Getting a massage can be one of the most relaxing things we do for ourselves, but figuring out how much to tip can be an awkward and confusing task. Lucky for you, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to! Whether it’s your first time getting a massage or your hundredth, follow this guide for tipping etiquette that won’t rub anyone the wrong way.
Why Tipping is Important
Let's start with why tipping in general is important. Tipping shows appreciation for exceptional service and helps service industry workers earn fair wages. Some might argue that they already pay their masseuse enough when paying them directly, but keeping in mind how hard massage therapists work and how taxing massages can be on their own muscles makes adding extra gratuities necessary.
Massage therapy involves pressing down on several pressure points using physical techniques like rubbing, stroking and pressing targeted areas such as joints or muscles which mostly brings comforting or healing sensation although at times it could lead to minor pain due to chronic tension release; hence 'being kind' by showing gratification while adhering under the unwritten code establishes professional rapport worth returning clients.
When deciding how much to tip your masseuse remember that since they often get paid per client, tips help supplement an average hourly rate of $20-$50ish according to variety.com
Standard Massage Tips
It's commonly understood that standard practice sees 15%-20% (that means properly shelling out two dollars from every ten), being adequate when giving tips after spa services rendered
However/be advised sometimes Masseuses primarily working at expensive high-end spas hope upto a 25% payout--so It depends predominantly over personal preference based upon treatment quality experience & also pocket flip/fiscal capabilities at times – some even appreciate additional gestures before taking any issue with amount discrepancies
Some places may automatically add a gratuity charge, so be sure to check in advance before deciding how much to tip. An automatic service fee may make sense for the spa or salon if they have added extra services that are not included in the base price (i.e. hot stones or aromatherapy). In some cases , you can consider getting checkout from reception especially when youre uncertain of appropriate tip amount to bestow .
Other Factors That Affect Tipping
The price of your massage shouldn’t necessarily dictate the amount of your tip at high end spas but it could help set a soft bar; Factoring duration, depth/intensity and specialty such like lymphatic drainage massages which may at times require additional work, time and attention all tend into consideration when determining conversely/or even instead ,how steep/generous tips should/may run.
Communication is a big factor in tipping as well. If you were displeased with some aspect of your massage-related experience/conversation its imperative brought up during appointments versus leaving entirely disappointed typically regarding any untouched/missed spots majorly due to potential therapist oversight --if more likely related to lack of communication though this depends on client-therapist relationship Best believe it becomes less thrilling each Consecutive visit! Hence producing a 'lukewarm' effect affecting rapport building
Lastly customer preferences come into play too-whether clients prefer aesthetically setup environment/equipment/modernity etcetera . Considering guests age-range & demography plays role here viz-a-vis type adjustment
In conclusion
Tipping is subjective yet integral task; mastering proper decorum remains way ahead always –while staying appreciative physically sensible reactions towards rigors appreciated although directing engagements appropriately calls largely upon mutual collaboration between masseuse-client
- Sources
Glossary 'lymphatic drainage massages: specific to lymphedema practices that involves gentle massaging of the lymph nodes+effected areas