The Short Answer: Undress to Your Comfort Level
For most table massages using oil or lotion (Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone), you'll undress and lie under a sheet or blanket. How much you undress is entirely your choice. Some people remove all clothing, others keep underwear on, and both approaches are completely normal.
Professional massage therapists are trained in draping techniques that keep you covered at all times except the specific area being worked on. Your privacy and comfort are the priority.
What to Wear for Different Massage Types
Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage
These classic table massages use oil or lotion applied directly to your skin. Most clients undress and lie between sheets, keeping underwear on or removing it based on personal preference.
What to wear to the appointment: Whatever is comfortable and easy to remove. Avoid complicated outfits with many layers. After your massage, you may have residual oil on your skin, so consider bringing or wearing clothes you don't mind getting slightly oily.
During the massage: You'll be under a sheet. The therapist will only expose the area they're currently working on (back, legs, arms) and keep everything else covered.
Hot Stone Massage
Similar to Swedish massage, hot stone massage uses oil and requires skin contact. Undress as you would for a Swedish massage, keeping undergarments on if you prefer.
The therapist will place warm stones on specific points on your body and use them during massage strokes. Standard draping applies.
Thai Massage
Thai massage is performed fully clothed on a floor mat. The therapist uses stretching, compression, and assisted yoga-like movements, so your clothing needs to allow a full range of motion.
Best choices: Yoga pants, sweatpants, loose athletic wear, or comfortable stretchy clothing.
Avoid: Jeans, belts, buttons, zippers, or anything restrictive. Skip the bra if comfortable (sports bras work well), as straps and clasps can interfere with back work.
Some Thai massage studios provide loose clothing to change into. Ask when you book if you're unsure what to bring.
Sports Massage
Depending on the focus areas, sports massage may be performed with you partially clothed or under draping like a Swedish massage. Athletes often wear athletic shorts or sports bras to allow easy access to specific muscle groups.
Discuss with your therapist what you'll be working on, and they can advise on the best approach. If they're focusing on your legs and glutes, athletic shorts allow direct access. For full-body work, standard undressing and draping works fine.
Prenatal Massage
Prenatal massage follows similar guidelines to Swedish massage. Undress to your comfort level and the therapist will keep you properly draped.
You may be positioned on your side with pillows for support rather than face-down. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment, especially in later pregnancy when getting dressed and undressed requires more effort.
Couples Massage
Couples massage typically follows Swedish or relaxation massage protocols. Both partners undress to their comfort level, each with their own sheet and therapist.
If you're doing couples massage for a special occasion, some spas offer robes to wear before and after your session. Check what's provided when you book.
What the Spa Typically Provides
Most massage establishments in Frisco provide:
- Sheets and blankets: Clean linens for draping during your session
- Face cradle covers: Disposable or freshly laundered covers for the headrest
- Secure storage: A place to store your clothes and belongings during the massage
Higher-end spas may also offer:
- Robes and slippers: To wear while moving between rooms
- Disposable underwear: For clients who prefer them
- Locker rooms: With showers, especially if you want to rinse off oil after
- Changing areas: Private spaces to dress before and after
If you're unsure what's available, ask when you book your appointment. This helps you know what to bring and what to expect.
What to Bring
Always Bring
- Payment method: For your service and tip
- ID: Some locations require it for first visits
- Health information: Be prepared to discuss relevant conditions or medications
Consider Bringing
- Hair tie: Keep long hair out of the way and away from massage oil
- Comfortable clothes to wear after: Especially if your regular clothes are restrictive
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated helps your body process the massage
- Socks: Feet can get cold during massage; some people like to keep socks on
Leave at Home
- Jewelry: Necklaces, bracelets, and rings can interfere with the massage. Earrings may be uncomfortable face-down
- Watches and fitness trackers: Remove before your session
- Valuables: While most massage rooms have secure storage, leaving expensive items at home is safer
- Heavy perfume or cologne: Strong scents in a small room can be overwhelming and may conflict with aromatherapy oils
Day-of Preparation
Shower Beforehand
A quick shower before your massage is considerate to your therapist and helps you feel more comfortable. You don't need to scrub intensely; just be clean. Avoid applying heavy lotions or oils before your appointment, as these can interfere with the massage products used.
Skip the Heavy Makeup
When you lie face-down, makeup can transfer to the face cradle cover. Light or no makeup is best. If you're coming from work, bring makeup wipes to freshen up before your session.
Remove Contact Lenses (Optional)
Some people find it more comfortable to remove contacts before lying face-down for an extended period. Bring your glasses if you choose to do this, or keep your contacts in if that's more comfortable for you.
During the Massage: Staying Comfortable
Speak Up About Temperature
Massage rooms are often kept warm, but everyone has different preferences. If you're too hot or cold, tell your therapist. They can adjust the room temperature, add or remove blankets, or modify their draping approach.
Adjust Position as Needed
If something feels uncomfortable (arm position, face cradle angle, pillow placement), let your therapist know. Small adjustments can make a big difference in how relaxed you feel.
Communicate About Draping
If you feel exposed or would like more coverage in any area, say so. Professional therapists want you to feel comfortable and will adjust their draping technique based on your feedback.
After Your Massage
Take your time getting up and dressed. Moving too quickly after deep relaxation can cause dizziness. Most massage rooms include a few minutes of private time to transition back.
You may have oil residue on your skin. Some spas offer showers; otherwise, the oil will absorb into your skin over the next few hours. Wear clothes you don't mind getting slightly oily on your way home.
Drink water to help your body flush out any toxins released during the massage. Avoid intense exercise immediately after; let your muscles continue to relax and recover.
Your Comfort Is the Priority
The most important rule: undress only to your comfort level. There's no "right" amount of clothing to remove. Professional massage therapists work with clients across the comfort spectrum daily. Your preferences are normal, whatever they are.
If you're nervous about your first massage, discuss your concerns with your therapist beforehand. They can explain exactly what will happen, how draping works, and answer any questions. Good therapists want you to feel at ease so you can fully benefit from the massage.