Do you take your top off in a massage?

One of the most common questions about massage is whether you need to remove your top. The answer depends on the type of massage and your comfort level.


๐Ÿ‘• 1. Type of Massage Matters

  • Full-Body or Swedish Massage:
    Most therapists will ask you to remove your top so they can access your back, shoulders, and neck effectively.

  • Sports or Deep Tissue Massage:
    For muscle recovery, your therapist may need access to the upper back and chest, so removing your top is common.

  • Partial-Body or Relaxation Massage:
    If the massage focuses on legs, arms, or hands, keeping your top on is usually fine.


๐Ÿ›๏ธ 2. Draping Ensures Privacy

  • Professional draping always keeps you covered except for the area being worked on.

  • For example:

    • When massaging your back, the sheet covers your lower body and chest.

    • When turning over, the drape is adjusted to cover your back while working on the front.

  • Draping ensures comfort, modesty, and professionalism.


โš–๏ธ 3. Your Comfort Comes First

  • You are not required to remove your top if it makes you uncomfortable.

  • Many therapists will adapt the session:

    • Massaging over a thin shirt or tank top

    • Focusing only on accessible areas without exposure


โœ… Bottom Line

Yes, in many full-body or upper-back-focused massages, removing your top is standard. But itโ€™s entirely up to your comfort, and professional therapists will always use draping and respect your boundaries.

Back to blog