Do I need to shave before getting a massage?

Getting a massage is intended to be therapeutic and relaxing. However, we understand that some people may feel vulnerable at times or feel the need to prepare before a session. 

Our goal at PRESS is to always make clients feel empowered and comfortable in their bodies. The hour or more you invest in yourself should translate to a meaningful and stress-free experience, without worry about physical embodiments of the human experience, like scars, stretch marks, cellulite, or body hair. These are all normal parts of life that, if anything, should be celebrated as signs of our aliveness and resilience. 

So do you need to shave before getting a massage? Our response to this FAQ is simple: it's entirely up to you and what you're most comfortable with.

"It makes no difference to us, and it will not affect your massage" said Kurt, LMT at Williamsburg. "If you're comfortable not shaving, we're comfortable as well." 

Trust us on this one: massage therapists are not considering your body hair during a session. Instead, they are focused on helping you relax, getting to your trouble areas, identifying and reducing referral pain, and supporting your overall well-being. 

However, if you prefer hair removal and would be able to relax more without it, that works too. If you shave, try to do it at least four hours prior to your appointment to avoid possible irritation.

If we could recommend only one thing before a massage, it's this: drink water.