduce muscle tension and prevent injury. Because this massage can be more vigorous than others, it’s best to wear clothing that allows for full range of motion such as athletic shorts and a tank top or t-shirt.

No matter what type of massage you choose, the most important thing to consider is your comfort. You want to wear clothing that allows you to relax and fully enjoy the benefits of the massage without any discomfort or restrictions. Remember to communicate with your massage therapist if you have any concerns or questions about what to wear before your session.

“Massage is not just a luxury. It’s a way to a healthier, happier life.” -Unknown

Choose Loose and Comfortable Clothing

When going for a massage, the right type of clothing can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Opting for comfortable and loose-fitting clothes is vital to ensure that you enjoy maximum relaxation during your session.

The following are some of the reasons why wearing loose clothes for a massage is important:

• You need to feel relaxed: When getting a massage, it’s essential to be in an environment where you feel calm and at ease with yourself. Wearing tight, restrictive garments might cause stress, as they restrict your movements, impede blood flow and create muscle tension.
• Your comfort comes first: Select attires that are made from soft and breathable fabrics that keep you cozy throughout the massage. Natural materials like cotton or bamboo blend so well with the skin that they won’t irritate or leave any marks on your body.
• Loose outfits offer versatility: To enhance the convenience of changing into another outfit or disrobing when necessary, go for tops with buttons or zippers. Also, remember to carry along a lightweight jacket or sweater if weather conditions warrant.

“Wear something comfortable. Remember, being uncomfortable can hinder your ability to relax.” – eHow.com

Avoid Tight Clothing

While seeking comfort and convenience should be paramount while dressing up for a massage session, one must also avoid certain wardrobe choices that could interfere with the experience or result in any discomfort.

Below are some of the reasons why you should stay away from tight clothing opted for a message:

• Tight clothes complicate access: For instance, if you’re undergoing deep tissue therapy, physiotherapy, or sports massage, your therapist needs to manipulate various parts of the body. Tight clothes can hamper their ability to reach, stretch or knead muscles accurately and effectively.
• Attires with tight waistbands” Even if you have a flat stomach, wearing tights pants or shorts with a rigid waistband during the massage could be unbearable; it might compress your midsection, leaving you feeling uncomfortable, bloated, or nauseous.
• Tight-fitting garments restrain blood circulation: Tight clothes constrict the flow of air and stir up heat around particular areas such as thighs and upper arms. This condition can lead to overheating or sweating, which may cause uneasiness throughout the whole session.

“While you want to avoid loose clothing that feels too baggy, understand that therapists need access to move limbs and anatomy through specific ranges of motion. It is much easier to safely adjust loose clothing rather than restricting material.” -Mind Body Green

Opt for Elastic Waistbands

If you are unsure about what to wear for your next therapeutic massage, opt for elastic waistbands over fixed ones. Choosing attires with an adjustable waist will help you achieve maximum comfort while keeping things accommodating and breathable.

The following reasons expound on why flexible waists make ideal choices:

• Elastic bands offer ease of movement and flexibility: When seeking deep tissue therapy or sports massage, choosing attires with adaptable seems like fabric or comfortable waistbands help improve mobility and range of motion. Hence, easing any discomfort or tension in the muscles.
• Elastics leave room for adjustments when necessary: In case you start getting too warm or feel uneasy in any part of your outfit, elastic joints allow you to loosen them according to your preference without risking interrupting the flow of the session.
• Elastic waistbands are versatile and affordable: Elastics can adjust to accommodate any changes in your body, whether it be sudden weight gain or loss. Moreover, they come in a variety of designs that suit both casual wear and office attire styles, giving them excellent value for money.

“Think carefully about what you’ll be wearing beforehand and make sure you’re comfortable with how exposed you are during different parts of the massage.” -VeryWellHealth

Selecting the right clothes can affect your overall experience, keep these guidelines in mind when determining what to wear on your next massage appointment. Ultimately, though, remember to prioritize comfort first so you can truly relax into the moment and enjoy every bit of the process.

Avoid Wearing Jewelry and Accessories

When it comes to getting a massage, it’s important to dress appropriately. One key aspect is choosing the right jewelry and accessories to wear or not wear.

Remove Watches and Bracelets

It’s important to remove any watches or bracelets before your massage as they can interfere with the therapist’s movements and potentially cause discomfort for both the client and therapist.

“Watches should be removed as they prevent monitoring of pulse and blood pressure during treatment.” -Massage Magazine

In addition, some therapists use their forearms to apply pressure during massages which may cause pain or injury if there are any sharp or bulky pieces of jewelry on the client’s wrist.

Avoid Wearing Necklaces and Earrings

Necklaces and earrings can also pose a risk during a massage as they could get caught and pulled accidentally. It’s best to avoid wearing these items altogether so the therapist can work smoothly and without interruption.

“Jewelry has been known to break or fall off and become lodged in skin, causing an infection” -Beverly Hills Advanced Surgery Institute

Moreover, dangling earrings can tickle the face during a prone (face-down) position, thus, disrupting your relaxation experience. There’s always a chance that the oils or creams used during treatments will leave residue on the jewelry after the session is over.

Remove Rings and Hair Accessories

It’s recommended to take out any rings beforehand since many hand techniques involve twisting and stretching finger joints and incidentally yanking the jewelry might ruin it or irritate the surrounding area. Likewise, hair accessories such as clips and headbands must be taken off especially when the massage involves scalp or neck work.

“If an earring is uncomfortable, it is often difficult to adjust without losing the momentum created in the therapeutic moment” -Massage and Bodywork Magazine

Making sure fingers are free from any distractions can also help achieve a deep sense of relaxation during massage sessions, and the hair accessories may leave marks on your scalp due to pressure

Avoid Wearing Perfumes and Lotions

Scented products such as perfumes, deodorants, and lotions should not be applied before going for a massage. These fragrances might react unfavorably with the oils used by the therapist in treatment which could cause breakouts or allergic reactions. In some cases, the therapy’s efficacy might be reduced if certain oils stimulate unintended emotional responses.

“Avoid wearing perfume or scented lotion during a facial or body wrap, so you don’t dilute the results.” -Spafinder

The goal in getting a massage is to relax your mind and body; strong smells might interfere with the senses intended to be engaged in the therapy process. It’s useful to check with clinics regarding their fragrance policies. Many accommodations have professional facilities where clients will appreciate odorless environments that put them at ease.

Opt for Breathable Fabrics for Sweat-Free Experience

Sweating is an inevitable part of a massage, and you do not want to feel uncomfortable throughout the session. One easy way to prevent this is by choosing breathable fabrics for your massage clothing. This type of fabric allows air to circulate around your body, keeping you cool and sweat-free during the massage.

Choose Cotton or Bamboo Fabrics

Cotton and bamboo fabrics are the most popular choices when it comes to breathable fabrics for massages. Both materials are lightweight and allow sweat to evaporate from the skin quickly. Moreover, these types of fabrics absorb moisture effectively, which helps keep your skin dry and comfortable throughout the massage.

“Cotton breathes better than oil-based synthetic fabrics like polyester,” says Dr. Mark G. Lebwohl, professor and chairman of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

When picking cotton or bamboo fabrics for your massage attire, choose those that are loose-fitting so that there is enough room for air to circulate generously through the material. Clothes that cling to your body may trap heat, resulting in discomfort and unnecessary sweating.

Avoid Synthetic Fabrics

Synthetic fabrics are made from man-made materials such as nylon, rayon, or polyester. Unfortunately, they’re not breathable and are unable to absorb moisture because they lack natural fibers. They often retain heat rather than dissipating it, causing perspiration to build up under your clothes, leaving you feeling damp and sticky all over.

According to aesthetician Hayley Wood, “Synthetic fabrics are not breathing fabrics – they don’t let the sweat out.”

If you prefer to wear synthetics, look for moisture-wicking fabrics that would help draw the sweat from your skin and evaporate it. Nonetheless, keep in mind that synthetic materials are not as comfortable as cotton or bamboo.

Choose Light-Colored Clothing

If you find yourself sweating more than usual during massages, consider wearing light-colored clothing. Dark colors, such as black, absorb more heat and make you overly warm. Meanwhile, lighter shades reflect sunlight, keeping you cool instead of trapping heat.

Lighter colors may also help conceal any oil residue left on your clothes after the massage session.

“When it comes to choosing a color for your massage outfit, go for something lighter – like pastel colors, white, yellow,” recommends Katrina Tafoya, licensed Massage Therapist at Birch Family Wellness Collective.

With these tips in mind, always remember that comfort should come first when deciding what to wear for your massage therapy appointment. You must be able to relax during the entire session, free from unnecessary distractions caused by uncomfortable clothing.

Think About Post-Massage Plans and Wear Appropriate Attire

Getting a massage is not just about the time spent in the session, but also what follows after. If you have plans for the day, it’s important to consider what clothing will be comfortable while still protecting any tender areas that may be sore after a massage.

Choose Loose and Comfortable Clothing for Relaxation

If your post-massage plan includes relaxation, such as lounging around or taking a nap, opt for loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabric. Examples of this type of attire include yoga pants, sweatpants, leggings, or even pajamas. Whatever you choose, make sure it gives you enough space to move freely without feeling constricted while allowing your skin to breathe.

“Wear something that provides comfort and helps you relax so you can let go of tension built up in muscles.” -Georgia Kohart, Massage Therapist

Avoid wearing tight-fitted clothes like skinny jeans or slim-cut pants that can cause discomfort and irritation when moving. Instead, focus on items with stretchy material such as cotton or spandex that allow for optimal mobility. Additionally, bringing along a change of clothes can help keep the mood relaxed and less stressful by enabling you to shake off any negative energy left behind by everyday life struggles.

Wear Athletic Clothing for Exercise

If you are getting a massage before exercising, it’s suggested to wear sports-ready clothing made of moisture-wicking fabric that keeps sweat away from your skin. Choose lightweight T-shirts and shorts made of microfiber polyester or nylon, keeping them close to the body to enhance performance and prevent chafing while working out.

“Sportswear has been designed specifically to optimize physical activity, so investing in appropriate athletic wear that’s moisture-wicking, breathable, and flexible will help you fully enjoy the benefits of a massage-boosted workout.” -Chloe Brotheridge, Author

Avoid wearing clothes with pockets or zippers that could be uncomfortable while moving around quickly. Also, make sure to bring along appropriate shoes for your exercise routine, such as running shoes or cross-trainers. Wearing proper workout attire generally helps keep the muscles warm and reduces stress on joints, preparing them for intense activity during the workout.

Opt for Business Casual for Work Appointments

If getting a massage before attending work-related appointments or meetings, it is essential to consider clothing based on the dress code requirements for the session. Dressing appropriately shows that you take things seriously and understand the importance of making good impressions in various professional scenarios.

“Dress up comfort smartly, wearing business-casual attire, such as tailored trousers and blazers that are easy to move in. It’s important to ensure you don’t look messy, so bring an extra layer like a jacket or cardigan that can be easily removed if too warm to protect any sore areas from unnecessary exposure.” -Ishtiaque Hussain, Dress shoe Specialist

Breathable materials like cotton or linen suits provide a keen balance between professionalism and optimal relaxation after a strenuous activity such as a massage. Opt for shoes similar to slip-ons or nonrestrictive loafers that can slide on without having to tie laces over bruises and sore foot areas.

• In Summary:
• Go for loose and comfortable clothing for relaxation post-massage sessions.
• Dress properly for workout sessions immediately after a massage; choose moisture-wicking sportswear and perfect-fitting sports shoes.
• For work-related appointments, choose attire that engenders both comfort and professionalism.

It’s essential to think ahead about post-massage plans when choosing what to wear for massage sessions, balancing the need for comfort while protecting areas of soreness. Whether going out with friends or attending a work event, select your clothing appropriately and considerate of the occasion at hand.

Discuss Clothing Options with Your Massage Therapist

It’s understandable to be unsure about what clothing to wear for a massage session. Fortunately, your massage therapist is there to guide you through the process of choosing appropriate attire that caters to both your comfort and your treatment needs.

Ask for Recommendations

If you’re not sure where to start, it’s best to ask your massage therapist for their recommendations. Depending on the type of massage you’re scheduled for, they may advise wearing loose-fitting clothing or even suggest specific items like shorts or tank tops. This will ensure that you get the most out of your massage experience without feeling constricted or uncomfortable.

“Massage therapists are trained in anatomy and physiology and able to recognize areas of tension and restriction. They can give personalized recommendations based on activity level, past injuries, and individual preferences.” -Jorden Gold

Discuss Specific Clothing Needs

In some cases, you may have specific clothing needs due to medical conditions or other physical limitations. It’s crucial to inform your massage therapist of any issues ahead of time so they can accommodate you properly. For instance, if you have mobility concerns, they may suggest using adaptive clothing that allows better movement while still providing coverage. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, they may avoid certain fabrics or materials that could cause irritation.

“Communication is key during every step of the way when receiving a massage- from scheduling the appointment to debriefing after the service is completed.” -Samuel Mathews

Ask About Changing Facilities

Before arriving at your massage appointment, make sure to inquire about changing facilities. Some locations offer private changing rooms or lockers where you can store your personal belongings before heading into your session. Others may only provide you with a hook or hanger to place your clothes. Either way, knowing what to expect will help you prepare and feel more comfortable during your visit.

Ask About Robes or Towels Provided

Some massage establishments provide robes or towels for their clients to wear during their session. This option is ideal if you’re uncomfortable changing into different clothing or bring your own clothes but don’t want them stained from oils or lotions used during the treatment. If this is an option, make sure to ask ahead of time so that you can plan accordingly.

“You may also be given a robe and slippers or disposable underwear bottoms to further protect your own clothing.” -Mayo Clinic Staff

Frequently Asked Questions