It feels like there’s this unspoken anxiety the first time a guy books a full-body massage: what are you supposed to wear? Are you going to get it wrong and feel awkward, or worse, end up uncomfortably exposed? Believe it or not, this small detail is one of the most common reasons why some men put off trying massage therapy. Knowing exactly what’s expected—and what’s comfortable—makes the whole thing way less nerve-racking. Fact: research from the American Massage Therapy Association found that over 30% of first-time male clients felt unsure about spa dress code and etiquette, which sometimes kept them from booking a session. Honestly, isn’t that wild? So, if you’re still hesitating or just want to look confident on your next appointment, let’s clear up all those ‘what do I wear?’ questions and make your massage as calm as it’s supposed to be.
Understanding Standard Massage Dress Code for Men
The dress code for massages is surprisingly simple. In most Western spas and massage clinics, men are usually encouraged to undress to their comfort level—meaning, you never have to get more naked than you want. Yes, magazines sometimes show people wrapped in nothing but a towel, but reality is more flexible. Underwear, boxers, briefs, or even gym shorts are perfectly fine if that makes you feel safer. The most important thing is feeling relaxed and trusting your therapist to keep you draped with a sheet or towel so private areas are never exposed.
Almost every qualified massage therapist is trained in professional draping techniques. Draping means the therapist covers your body with a large sheet or towel and only uncovers the part they’re working on, one section at a time (think back, arms, legs—but never more than the area being treated). This keeps things feeling private, safe, and respectful. Actually, a lot of guys are surprised by how little bare skin is ever seen during a quality massage. Plus, draping rules are strict not just for comfort, but for legal reasons, too. If you feel nervous, just let your therapist know—it’s super normal, and most professionals will talk you through the process before starting.
One more thing: spas rarely supply disposable underwear for men, but some high-end wellness centers in bigger cities do offer them. They look just like light boxer briefs and can be used if you’ve forgotten to bring your own or don’t want to use yours. But most of the time, you’ll keep your own underwear on—and nobody blinks an eye. If you go fully nude (which is usually allowed in Swedish or deep tissue massages in the US or Europe), therapists still drape you the exact same way, so nothing private is ever exposed. If you’re in doubt, or want a truly private experience, always ask before your appointment.
Massage Types and How They Affect What Men Wear
What you wear depends a lot on the kind of massage you’re getting. Massage isn’t a one-size-fits-all world, and different techniques have different dress codes. Here’s the breakdown. For a classic Swedish or deep tissue massage, most men simply strip to their underwear or go nude under the sheet. These styles use oil or lotion, so clothing just gets in the way. If you’re self-conscious, boxers or briefs stay on and therapists easily work around them. But for massages with lots of stretching or movement—like Thai or Shiatsu—you keep your clothes on (think gym shorts and a T-shirt, not jeans or anything stiff).
Sports massages might mean you’re still in athletic wear or just shorts, depending on which muscles need work. Therapists will rearrange towels to keep you modest. Hot stone massages follow the same guidance as Swedish: underwear or fully undressed with draping. For reflexology, only your socks and shoes come off, so there’s almost nothing to worry about. The same goes for hand or scalp massages, where your shirt might be unbuttoned or collar loosened, but you’re not expected to undress beyond what feels okay.
If you’re heading to a men’s spa, hammam, or bathhouse, things get a bit more culturally specific. In European or Middle Eastern spas, men sometimes wear nothing (again, strict draping happens, except in communal spaces, where towels are the norm). In Japan, public baths expect men to wash naked, but for professional massages at those locations, modesty towels are provided. The bottom line? There’s no set “male uniform”—your best bet is to ask ahead what’s expected and what’s common. Reading the room (or the website) is always key.
Common Questions and Misconceptions About Men's Massage Attire
One of the weirdest myths out there is that men have to get fully naked for a massage or they’re “doing it wrong”—not true at all. Across almost every spa in the US, UK, and Australia, therapists are used to men leaving underwear on. If you do decide to keep your clothes on, the therapist will still be able to work their magic through the sheet and on exposed areas like arms, neck, or legs. Another misconception: bigger guys, or those worried about body image, shouldn’t undress as much. Fact is, every body type comes through the door, and therapists have seen it all (they genuinely don’t care—your comfort is what matters).
Worried about leaving oil marks on your underwear or gym shorts? Most professional massage oils wash out easily, and therapists even place an extra towel on the massage table to keep things tidy. Some guys bring a spare set of underwear just for the massage—totally optional, but it can feel fresh if you’re going back to work or heading out afterward. And, no, you don’t need fancy spa attire. Clean, basic, comfortable is the gold standard. If you show up in work clothes after the gym, nobody will judge you.
One more thing guys get anxious about: erections during massage. It happens sometimes due to relaxation and has zero to do with arousal. Therapists are pros at ignoring it, shifting focus, and moving along. You can keep underwear on if this makes you feel more at ease. Bathe or shower before your appointment if possible, but don’t stress if you can’t—the therapist will cover the table, and everybody knows most people come straight from work or the gym. And if there’s ever anything that feels awkward, mention it before you get started. Every good therapist wants you totally comfortable.
Practical Tips for Men Before, During, and After a Full-Body Massage
For your first massage or fiftieth, here are tried-and-true ways to feel prepared. Eat light—heavy meals can make you drowsy or sluggish when you’re lying face down. Pack a change of underwear if you’re nervous about oil. Wear loose, comfy clothes—belts, dress pants, and tight t-shirts are overkill for massage day. If you’re coming from work or the gym, give yourself five minutes before your session to breathe and switch modes. Arriving early helps you fill out any paperwork (some spas ask about allergies, medical conditions, or preferences like firmness levels).
Once you arrive at the spa, the receptionist (or your therapist) will explain where to change and where to wait. Most spas provide lockers or a private changing area. Before the massage, tell the therapist any injuries or pressure points—this isn’t oversharing, it helps customize your treatment. They’ll step out while you undress and get under the sheet or towel, then knock before re-entering. If you want to keep socks or underwear on, just do it. You set the boundaries.
During the session, speak up if anything feels too firm, too light, or you need another towel. If you want music volume changed or you’re too cold, just ask. Afterward, therapists usually step out so you can re-dress in privacy. Drink water—massages boost circulation, and rehydrating helps flush out muscle waste. Don’t rush to leave; give yourself a moment to enjoy the afterglow. And don’t be shy about tipping generously if you loved the experience—15–25% is standard for a good therapist in the US. The focus is always your comfort, which is why knowing what to wear (and not to wear) lets you get the absolute most from a full-body massage.
FAQ
- Do I have to be naked for a full-body massage? No, you can keep underwear on. Only undress as much as you feel comfortable. Therapists use draping to protect your privacy.
- Should I wear boxers, briefs, or shorts for a massage? Any of these options are fine. Choose what feels most comfortable and secure for you.
- What if I get an erection during my massage? It’s a normal, physiological reaction. Therapists are trained professionals and will respond in a discreet, non-judgmental way.
- Are disposable underwear provided at most spas? Usually not, but some high-end spas do offer them. You can always bring your own spare pair if concerned.
- Can I ask questions about clothing before my appointment? Absolutely. Contact the spa ahead of time with any concerns about dress code or etiquette. They’ve heard every question before!
