Licensed massage therapists must uphold high standards of skill and professionalism. In particular, maintaining superior personal and business cleanliness will protect you and your clients from illness. Apply these sanitation practice tips before, during, and after therapy sessions to help you remain healthy and deliver the best service to patrons.

5 Top Health Tips for Massage Therapists

1. Screen Clients

Ask new and returning clients to complete a health history form. As a massage therapy professional, you need to know of health risks to you or the client.

If you observe signs of illness, open wounds, or recent exposure to contagious diseases, decline service, and offer to reschedule their appointment.   

2. Clean Your Workspace Frequently

Maintaining a clean environment is a key part of a therapist’s massage training. When dusting and disinfecting waiting areas, bathrooms, and therapy rooms, wear gloves and work from ceiling to floor. 

3. Attend to Personal Hygiene

Your appearance and hygiene habits reflect the quality of service you offer. Daily baths or showers will keep you looking and smelling fresh while serving clients. Trim and clean your fingernails often to prevent dirt and germs from collecting under them.

Wash your hands and wrists thoroughly with soap and warm water often, especially before and after each therapy session, to avoid spreading germs. Brush and floss your teeth after eating and freshen your breath throughout the day.  

4. Conduct Sessions in Good Health

When you feel like you’re coming down with a cold, flu, or other health problem, reschedule your massage therapy appointments to avoid spreading the illness to clients. If another therapist is available, ask the clients if they would prefer to choose another date or keep the appointment with your colleague. 

5. Accommodate Client Requests

Clients may ask you to wear gloves or a mask during therapy sessions if you’re not doing so. Accommodate reasonable client sanitation-related requests when possible or suggest alternatives if you’re uncomfortable with what they ask. 

If your goal is to become a licensed massage therapist, complete your training at Hawaii Massage Academy in Honolulu. Since 1983, their experienced instructors have helped thousands of students complete massage therapy training and become licensed professionals. For more details about their programs, call (808) 955-4555 or visit them online.