How Much Clothes Do You Take Off for a Massage? A Helpful Guide from The Mark of Massage

If you’re new to massage therapy or just wondering about the etiquette, one of the most common questions we hear at The Mark of Massage is: “How much do I need to take off?” The short answer is simple and reassuring: You undress to your level of comfort. There’s no strict rule—professional massage therapists prioritize your privacy, relaxation, and boundaries above everything else.

With over 20 years of experience since 2004, I’ve worked with all kinds of people in Castle Rock, Colorado, and the surrounding areas (within about 30 minutes of our home office at 216 Douglas Fir Ave, 80104). Whether you’re coming to me for a therapeutic deep tissue session to ease chronic tension, a sports massage after hitting the trails, trigger point work for stubborn knots, prenatal relief, hot stone relaxation, Esalen flow, structural integration, or something lighter, the undressing part is always handled with care and discretion.

The Standard Approach for Most Sessions

For typical table-based massages (like Swedish-inspired relaxation, deep tissue, sports, hot stone, or structural integration):

•  Most clients choose to undress completely (nude under the drape) or down to their underwear (briefs, boxers, or sports bra/panties).

•  This allows full access to the back, shoulders, glutes, hips, and legs without restrictions, especially when using oil or lotion for smoother gliding and deeper work.

•  Women often remove bras to avoid oil stains and for unrestricted shoulder/back access.

•  You’ll always be fully draped with a sheet or towel—only the area being worked on is uncovered at any time. Private areas (glutes, breasts, genitals) stay covered, no exceptions.

The therapist steps out of the room (or gives you space in an in-home setup) while you get comfortable on the table, face down under the top sheet to start. They knock and ask if you’re ready before entering.

Special Considerations for Different Massage Types

•  Therapeutic styles (deep tissue, sports, trigger point, structural integration): Undressing more (to underwear or nude) is ideal for optimal results, as it lets us target deeper muscles without fabric interference.

•  Prenatal massage: Comfort is key—many expectant moms keep underwear on or wear loose, comfortable maternity wear if preferred. We adapt fully.

•  Hot stone or Esalen: Similar to therapeutic—most go to underwear or nude for oil/hot stone flow.

•  Lighter relaxation styles: You can keep more on if you like, but for the best experience, less clothing helps.

If you prefer staying fully clothed, we can adjust (e.g., focus on areas accessible over clothes or suggest seated options), though it may limit some techniques.

In-Home or Mobile Massage Specifics

Since The Mark of Massage is primarily mobile/in-home (I come to you for ultimate convenience), or you can visit our private lower-level space in Castle Rock (a tranquil setup in our family home—sessions are fully private in the dedicated area, though you might hear occasional kid sounds from upstairs outside the room):

•  Privacy is still top priority—I step out while you undress and get under the provided sheets on the portable table (or your bed/floor setup).

•  Bring or wear loose, easy-to-remove clothes to the session.

•  The draping rules are the same: professional, modest, and focused only on the treatment area.

Quick Tips to Feel at Ease

•  Communicate! Tell me your preferences upfront—I’m here to make you comfortable.

•  Wear loose clothing to arrive in (sweats, yoga pants, t-shirt)—easy on/off.

•  No need to worry about grooming—therapists are professionals and non-judgmental.

•  If it’s your first time, starting with underwear on is totally fine; you can always adjust next time.

Your comfort leads to the best results—whether you’re seeking deep therapeutic relief or pure relaxation. Ready to book a personalized session in Castle Rock or nearby? Contact The Mark of Massage today for in-home convenience or a visit to our home office.

Sources for Verification (based on current 2025-2026 professional guidelines and etiquette):

•  WikiHow: “What Do You Wear to a Massage? 13 Rules and Tips” – Emphasizes undressing to comfort level with draping (https://www.wikihow.com/What-to-Wear-to-a-Massage)

•  Mind & Body Sioux City: “6 Massage Etiquette Questions” – Undress to comfort, many keep underwear or go nude (https://www.mindandbodysiouxcity.com/6-massage-etiquette-questions/)

•  Annalisa Derryberry, LMT: “What to Wear (or not) During Your Massage” – Leave on as much or little as you like, with draping adjustments (https://www.derryberrymassage.com/blog/what-to-wear-or-not-during-your-massage)

•  High Society Mobile Massage: Advice for mobile/in-home, no need to undress completely unless comfortable (https://highsocietymassage.com/what-to-wear-to-a-massage/)

•  Various industry sources (e.g., Reddit r/massage community, professional blogs): Consistent consensus on “undress to your level of comfort” with professional draping.

We can’t wait to help you unwind—your well-being is our priority! 😊