Etiquette · No blushing
The rules of the table.
Ten rules every guy should know before his first massage, and his fiftieth. Short, practical, a little cheeky. Works in New York, London or São Paulo.
Everyone wins. Especially you. Clean skin takes oil better and you'll relax faster.
Late starts eat into your time, not theirs. Arrive, breathe, use the bathroom.
Injuries, surgeries, medication, that one shoulder. The intake isn't small talk. It's the plan.
Underwear on or off is your call. Draping and touch get agreed before you start, and you can change your mind any time.
“Harder”, “softer” and “stop” are full sentences. Prefer silence? Say so. Falling asleep is a compliment.
Not on silent. Off. The group chat will survive an hour.
Flirting isn't part of the session. Every touch is agreed in advance, and sex is never on the table. Professional massage is non-sexual, always.
You deserve your name, your pronouns and zero judgement. Your therapist deserves the same professionalism back.
Tipping is expected at many US spas and studios. In plenty of other countries it isn't. When in doubt, ask at the front desk.
Drink water, skip the heavy workout for the rest of the day and notice how you sleep tonight.
The other side of the table
What a good therapist will always do.
- Ask about your health and goals before you undress.
- Leave the room while you get ready.
- Agree draping and touch with you before you start.
- Check in on pressure and comfort.
- Keep the language professional. No innuendo, ever.
Anything feel off? Trust your gut and leave. Know your rights on our rights page.
FAQ
Do I have to be fully undressed for a massage?
No. Undress to your comfort level. Many men keep underwear on. Draping is agreed with you before the session, and you can change your mind any time.
Is it okay to ask for less pressure or to stop?
Always. A good therapist checks in, but you can speak up any time. “Stop” ends the session, no explanation needed.
Should I tip my massage therapist?
It depends on where you are. Tipping is customary at many spas and studios in the US; in many other countries it isn't expected. Ask if you're not sure.
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