How to Wear Your Hair During a Massage

Are you new to massage and wondering what to do with your hair?  We’ve got answers!  The short answer is this: You can either put it up on top of your, or leave it loose.  Most importantly: don’t stress about what to do with your hair, or really, ANYTHING prior to your massage.  The goal of therapeutic massage is primarily to help you RELAX, and if you arrive ready to lay down on our table and chill, the details need not put you in a knot!

Now the above short answer leaves out a few additional options, so let’s review those, along with addressing other hair matters which might be anxiety producing.  

What if I don’t want you to mess up my hair?

We 100% understand that!  If you’ve just had your hair done, or have an event scheduled after your  massage, please let us know.  In this case with can either ENTIRELY skip the scalp massage, or just avoid using any massage cream or oil above the shoulders.  We have one regular client who let’s us “go to town” on her hair about every 4th visit, but has us avoid her hair and scalp entirely most of the time.  Massage hair is a REAL THING, and it’s just not the look some folks are going for.

What if I wear a wig, or have hair extensions?

If you wear a wig, you will likely want to remove it during the massage.  When you get a massage you will be in a private room while you disrobe before the massage and when you get dressed again after your service.  You will enter and exit your massage looking how you want!  Be sure to let your therapist know if they should include scalp massage or skip it.  Same goes for hair extensions.  They don’t cause any problems for scalp massage, but if you would rather we leave them be, just say nay!

Should I bring a satin bonnet or a headband?

Sure!  These are both great ways to keep your hair out of your face during the massage.  If you do go for a headband, a soft fabric style is best.  Avoid plastic or metal during your massage.

Should I put my hair up?

If your hair is long, and you don’t wish to leave it loose, putting it up is a great option.  We always recommend the top of the head if possible.  Two puffs on either side of the head, or pigtails are good too!  Anything that will be comfortable when you are laying face up on the table AND face down on the table.  You will want to avoid a plastic or metal hair clip, and even a soft bun at the back of the neck is a bad idea.  This position means you will be laying on your hair, and your massage therapist cannot access your neck and base of the skull.  It’s difficult to help you  with headaches, neck pain or shoulder issues if you are wearing a hair pillow at the nape of your neck.

What if I didn’t shave my legs before my massage?

We absolutely could not care less.  We work on lots of people who never shave their legs.  Leg hair of every length, including two day stubble, does not interfere with your massage.  

What if I have a hairy back?

It definitely does not bother your massage therapist. Some clients have mentioned that they prefer NO OIL OR CREAM on their back.  If this is the case, we can modify our technique and work on your back without oil or cream.  

I forgot a hair tie!

No problem!  We have hair elastics in each treatment room.  Just ask your therapist if you need one!

Is my hair going to get oily?

During a massage we do include scalp massage, and it is likely you will get some massage cream or oil in your hair.  We also provide what I jokingly refer to as a “free volumizing treatment” - because scalp massage does tend to leave hair bigger than before, and often pointing in directions that defy gravity.  For many clients scalp massage is a treasured part of the massage experience, and “massage hair” is just a little souvenir of the experience.  So DO KNOW that this happens, and if you want to avoid this, just ask us to skip the scalp!

Should I plan to shower and shampoo after my massage?

Many clients plan the timing of their massage so that they will have time to shower and/or shampoo their hair after the appointment.  While we don’t have shower facilities at our shop, this tip was mentioned by one of our regulars as part of her five star planning technique.  Some clients who are headed home bring Pajamas to change into after their massage too!

Pro-tip: Bring a hat!

If you feel self-conscious about the inevitable massage hair, follow the lead of some of our clever regulars and bring a hat!  You won’t be wearing it during the session, it’ll be worn after!

So that’s it!  Put it up, or don’t.  But don’t stress about what to do with your hair during a massage!  And if there’s anything we missed, let us know in the comments below!