Spoiler alert: most people secretly worry about what to wear—or not wear—when booking a full body massage. There's that little voice whispering, "Will I be judged for wearing underwear? Should I show up in leggings, loose clothes, or just go for the robe?" Let's just say, you’re not alone. Picking the right clothes for a massage isn’t just about comfort; it actually affects your experience, from how easily you relax to how your massage therapist can do their job. There’s a sweet spot between feeling too exposed and too bundled up, and yes, it’s totally normal to feel a bit awkward if you don’t know the etiquette.
No, you’re not expected to show up in your pajamas, and you definitely shouldn’t arrive in jeans or anything fancy. Whether you're prepping for your very first massage in Dubai or you’re a spa-regular on a hunt for best practices, the right outfit goes a long way. Today, the mystery gets solved with facts, tips, a dose of myth-busting, and zero judgment. Welcome to your ultimate guide for what to wear (or not wear) to a full body massage.
Common Attire Choices for a Full Body Massage
How much should you actually wear? 85% of spas worldwide recommend undressing to your personal comfort level for a full body massage, meaning you have options. Most people go nude under the sheet—the industry standard—because it allows the therapist to access muscles without clothing in the way. But if going totally bare isn’t your vibe, wearing underwear is completely acceptable. Some prefer to keep on their briefs, others choose disposable underwear provided by the spa. Nobody should pressure you to undress more than you want. The real focus is always your comfort and boundaries.
Loose, stretchy clothing is the second most popular pick, especially if you’re getting a fancy Thai or Shiatsu massage, where the therapist works through the clothes. Think cotton shorts, a relaxed-fit T-shirt, or soft leggings—not constricting fabric like denim or anything fancy with buttons and zippers. For pre- and post-massage, don’t forget slip-on shoes or flip-flops, since you’ll need to undress and redress with minimal hassle (and nobody wants to struggle with sneakers when they're relaxed and oily).
Want a pro tip? After your massage, you might be sticky from oil or lotion, so opt for clothes that you don’t mind getting a bit of residue on. Many Dubai spas use rich, fragrant oils that linger nicely but can transfer onto clothing. The absolute worst thing you can wear: anything tight, rough, or with lots of seams that’ll dig in when you lie on the table.
Check out this quick reference table for what’s typical in different massage environments:
| Type of Massage | Recommended Attire | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Swedish | Undress to comfort level, usually nude under sheet | Therapist will always drape you for privacy |
| Thai | Loose, stretchy clothes or spa-provided outfit | Massage is performed clothed, lots of movement |
| Deep Tissue | Nude or underwear | Tight clothing can block access to tense muscles |
| Sports | Shorts and sports bra/underwear (if preferred) | Focuses on specific areas—modesty options available |
| Aromatherapy | Nude under sheet or disposable underwear | Essential oils used, can transfer to fabrics |
Spa Etiquette: What Happens When You Arrive?
Wondering how the whole process rolls out? Once you check in, you'll usually be given a robe and slippers if you haven’t changed already. Most luxury spas in Dubai escort you to a changing room, where you can pop your stuff in a locker. You’ll be told exactly what to do, so don’t worry about figuring it out alone. Therapists step out of the room while you change, and you always get a clean, starched sheet to cover yourself. Draping rules mean only the area being massaged is exposed—your privacy is always protected.
If you’re not comfortable with undressing fully, let your therapist know. Good spas have seen just about everything, so there’s no such thing as a weird request. The therapist will adjust their techniques based on what you’re wearing. And if you’re worried about hygiene, professionally laundered linens and fresh towels are a non-negotiable at reputable spas (if anything feels sketchy, speak up or leave).
Many Dubai spas offer modesty-friendly options, including disposable underwear or gowns. If you have religious or cultural requirements, call the spa ahead—most will gladly accommodate, including assigning same-gender therapists. If you want to keep jewelry or a headscarf on, that's your right too; just let them know so adjustments can be made as they work around your preferences.
Real talk: part of ultimate relaxation comes from not stressing about what’s "normal." The mark of a good spa is one where you feel listened to, not embarrassed. Sometimes, watching how chilled out other guests look can settle your nerves; everyone started somewhere, after all.
Personal Comfort and Choosing the Right Materials
Clothing materials matter more than you’d think. Natural, breathable fabrics like cotton win every time over synthetic blends for one big reason: they don’t trap heat or cause irritation. If you tend to sweat or have sensitive skin, stay away from polyester or nylon. Some spas even sell or provide special massage wear—think of these as upgraded pajamas designed for maximum comfort in warm, humid environments.
If you sweat a lot or have skin allergies, let the front desk or therapist know when you arrive. They’ll recommend hypoallergenic oils and drapes if needed. For more hands-on massages, like deep tissue, you’ll want to keep clothing to a minimum so the therapist can work on large muscle groups efficiently. If you're new and not sure what to expect, bring an extra pair of underwear just in case, and a hair tie if you have long hair—nobody wants to get massage oil in their locks.
One mistake even regulars make: forgetting about their post-massage outfit. Since you’ll be so relaxed (and maybe a little oily), soft, loose clothing is your friend. Avoid anything fancy or form-fitting; now isn’t the time for impressing people with your style. That fresh-out-of-the-spa feeling is hard to beat, so let comfortable clothes carry you the rest of the way.
Plus, if you’re adding any spa extras—like a facial, sauna, or body scrub—make sure your outfit is spa circuit–ready. A tank top or loose cami under your robe takes less effort than wrangling a sports bra. If you’re visiting during the Dubai summer, remember that even the walk from spa entrance to car can get sticky, so bring shades and a sunhat for comfort outside.
Common Questions Answered: Myths, Misconceptions, and Pro Tips
Let’s set the record straight on a few persistent myths. First, it’s not rude to wear underwear during a full body massage, or to stay partially dressed. Your therapist is a professional—trained to handle a range of clothing choices. Draping is there for both privacy and warmth. Speaking of cold rooms, if you’re prone to feeling chilly, ask for an extra sheet or heated table. Good spas will have options ready for you.
Second, don’t panic about body hair, scars, stretch marks, or minor skin blemishes. Therapists see all body types, all day, every day. Their focus is on muscular health and relaxation, not anyone’s looks. You don’t have to shave your legs or exfoliate before your appointment. In fact, a study from the International Spa Association showed that 78% of spa clients admit feeling "more relaxed" when they don’t worry about their appearance going in.
Here's a rapid-fire tip list for first-timers and spa veterans alike:
- Leave jewelry, watches, and valuables at home—they’ll just get in the way or risk being lost.
- Communicate! If you’d rather not remove something, inform your therapist up front.
- For deep tissue or sports massages, minimal clothing is ideal; for clothed styles like Thai massage, wear the outfit the spa provides or loose yoga clothes.
- Use the restroom before your session so there are no mid-massage interruptions.
- Avoid heavy meals, perfumes, or thick lotions just before your appointment.
- Arrive early, at least ten minutes before, so you have time to change and settle.
- If you have skin sensitivities, ask for hypoallergenic oils or creams.
- Stay hydrated—drink water pre- and post-massage to help flush out toxins released by muscle manipulation.
Most importantly, your massage is about full body massage attire that feels right for you. There’s no universal dress code—just best practices developed from years of industry insight and loads of client comfort stories. If in doubt, call the spa. No question is too small, and a five-minute chat can save you hours of worrying or discomfort.
Now you can walk into any Dubai spa (or anywhere else in the world) confidently, knowing exactly what to wear, what’s expected, and how to turn every massage into a no-stress, dreamy escape.
FAQ
- Do I have to get fully undressed for a full body massage?
Only if you’re comfortable. Most people undress completely under a sheet, but wearing underwear is perfectly normal if that helps you relax. - What type of clothing is best for a Thai massage?
Loose, stretchable clothes work best—many spas provide a special outfit for this type of massage. - Will massage oil stain my clothes?
There’s a chance some oil may linger on your skin, so wear something loose and easy to wash after your session. - Can I ask for a same-gender therapist if I feel more comfortable?
Absolutely—most spas, especially in Dubai, respect such preferences. Just call ahead when booking. - Do I need to bring anything with me for a massage?
Not usually. The spa provides robes, towels, and lockers. Bring a hair tie or extra underwear if you want, but nothing special is required.
