What to Wear to a Nuru Massage — Complete Preparation Guide
What to Wear to Your Nuru Massage
The short answer: wear whatever is comfortable. You'll change out of your clothes at the beginning of the session, so there's no special outfit required.
That said, here are practical recommendations:
Best choices: - Casual, comfortable clothing you can easily remove - Loose-fitting pants or a skirt - A t-shirt or button-up - Slip-on shoes (no complex laces) - Simple undergarments
Avoid: - Complicated outfits with many layers or buttons - Tight jeans that are difficult to remove - Clothing you'd be upset about getting a small gel spot on (rare but possible) - Heavy cologne or perfume — the gel has no scent and strong fragrances can be distracting
What Your Provider Supplies
A professional NYC nuru massage provider supplies everything you need:
- Nuru gel (warmed to body temperature)
- Waterproof surface or inflatable mattress
- Clean towels (multiple, for during and after)
- Shower facilities (before and after the session)
- Robe or wrap (for moving between shower and massage area)
- Water (staying hydrated is important)
You literally need to bring nothing except yourself. If you're doing an outcall (provider comes to you), they bring all supplies with them.
What to Bring
Required: Nothing.
Optional: - Cash for payment (most common payment method) - A change of underwear (if you prefer) - Your own water bottle - Phone (for navigation — turn off during session)
Do NOT bring: - Your own gel or oils (providers use their preferred products) - Jewelry (remove before the session — rings, watches, necklaces) - Valuables you're worried about (providers have secure areas, but minimize what you carry)
Pre-Session Hygiene
This is the most important preparation:
- Shower before your appointment — this is non-negotiable and a sign of respect
- No cologne/perfume — the nuru gel works best on clean, unscented skin
- Trim nails — long or jagged nails can scratch during full-body contact
- Brush teeth if you had a strong meal — you'll be in close proximity
- Light grooming is appreciated but not required
Most providers offer a shower at the beginning of the session if you haven't had a chance to shower beforehand (arriving from work, for example). See our complete etiquette guide for more.
Day-Of Preparation Checklist
- Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before (not too full, not hungry)
- Hydrate well throughout the day
- Shower or plan to use provider's facilities
- Remove jewelry before arriving
- Confirm appointment time and address with provider
- Bring cash (or confirm alternative payment methods)
- Put your phone on silent
- Allow buffer time — don't rush from or to another commitment
Read our complete first-timer guide for everything else you need to know.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear underwear during the session? Nuru massage is traditionally performed without clothing for full skin-to-skin contact with the gel. However, if you're more comfortable keeping underwear on for part of the session, communicate that to your provider.
What happens to my clothes during the session? Your provider will have a designated area for your clothing and belongings. Items are kept separate from the massage area to avoid gel contact.
Should I shave or wax before a nuru massage? This is entirely personal preference. Neither shaved nor unshaved bodies affect the quality of the massage. Do whatever makes you feel comfortable.