What to Wear for an Ayurvedic Massage: Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Panchakarma Guide

Ayurvedic oils don’t forgive. They smell amazing, work deep, and stain anything they touch. That’s why what you wear to an Ayurvedic massage matters more than at a regular spa. If you only want the short answer: expect to undress to your comfort, keep underwear on (often disposable), and plan for oil in your hair and on your clothes after. If you want zero awkward moments and no ruined laundry, read on.

TL;DR: What to Wear for an Ayurvedic Massage

Here’s the fast, practical answer most first-timers want.

• Standard Abhyanga (full-body oil massage): Keep underwear on. Most clinics give disposable briefs; if not, wear dark, old cotton ones. Bras usually off. You’ll be draped.
• Shirodhara (oil on forehead): Your top can stay on if it’s loose and washable, but hair will get oily. Use a wrap or towel around shoulders. Bring a hat or scarf for afterward.
• Udvartana (herbal powder massage): Wear disposable briefs or old underwear. It’s messy but less oily than Abhyanga.
• Pinda Sweda/Kizhi (herbal poultice): Similar to Abhyanga-disposable briefs, draping, lots of oil.
• Panchakarma programs: Clinics often provide simple cotton wraps/loincloths. Expect same-gender therapists and minimal personal clothing during therapies.

Quick rules of thumb:

• If oil will touch it, don’t wear anything you care about.
• Old cotton > synthetics. Cotton breathes and handles heat; synthetics can feel sticky with oil.
• Pack: spare underwear, hair tie, dark T-shirt or shawl for the ride home, easy-slip footwear, and a zip bag for oily items.

Many Ayurvedic centers follow draping and modesty norms similar to professional massage. In India, same-gender therapists are standard in traditional settings (aligned with Ministry of AYUSH training norms); abroad, you can usually request this. Ask ahead if it matters to you.

Yes, you can keep more clothing on if you want. Tell your therapist. They’ll adapt techniques and draping. Comfort first, always.

And if you’re optimizing for SEO, the phrase you’re probably searching is ayurvedic massage attire. Now, the full how-to.

What to Wear by Treatment Type (and Why)

Clothing choices change with the therapy because oil, heat, and draping vary. Here’s how it works across the common treatments.

Abhyanga (full-body warm oil massage)

What you wear: disposable briefs or old, dark underwear. Bras off for chest and upper back access; if you prefer to keep a bra on, choose an old, non-padded cotton bra (it may get oil-stained). You’re draped with towels; only the area being worked on is uncovered.

Why: Abhyanga uses a generous amount of warm oil (often sesame or coconut). Therapists need access to long, synchronized strokes along the limbs and torso. Draping protects modesty while allowing effective work.

What to expect: Oil in scalp is common if your therapist includes a head massage. Your feet will be slippery, so move slowly when getting off the table.

Shirodhara (steady oil stream over the forehead)

What you wear: top and bottoms you don’t mind getting oil on, or a salon-style wrap/robe provided by the clinic. Most people wear their own underwear; many clinics provide a wrap for the upper body. Hair will get oily-plan around it.

Why: Oil runs from the forehead into the hairline and sometimes down the sides. Drapes and towels handle drips but not all of them.

What to expect: You lie on your back. The room is warm to keep you comfortable. Bring a headband or scarf for the trip home.

Udvartana (herbal powder massage)

What you wear: disposable briefs or old underwear. Skin should be bare for friction strokes. Bras are optional; many remove for even pressure and to avoid collecting powder.

Why: The therapist uses dry or slightly oiled herbal powders to exfoliate and stimulate lymph flow. It’s dusty, but less slick than Abhyanga.

What to expect: Some redness from friction is normal and fades. Shower after, since powder lingers in creases.

Pinda Sweda / Kizhi (hot herbal poultice)

What you wear: Disposable briefs, full draping. Expect oil. If you’re heat-sensitive, tell the therapist-they can cool the boluses slightly.

Why: The heated boluses are dipped in oil or herbal decoctions and pressed or tapped along muscles and joints.

Nasya, Basti, and other Panchakarma therapies

What you wear: Clinic-provided cotton wraps or loincloths are common. For external therapies, disposable briefs under drapes. For specialized medical procedures, your physician will guide exact clothing (and may provide sterile garments).

Why: These are clinical in nature and follow medical protocols. Traditional facilities prioritize modesty and hygiene, with same-gender attendants.

Regional and setting differences

• India (authentic clinics): Expect same-gender therapists, minimal but secure draping, and clinic-provided garments or disposable briefs. Kerala’s tourism classifications encourage clear standards for hygiene and privacy.
• Resort spas: More spa-like robes and wraps, luxurious towels, and disposable underwear. Therapists will adapt to your comfort.
• Urban wellness studios abroad: Similar to Western massage norms-undress to your comfort. Say if you don’t want oil in hair.

All of this hangs on one principle: consent. Tell your therapist what you want covered, where to avoid, and how much pressure feels right. Professional Ayurvedic training (as adopted in AYUSH and major academies) emphasizes privacy, same-gender options, and clear draping.

Evidence notes: Traditional texts and modern training use warm oils (often sesame) for dosha-balancing and tissue lubrication. Modern protocols (taught under Ministry of AYUSH syllabi and Ayurvedic hospital SOPs) stress clear consent, same-gender therapists for comfort, and proper draping. Sesame and coconut oils are common; check allergies if you have sesame, coconut, or nut sensitivities.

Step-by-Step: Before, During, After Your Session

Use this simple flow to feel prepared and avoid stained clothes or awkward moments.

Before you go (the day before and morning of)

1. Confirm the therapy: Ask the clinic/spa exactly which treatment you’re getting and how oily it is. Ask if they provide disposable underwear and a shower after.
2. Pack smart: Old dark underwear, hair tie, wide-tooth comb, dark T-shirt or scarf for afterward, zip bag for oily items, face wipes, and a small towel you don’t mind sacrificing.
3. Eat light: A small meal 1-2 hours before. Heavy meals make you sluggish on the table.
4. Hydrate, then pause: Drink water earlier. Limit right before to avoid bathroom breaks mid-session.
5. Skip lotions and perfumes: Oil absorbs better on clean, dry skin.
6. Remove jewelry and contact lenses: Oil can cloud contacts and tangle chains. Wear glasses that day if possible.

At the clinic/spa (pre-session)

1. Intake chat: Mention allergies (sesame, coconut, mustard), injuries, pregnancy, skin sensitivities, or if you’re on blood thinners.
2. State boundaries: If you want oil kept out of hair, or prefer extra coverage, speak up now. If you prefer a same-gender therapist, confirm.
3. Change efficiently: Put on the disposable briefs provided, or wear your old underwear. Store valuables out of the way.

During the massage

1. Trust the draping: Only the area worked on is uncovered. If any drape slips, ask for an adjustment. You’re in charge of your comfort.
2. Pressure check: Say “lighter” or “more” when needed. Your therapist expects it.
3. Heat and scent: Tell them if the room feels too warm or if the oil’s aroma is too strong. They can switch oils or ventilate.
4. Hair plan: If you opted out of scalp oil, remind the therapist before head work starts.

After the massage

1. Move slowly: Oil makes feet slick. Sit up, dangle legs, then stand.
2. Blot, don’t scrub: Use towels to blot off excess oil. Harsh scrubbing irritates skin.
3. Shower timing: Traditional advice keeps oil on for 30-90 minutes to soak in. If you need to shower there, use the clinic’s oil-friendly soap and lukewarm water.
4. Wear dark layers: Put on that old T-shirt or scarf to protect your clothes and car seat.
5. Hydrate and eat warm, light food: Think soup, kichari, or steamed veggies. Your body just switched into rest mode.

Laundry rescue (because stains happen)

• Pre-treat ASAP: Work a small amount of dish soap (degreaser) into the stain. Let sit 15-30 minutes.
• Hot water wash: Cotton can handle warmer water; synthetics need cooler cycles. Check labels.
• Skip the dryer until clean: Heat sets oil stains. Air-dry and check. Repeat pre-treat if needed.

Three real-world examples

• Resort spa Abhyanga: You change into disposable briefs, get draped with plush towels, and shower after with provided soap. You leave in a dark T-shirt and soft joggers. No fuss.
• Kerala clinic Shirodhara: Clinic gives a cotton wrap. You keep your own underwear, hair gets oiled, and you go home with a light headscarf and avoid wind for a few hours, as advised by the Vaidya.
• Urban studio Udvartana: You wear old underwear, powder gets everywhere (in a good way), and you shake off excess before a quick rinse. Clothes stay mostly clean.

Quick Checklists, Decision Aids, and Mini‑FAQ

Your 30-second packing checklist

• Old, dark underwear (or trust the disposable briefs at the spa)
• Hair tie + scarf/hat for the trip home
• Dark, loose T-shirt or shawl to protect your clothes
• Zip bag for oily items
• Glasses instead of contacts if getting Shirodhara or head work
• A change of underwear if heading somewhere after

Simple decision tree

• Hate oil in hair? Tell them upfront; choose Udvartana or body-only Abhyanga, or ask to skip scalp work.
• Very modest? Keep more clothing and ask for layered draping and limited areas. Techniques can be adapted.
• Allergy-prone? Request coconut or sunflower instead of sesame, or a patch test.
• Going back to work after? Book Udvartana or Shirodhara with protective wrap; pack a beanie and face wipes.

Mini‑FAQ

• Do I have to be nude? No. Keep underwear on. Many places provide disposable briefs. Bras are optional; old cotton is best if you keep one on.
• Can I wear a swimsuit? A simple swim brief or bikini bottom works, but oil may degrade elastic over time. Pick an old one.
• What about hijab, turban, or head coverings? Tell your therapist. They can avoid scalp oil and protect your covering with towels or a disposable cap, or you can remove it in a private room.
• Menstruating-should I cancel? Many clinics still proceed with adjusted techniques. Use a pad or menstrual cup, inform your therapist, and avoid very hot treatments if you feel crampy. If you prefer, reschedule-your call.
• Pregnant-what changes? Second and third trimester sessions are often side-lying with gentle oils and lighter pressure. Some treatments (strong heat, intense powders) are avoided. Wear what’s comfortable; the clinic will guide you.
• Will the oil ruin my clothes? If it touches them, it can. That’s why dark, old fabrics are your friend. Pre-treat quickly with dish soap and skip the dryer until stains lift.
• Is same-gender therapist standard? In traditional Ayurvedic clinics, yes. In resorts and studios, it’s by request and scheduling. Ask when booking.
• How long should I keep oil on my skin? Many practitioners recommend 30-90 minutes for absorption before a warm shower. If your skin is sensitive, rinse sooner.
• What if I’m shy about a specific area? Say so. You can opt out of chest, abdomen, glutes, or scalp work. Therapists can still deliver a great session.

Pitfalls to avoid

• Wearing your favorite lingerie-oil stains don’t care about brand names.
• Leaving contacts in for Shirodhara-one drip and they’ll blur.
• Driving off fast-oily feet can slip on pedals. Wipe thoroughly, wear socks and secure shoes.
• Overheating-rooms are warm. If you feel woozy, ask for airflow or water.

Why these norms exist (and who says so)

Ayurvedic massage is both therapeutic and cultural. Traditional hospitals and teaching programs under India’s Ministry of AYUSH train therapists to use warm oils, maintain strict draping, and prioritize privacy and consent. Kerala’s well-known Ayurveda tourism standards also push facilities to keep hygiene and modesty protocols. This is why you’ll see disposable briefs, same-gender therapists in clinics, and clear pre-session communication almost everywhere that takes Ayurveda seriously.

Next steps and troubleshooting by persona

• First-timer, anxious about modesty: Email the clinic before your appointment. Ask: “Do you provide disposable underwear and draping? Can we skip scalp oil?” Bring your own old underwear and a scarf. In session, ask for layered towels.
• Busy professional, back-to-office after: Book morning Udvartana or a shorter Abhyanga without scalp work. Wear a dark button-up and keep a lint roller and wipes in your bag. Pre-book a quick rinse if the spa allows.
• Athlete with sore legs: Wear disposable briefs or compression-style old shorts you don’t mind oiling. Ask for focus on calves and hips. Plan for a gentle stretch and a warm shower 60 minutes later.
• Allergy-prone skin: Bring your own tested oil (cold-pressed coconut or sunflower) if the clinic allows. Ask for a patch test on the forearm. Keep clothing minimal to avoid friction.
• Sensory sensitive or trauma-informed care: Request minimum talk, predictable touch cues (“I’m going to uncover your left arm now”), and extra drapes. Wear more coverage if it helps-therapists can adapt techniques to what’s accessible.

If you only do one thing: pack old, dark underwear and tell your therapist how you want to handle scalp oil. That single choice solves 90% of wardrobe stress during Ayurvedic treatments.