Not knowing the proper etiquette when having a massage can cause moments of confusion. Do you tip a massage therapist?
How much clothing should you remove? Although a tip is never required, if your massage is at a spa or hotel in North America, a 20 percent tip is standard if you were pleased with the service. The exception is all-inclusive spas that have a no-tip policy. If you were given a gift certificate or purchased a deal through a discount site, a tip based on the original price is customary. When there are no envelopes provided, you can either give the therapist cash or add the tip when you are paying for the service.
For massages at medical or clinical environment, tips may not be expected or even accepted. Typically, a massage therapist will ask you to undress to your level of comfort. Many people prefer to keep their underwear on during a massage, while others prefer to be nude.
Women usually remove their bras to allow the massage therapist to work on the back and shoulder area without getting massage oil or lotion on the bra. If your problem area is your low back, hips, buttocks, or groin, tight-fitting or large underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work. You can ask your massage therapist before getting changed.
The massage therapist will leave the room so that you can remove your clothing and lie on the massage table usually face down under the top sheet. If you prefer keeping your clothes on, opt for massage styles like Shiatsu or Thai massage, which are usually done fully clothed.
