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.
๐ 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.
๐๏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.
โ๏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
-
โ Bottom Line
Yes, in many full-body or upper-back-focused massages, removing your top is standard. But itโs entirely up to your comfort, and professional therapists will always use draping and respect your boundaries.