Do you tip after a massage at a spa?

Author: Demond Bernhard  |  Last update: Friday, July 25, 2025

Health or destination spas, hotels, and resort spas where you spend a night add a service fee or spa tip of 18-20% onto the facial or massage. You can tip your therapist extra in the treatment room if you believe you've received exceptional service.

Is it rude not to tip after a massage?

Tipping is a common practice in the service industry, including for massage therapists. While it's not considered rude to not tip, many people choose to tip their massage therapist as a way to show appreciation for their services.

How much do I tip for a 60 minute massage?

  • Standard Percentage : A common practice is to tip between 15% to 20% of the total cost of the massage.
  • Quality of Service : If you feel that the massage was exceptional, you might consider tipping more than 20%. Conversely, if the service did not meet your expectations, you can tip less.
  • Spa vs. Independent Therapist

What are the don'ts after massage?

Skip Alcohol and Caffeine: Avoid consuming alcohol or caffeinated beverages right after a massage, as they can dehydrate you and counteract the relaxation benefits. Don't Skip Hydration: While you should stay away from alcohol, remember to drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins released during the massage.

Are you supposed to tip at a spa?

While the standard tip rate is 15 to 20 percent, many spa managers say that because treatment services can run high or clients may be coming in for a series package, additional gratuity is not expected, like it would be in a hair or nail salon.

How Much Should You Tip for A Massage?

Where to leave a tip after a massage therapist?

The most traditional way to tip is in person, either directly to your therapist in cash or added to your credit card charge at the front desk - this is the easiest method and allows you to thank your therapist personally for their service.

What is the etiquette at a spa?

Dress Appropriately Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing when visiting a. Most spas provide robes, slippers, and towels, but it's good practice to bring a swimsuit if you plan to use the sauna, steam room, or pool. If enjoying a facial, remove your makeup, especially eye make up and mascara.

Why do they say not to shower after a massage?

The temperature of the water can cause your muscles to tense up, which can negate the benefits of massage therapy. The heat can also increase the risk of dehydration. Inflammation may also occur if you are already feeling sore after the massage. Wait at least 1-2 hours before showering or taking a bath.

What not to say during a massage?

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  • Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  • Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  • Don't break wind. ...
  • Avoid talking too much. ...
  • Don't use your phone. ...
  • Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Are you supposed to take everything off for a massage?

TIPS FOR TAKING OFF CLOTHES FOR A MASSAGE

Always leave your underwear on. Women should wear a bra and briefs / pants, while men should wear briefs / boxer shorts - imagine what you would wear to the beach. 2. If you're feeling uncomfortable taking your clothes off, talk to your massage therapist.

How often should you get a massage?

1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.

Is $20 a good tip for an hour massage?

Many people tip around 15-20% of the massage cost.

For example, if your massage costs $100, you'd tip $15 to $20. This range is a good starting point and is commonly accepted across different settings: at-home or mobile therapists, franchise spas or clinics, or an individual massage therapist.

What is proper etiquette when getting a massage?

10 tips to get the most from your massage
  1. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible.
  2. Don't eat just before a massage session. ...
  3. Be on time. ...
  4. Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing. ...
  5. Communicate with your massage therapist. ...
  6. Remember to breathe normally.

Is $5 a good tip for a pedicure?

The cost of a manicure or pedicure in the U.S. can range from $20 to $50, with the national average being $45. The typical tipping amount for a basic manicure or pedicure service is 17-18%. Of course, you are welcome to tip more, but the minimum recommended tip is at least $5.

Why are massages so expensive?

Therapists devote their undivided attention and utilize various techniques to ensure a quality experience. Additionally, expenses such as rent for the massage space, utilities, equipment, and supplies are factored into the overall cost.

Do you turn over during a massage?

During the massage, your therapist is likely to ask you to turn over.

What are red flags in massage therapy?

One of the first red flags in a massage session is a lack of communication. If the therapist doesn't take the time to ask about your pain points or preferences before starting, that's a sign of trouble.

What is the first rule of massage?

1. Slow down when you need to. Speed up when you don't need to slow down.

What body parts should be avoided during massage?

These are areas of the body where deep, sustained pressure should be avoided because of the structures that lie beneath. Those areas are the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck, suprasternal notch, sternum, axilla, spinal column, umbilical area, inguinal triangle, popliteal fossa, and the antecubital fossa.

Why do you need the toilet after a massage?

First off, massages are dehydrating. Kneading and working muscle gets fluid pumping out of the soft tissue and into your circulatory system, where it heads toward your kidneys. That's why many people have to pee right after a massage.

What do I wear to a massage?

What should I wear to a massage? It is best to wear comfortable, loose-fitted clothing to your treatment. I tend to wear my gym clothing, as it's easy to slip on and off and is super comfortable.

Should I take a muscle relaxer before or after a massage?

Certain medications can cause various reactions to massage and some may even contraindicate massage all together. Medications such as muscle relaxers and heavy duty pain relievers should not be taken before your massage appointment as they can change the way your tissues respond to massage.

How much do you tip after a spa?

Her prior experience includes freelance writing for California newspapers. Money may be the last thing you want to ponder after a tranquil hour, but you may be left wondering: Do you tip a massage therapist? And if so, how much? We spoke to two etiquette experts, who suggested leaving a 15% to 20% tip, if you're able.

Do you wear a bra to the spa?

It's up to you. 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.

What is the rule of spa?

Keep your distance, keep quiet, and do not disturb the peace and quiet of other guests in the sauna. When entering the sauna, leave your slippers at the entrance to the sauna. In the dry sauna, it is only allowed to sit or lie on a lounger with a towel covering the whole area under your body.

Previous article
Does drinking water lower cholesterol?
Next article
Is it good to let your body hair grow?