Should I shower before or after a massage?

Author: Ms. Ocie Lakin  |  Last update: Thursday, July 31, 2025

Let's get one thing out of the way: experienced massage therapists agree that taking a shower before your massage is a always a good idea. You should rinse off chlorine, perspiration or environmental pollutants before your treatment or therapy, because you don't want all that to be rubbed into your skin.

Is it better to have a shower before or after a massage?

After: It's generally better to wait at least a few hours before showering to allow your body to fully absorb the benefits of the massage. These practices can help maximize the effectiveness of your massage and ensure a more enjoyable experience.

What should you not do before a massage?

  • 1. Eating a heavy meal before the massage
  • 2. Drinking alcohol or caffeine before the massage
  • 3. Being dehydrated
  • 4. Wearing jewelry or other accessories that could interfere with the massage
  • 5. Not communicating with your massage therapist about any injuries or areas of sensitivity Upvote Profile photo for Ssaamir

Do you shower before or after the spa?

After cupping, the skin is in a state of healing, making it more sensitive and fragile. Taking a shower or bath at this time can potentially lead to skin damage or inflammation. So the answers here are to avoid showering and bathing for a few hours both before AND after a massage, cupping, or spa-type session.

Should you wash your hair before or after a massage?

Some folks shower and wash their hair before a massage. If you're super sweaty or dirty, that's totally fine. But washing your hair prior is really not necessary in most cases. Save the hair washing for after the massage if having lotion in it bothers you.

After Massage Tips

Is it rude to not shower before a massage?

Be sure to come in fresh and clean before your appointment. You don't want any sweat, chlorine or grime rubbed into your skin. Plus, it's just the polite thing to do for your massage therapist. If you have time, a nice, warm shower can help relax your mind and your muscles before your treatment.

What is the first rule of massage therapy?

The first rule of massage therapy is to ensure the comfort and safety of the client. This includes creating a comfortable and relaxing environment, using proper techniques and pressure, and communicating effectively with the client to ensure that they are comfortable with the massage.

Should you shower before or after lymphatic massage?

Take a warm bath or shower

A warm bath or shower can help relax the muscles and soothe the skin after the massage.

How much should I tip a massage therapist?

Standard Tip Percentage Guidelines for a Massage

A good rule of thumb for tipping in the massage industry is between 15% and 20% of the total service cost, which is the standard practice in the broader service industry.

Is it okay to sleep after a massage?

Rest. If clients are feeling tired or fatigued after a deep tissue massage, one of the best things they can do is rest. Whether it's mental or physical fatigue, a nap, a good night's sleep or simply just doing nothing for a while can be incredibly restorative and help the body to re-tune itself.

Why can't you 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 is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

What to wear to a full body 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.

What not to do 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.

What kind of shower is best after massage?

Epsom salt baths are an excellent way to relieve muscle soreness and promote relaxation after a massage therapy session. The magnesium in Epsom salt helps to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and relax muscles. Adding Epsom salt to your bath water can also help to reduce muscle cramps, spasms, and pain.

Should you take ibuprofen before a massage?

if you are in enough pain that you must take medication it is best to reschedule your massage. Muscle relaxers, mood stabilizers, and pain medications can interfere with your perception of pain and/or your ability to communicate with your massage therapist.

Is $20 a good tip for a 90 minute massage?

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

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. If you're unsure, it's always a safe bet to stick within this range.

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 it rude to not tip for a massage?

Since tips are standard protocol for a private masseuse, you should assume a 20 percent tip in any massage or spa treatment situation (unless a self-employed therapist specifically tells you their rate is all-inclusive). Not sure? When in doubt, always ask, says Post, who says tipping is always appreciated.

Should I shower before or after a full body massage?

The Verdict:

Ultimately, it depends on your preference. If you prefer to shower before and make sure that the areas Sandra Diaz Massage is working on are clean, then go for it! On the other hand, if you like feeling refreshed after a massage, then showering afterward might be the better option for you.

Where does lymphatic fluid go after massage?

When something disrupts this process, lymph collects in your arms, legs, ankles or other parts of your body, making them swell. A massage therapist uses lymphatic drainage techniques to move lymph from your tissues to your lymph nodes, which eases the swelling.

How do I know if my lymphatic system is clogged?

Lymphedema signs and symptoms include:
  • Swelling of part or all of the arm or leg, including fingers or toes.
  • A feeling of heaviness or tightness.
  • Restricted range of motion.
  • Recurring infections.
  • Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)

What are the four T's of massage?

The four T's of massage are:
  • Skin/body temperature.
  • Muscle/facia tone.
  • Muscle or tissue texture, and finally.
  • Tenderness to palpation – which is subjective to the patient.

What is the most favorite body part to be massaged?

The back is one of the most requested areas in any massage. It's where many people carry stress, tension, and discomfort from sitting, standing, or physical activity. Therapists focus on the upper, middle, and lower back to release tightness and improve mobility. The neck and shoulders are another high-tension zone.

Do you turn over during a massage?

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

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