Why can't I shower after a massage?

Author: Maiya Adams  |  Last update: Thursday, July 24, 2025

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.

Is it okay to shower after a massage?

It's generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours after a massage before taking a shower to allow the oils and lotions used during the massage to fully absorb into the skin. This allows for maximum relaxation and effectiveness of the massage.

What is not allowed after a 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.

Why is having a shower after a massage session not good for the client?

Showering after a massage is not recommended because it can cause the muscles to become cold, which can lead to muscle tension and soreness. Additionally, showering can wash away the beneficial oils and lotions that are used during the massage.

How long should you rest after a massage?

After a massage, it's generally recommended to rest for about 15 to 30 minutes. This allows your body to continue the relaxation process and helps to enhance the benefits of the massage. Staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities for the rest of the day can also be beneficial.

After Massage Tips

What are the symptoms of detoxing after a massage?

Hydrating and resting can help alleviate these symptoms. After a massage, mild detox symptoms can occur as the body eliminates toxins. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle soreness, and headaches due to the release of lactic acid and other waste products.

Why do you sleep better after a massage?

Massage also has positive effects on the nervous system, which can aid in sleep, explains Dana Davis, massage therapist and owner of Midnight Sun Massage. “Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is in charge of the body's rest-and-relaxation response,” she says.

What are 3 instances when massage is not recommended?

Certain skin conditions, such as open wounds, burns, rashes, or contagious skin infections (like impetigo or fungal infections), should not be treated with massage. Even non-contagious skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be aggravated by massage if not handled carefully.

What happens if you don't stay hydrated after a massage?

Dehydration can lead to mood swings, irritability, and difficulty concentrating – all of which can detract from the positive effects of your massage session. By staying properly hydrated, you can enhance the overall relaxation and stress-relief benefits of your treatment.

Why masseuse burp when massaging?

It's possible that a masseuse burps because he or she receives the effect of the massage itself. “I mean, masseuses use their energy when applying pressures. So maybe, since they're using their own hands, and the therapy oils, there's a stimulation on their palms.

What body parts should not be massaged?

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 have to go to the bathroom after a massage?

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. (Naumann Carlstrom says some of her clients can't get up from the table fast enough.)

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.

What shouldn't you do after a massage?

We have listed ten (10) things that you should not do after a massage.
  1. Not Drinking Enough Water. ...
  2. Take A Shower Immediately. ...
  3. Taking Hot Shower. ...
  4. Eating A Large Meal. ...
  5. Drinking Coffee. ...
  6. Drinking Alcohol. ...
  7. Doing Strenuous Exercise or Activities. ...
  8. Stressing Yourself Out.

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.

How to remove massage oil from body?

Use a dry towel to wipe down your body first, then use dawn dish soap with lukewarm water, then dry off.

Why can't you get wet 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.

Can I skip shower after massage?

While you can shower after a massage, waiting at least 2-3 hours allows your body to fully benefit from the oils. You can take a lukewarm shower (skip the hot water) a few hours after the massage. Remember to use a gentle cleanser to rinse off any excess oil, but stay away from harsh soaps and scrubbing.

What is the best drink after a massage?

Drinking water improves the body's ability to deal with fatigue and pain in general. Along with hydrating, take a day to rest after a massage, and try to avoid intense exercise to give your muscles a chance to catch their breath.

What areas are off limits during a massage?

These include direct manipulation of the spine, the front of the neck, and any visibly injured or inflamed areas.

What are the disadvantages of too much massage?

Side effects associated with massage therapy are rare. However, they can include nausea, headaches, soreness in the muscles being massaged, bruising or bleeding in some cases, fatigue, dizziness, mental/emotional discomfort (anxiety), fainting, and skin irritation.

Can you get blood drawn after a massage?

If you are planning to start using medication, perform tests before or after treatment, and no sooner than 10-14 days post-treatment. If you are taking any medication, tell your doctor or laboratory specialist. Blood testing is not recommended after massage therapy, reflexotherapy or physiotherapy.

What happens if you fall asleep during a massage?

While some might see it as a sign of boredom or lack of engagement, the truth is that falling asleep during a massage is actually a common and beneficial occurrence. In fact, it's often a sign that the massage is doing its job properly.

Are massages better in the morning or night?

It's always better to get your massage after you have exercised. If you tend to get sleepy from a massage, you should have it as late in the day as possible so that you can just go home afterwards. If you don't want massage to take time out of your day, you can get one early in the morning.

Where to press to fall asleep?

The most common pressure points for sleep are:
  • Yin tang, above the bridge of the nose and between the eyes.
  • An mian, on the neck behind the earlobes.
  • KD1, located in the middle of the foot.
  • KD3, just above the heel on the inside of the foot (also known as the Taixi)
  • LV3, on the foot where the big toe and next toe connect.

Previous article
Which pushup is best for the chest?
Next article
Does anything work to tighten neck skin?